Classroom Debates – Final Prep
Due Dates & Deliverables:
Thurs., Dec. 8 …………………..…………1) Research notes (on Pro-Con T-chart)
2) “Bibliography” listing (w/ 3+ sources)
Mon., Dec. 12 – Thur., Dec. 15 …………3) Oral presentations
Note: During the debate presentations, you may refer to a copy of your notes,
note cards, or a script to help you remember your main points; however, these
should serve as a reference only, i.e., you shouldn’t “read” to your audience.)
Debate Format:
The debates will be presented by each pro-con team in three parts:
1) Introduction/Arguments (3-4 minutes):
In this section, you will introduce your audience to your thesis (your debate issue
and position) and present your main ideas/arguments. Each argument should be
clearly stated and well-supported. Use your research findings to strengthen your
arguments. You should NOT refer to your opponent’s arguments at this time.
2) Rebuttal (2-3 minutes):
In this section, you will rebut – or disprove by evidence and argument - your
opponent’s arguments. In other words, a rebuttal is your opportunity to tell your
side of the story and correct what you believe is an inaccurate or misleading
statement by your opponent. Limit your remarks to the specific arguments made
by your opponent that you are challenging. Be clear and to the point in stating
your disagreements.
3) Concluding Remarks (1 minute):
Here, you will give your audience your final thoughts to close the debate. You
should briefly reference your main points, but not offer up any support (all
support should have been given in the arguments or rebuttal sections). Be sure
to add a ‘”so what” statement to show your audience why your position matters.
Note: Practice your presentation aloud at home so you are comfortable
presenting in front of the class. Also, be sure to refer to the grading rubric to
ensure you have all the necessary elements. Finally, please use the above time
limits as an estimate/guideline.
Debate Example: “Middle schools should require that
all students wear uniforms”
1) Introduction/Arguments:
State your debate issue and position (this is your thesis!). Then, present your
main ideas in a logical order, giving supporting arguments for each idea. Be as
specific as you can.
Mini-Example: “Middle schools should require that all students wear uniforms.
First, mandatory uniforms would help put students from different economic
backgrounds on the same social footing. Most middle-schoolers are very
concerned about fitting in and wearing the “right” clothes, but not every family
can afford to buy their kids the latest fashions. Thus, wearing a common uniform
can relieve unnecessary social stress. Studies have shown that students in
schools where uniforms are required… ”
2) Rebuttal:
Briefly restate your opponent’s main points and then disprove his/her statements
with your own arguments. Be as clear as you can and try not to simply repeat
your initial ideas.
Mini-Example: “My opponent stated that requiring school uniforms would be very
costly. However, the fact is that most families would actually save money each
year if their children wore uniforms because they would no longer have to buy
“back-to-school” clothing. Also, school uniforms can easily be handed down from
one child to another, which would result in additional savings...”
3) Concluding Remarks:
Briefly restate your thesis and main ideas; then, add a “so what” statement.
Mini-Example: “Middle schools should require that all students wear uniforms.
Such a requirement would: 1) make all students, regardless of economic
background, equal in appearance; 2) eliminate “fashion distractions” in the
classroom; 3) greatly reduce the time wasted each morning figuring out what to
wear, and 4) save families money. By making school uniforms mandatory,
middles schools will improve students’ well-being and create a more positive
learning environment…