how to write a good debate opening statement

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How To Write An Opening Statement For A Debate?

Writing a debate does not need to be a complicated task. A debate is a forum where a structured discussion is held on a particular subject matter. Here, speakers have the opportunity to make their arguments in support or otherwise of the issue at hand.

The problem is how to write an opening statement for a debate

In a debate, the opening statement is one of the essential parts of the debate. Thus in answering the question, how to write an opening statement for a debate, it should be noted that one requires significant effort to write it. It would be best if you also considered writing the opening statement in a manner that captures the attention of your audience. You can start by stating an interesting fact, a profound statistics, a quote, or any statement that has the power of stirring the curiosity and interest of the audience in your direction for the rest of your speech. Read on to learn more techniques to adopt in writing a debate.

Techniques And Styles For Writing An Opening Statement

One pattern of writing an opening statement is to start your debate by giving your audience a road map into the rest of the discourse. Using the opening statement as a strategy to achieve this requires that you have a holistic overview of what you intend to say. With this technique, you present an opening that draws the audience to the direction you want. You also have to get them curious enough to follow you through to the end of the discussion.

Another technique is to employ the weapon of storytelling. Starting with a well-scripted story that plays out real-life scenarios in the mind’s eye of your audience is necessary to get your audience interested in what you intend to say. A good story should be a perfect blend of emotions and meaning. It must be a short story that relates to the theme of the debate. A long story will be unnecessary and would take up space and time you could have used to talk about your other points and bolster your arguments.

Starting with shocking statistics is a way of getting your audience to sit upright and pay closer attention to what you have to say. It explains why statistics are often introduced into the opening statement by great speakers. The statistics should be one that is at the core of the subject matter for discussion. The other points to be discussed could focus on querying the statistics and what one should do about it. Different dimensions to the statistics used could also be extensively discussed in the debate.

One can also use a famous quote, a proven statement of fact, or a new development in the topic area of your discussion to start your speech. However, the hallmark is to secure the attention of your audience. It would be best if you got the audience to stay with you until the end of your speech.

What Do You Seek To Achieve In An Opening Statement?

There is a saying that when the purpose of a thing is not known, abuse is inevitable. Thus, it is essential to understand what you intend to achieve with your opening statement. An opening statement could serve several purposes. The question is, what should be its purpose, or what do you seek to achieve with your opening statement?

An opening statement serves to capture the attention of the audience for the rest of your speech. You use an opening statement as a means to show the reason your audience should listen to you. Otherwise, the persons could be seated in the room, but their attention would be somewhere else. Any of the above techniques, when used effectively, will help you achieve this.

You can use an opening statement to persuade your audience on your point of view while you go ahead to bolster your position in the body of the debate. In an opening statement, you give the audience a clue on how you intend to prove a seemingly outrageous statement that you just made. It is the earliest opportunity for you to present to your audience what to expect.

Another purpose of an opening statement is to prepare the mind of the members of the audience. They need to be ready for the information with which you have to feed them. If you center your speech on a controversial subject matter, then the opening statement should seek first to tackle the possible objections in their minds that that does not favor your point of view. That way, their objections are eradicated or at least weakened to make them better disposed to hear your views. In trying to achieve this purpose through your opening statement, the emphasis will be on locating loopholes in their opinions. The gaps can be easily exploited in favor of your perspective and make them more responsive as you introduce your view to them in the course of the discussion.

The Relationship Between The Opening Statement And Other Parts Of A Debate

Apart from an opening statement, there are other parts to a debate. These additional parts are as important as an opening statement because an opening statement cannot serve its purpose in isolation from the others.

The opening statement introduces the subject matter of the discussion and sets the pace for the body of the debate, where the speaker extensively discusses his views. The opening statement serves as a background for the audience to have a better understanding of the discussion.

Different types of debate

There are different types of debate. The model determines how you should write the opening statement. The different types of debates often have different structures; it is why the manner of writing an opening statement might be different for each.

Some debates are moderated by the host or another person designated for that. In this kind of debate, the speakers receive enough time to give their opening statements before the moderator starts asking them questions.

There are also town hall debates, club debates, school debates, and other variants.

General rules for a debate

There are general rules that apply to the coordination of a debate. These rules are essential for the effective coordination of the debate. It has to be observed by all the participants of the debate, including the organizers. Where participants to a debate breach a rule, it could lead to the disqualification of the participants from the debate. Thus, it is essential to bear these rules in mind as you write the speech for your debate to avoid elimination and other penalties.

All participants of a debate are required to be fair to each other in the course of the debate. Unruly behaviors and talks that seek to attack the person of other participants are not allowed. All attacks should be directed at the arguments of the adverse party.

It is a known principle that he who asserts must prove. Going by this principle, it becomes imperative for you to verify the assertions and facts you use to support your views. The application of this rule enriches the credibility and honesty of your arguments. That way, the audience is likely to be swayed in your favor.

Every debate, whether it is a social or political debate, has a formal structure that must be followed. It might also have preliminary activities that each participant has to engage in before they can participate in it. In these circumstances, a participant must comply with these requirements. He must also carry out these activities as a precondition to being a part of the debate.

Usually, in a debate, the participants are allotted time to present their views and are expected to give their speech within the specified timeframe. The essence is to introduce fairness into the debate by ensuring that the participants have the same opportunity to present their arguments. Thus, they are expected to be straightforward in their delivery to maximize the use of their time. The issue of timing should be born in mind when writing the speech. Otherwise, the speaker will end up not completing his speech before the time runs out.

It violates the rules of debating for a participant to interrupt another participant in the course of his speech. All the speakers at the debate are given their speaking slots; thus, one speaker cannot stop another halfway through his speech.

Some debates require participants to turn in their papers before time. Where this is the case, the writing of the debate paper has to be concluded earlier enough for it to be reviewed adequately before turning it in.

It is believed that the points contained here will be beneficial as you write your speech for a debate. The things you need to take note of how to write an opening statement for debate has been exposed to help you write an opening statement that achieves the right purpose.

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How to Write a Winning Debate Speech

What is a Debate?

A classroom debate involves students delivering persuasive speeches to present and support their opinions on a given subject. This activity helps develop critical thinking and communication skills, enabling students to gain a more comprehensive grasp of various topics.

Debate speeches are written according to a set of rules so a moderator can assess their effectiveness and allow others to question or challenge their statements within a formal debate.

A classroom debate is not an unruly fight or pointless argument but a structured formal conversation on a chosen topic in which two teams argue for or against it to convince the neutral moderator that they hold the stronger position.

Debating is a form of persuasive communication, and while we will be sticking to the fundamentals of how to write a debating speech, we also have a great guide to persuasive essay writing that elaborates on specific persuasive techniques.

Complete Teaching Unit on Class Debating

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This unit will guide your students to write excellent DEBATE SPEECHES and craft well-researched, constructed ARGU MENTS ready for critique from their classmates.

Furthermore, this EDITABLE UNIT will provide the TOOLS and STRATEGIES for running highly engaging CLASSROOM DEBATES.

How To Run A Classroom Debate

Before jumping in headfirst to write your debating speech, ensure you understand how a debate is run to maximise your strategy and impact when it counts.

Debates occur in many different contexts, such as public meetings, election campaigns, legislative assemblies, and as entertainment on television shows. These contexts determine the specific structure the debate will follow.

This guide provides a basic step-by-step debate structure we can comfortably run with students in a classroom. By familiarizing students with this structure, they will effortlessly transition to other debate frameworks.

Running a classroom debate can be an engaging and educational activity that helps students develop critical thinking, communication, and research skills. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to organize and facilitate a successful classroom debate:

1. Choose a Topic For Your Debate.

Also called a resolution or a motion , the topic is sometimes chosen to debate. This is usually the case in a school activity to practice debating skills.

The resolution or motion is usually centered around a true or false statement or a proposal to change the current situation. Often, the motion starts, ”This House believes that….”

Select a topic relevant to your curriculum and the students’ interests. Ensure that it is debatable and has multiple perspectives. Further down this article, you can find a list of popular classroom debating topics.

2. Form Two Debating Teams

Two teams of three speakers each are formed. These are referred to as ‘ The House for the Motion ’ or the ‘ Affirmative ’ team and ‘The House Against the Motion ’ or the ‘ Negative ’ team.

Preparation is an essential aspect of debating. The speech and debate team members will need time to research their arguments, collaborate, and organize themselves and their respective roles in the upcoming debate.

They’ll also need time to write and rehearse their speeches. The better prepared and coordinated they are as a team, the greater their chances of success in the debate.

3. Assign Roles to Students.

Each team member should have a specific role, such as speaker, researcher , or rebuttal specialist . This encourages teamwork and ensures that each student is actively involved.

4. Research and Preparation:

Allocate time for teams to research and prepare their arguments. Encourage students to use multiple sources, including books, articles, and reputable websites. Make sure you read our complete guide to powerful student research strategies.

5. Set Debate Format:

Define the debate format, including the structure of each round. Common formats include opening statements, cross-examination, rebuttals, and closing statements.

6. Establish Rules:

Set ground rules for the debate, such as time limits for each speaker, etiquette, guidelines for respectful communication, and consequences for rule violations.

7. Conduct a Practice Debate:

Before the actual debate, conduct a practice round. This helps students become familiar with the format and allows you to provide feedback on their arguments and presentation skills.
On the day of the debate, set up the classroom to accommodate the format. Ensure that each round has a clear structure, and designate a timekeeper to keep the debate on schedule.

9. Facilitate Q&A Sessions:

After each team presents their arguments, allow time for questions and cross-examination. This encourages critical thinking and engagement among the students.

10. Evaluate and Debrief:

After the debate, provide constructive feedback to each team. Discuss the strengths and weaknesses of their arguments, presentation skills, and teamwork. Also, please encourage students to reflect on what they learned from the experience.
Have a class discussion about the debate, exploring different perspectives and opinions. This can deepen students’ understanding of the topic and enhance their critical thinking skills.

Consider integrating the debate topic into future lessons or assignments. This reinforces the learning experience and allows students to delve deeper into the subject matter.

Remember to create a supportive and respectful environment throughout the debate, emphasizing the importance of listening to opposing views and engaging in constructive dialogue.

Each speaker takes a turn making their speech, alternating between the House for the Motion, who goes first, and the House Against the Motion. Each speaker speaks for a pre-agreed amount of time.

Ensure your debate is held in front of an audience (in this case, the class), and occasionally, the audience is given time to ask questions after all the speeches have been made.

Finally, the debate is judged either by moderators or by an audience vote.

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Download our Debate Organizer

Stay fousssed with this handy template to keep all your ideas organized.

How To Write A Debate

How to start a debate speech.

In highly competitive speech and debate tournaments, students are only provided the topic on the day, and limited time is allowed for preparation, but this is not recommended for beginners.

Regardless of the stakes of your classroom debate, the speechwriting process always begins with research. Thorough research will provide students with both the arguments and the supporting evidence for their position on a topic and generate forward-thinking about what their opponents might use against them.

Writing Your Introduction

The purpose of the introduction in a debate speech is to achieve several things:

Grab the attention of the audience,
Introduce the topic
Provide a thesis statement
Preview some of the main arguments.

Grab The Attention Of Your Audience With Strong Hooks

Securing the audience’s attention is crucial, and failure to do this will have a strong, negative impact on how the team’s efforts will be scored as a whole. Let’s explore three proven strategies to hook your audience and align their thinking to yours.

Introduce Your Topic With Efficiency and Effectiveness

Once the audience’s attention has been firmly grasped, it’s time to introduce the topic or the motion. This should be done straightforwardly and transparently to ensure the audience understands the topic of the debate and the position you are approaching it from.

For example, if the topic of the debate was school uniforms, the topic may be introduced with:

Provide Your Thesis Statement

A thesis statement is a concise declaration summarizing the points and arguments of your debating speech.

It presents a clear stance on a topic and guides the reader on what to expect in the content.
A good thesis statement is debatable and allows for opposing viewpoints and discussion.
It serves as a roadmap for the writer, ensuring coherence and focus in the piece.
It helps the audience understand the purpose and direction of the work from the beginning.

The thesis statement should express the student’s or the team’s position on the motion. Clearly explaining the speaker’s side of the debate. An example can be seen here.

Provide A Preview Of Your Arguments

The final part of the introduction section of a debate speech involves previewing the main points of the speech for the audience.

There is no need to go into detail with each argument here; that’s what the body of the speech is for. It is enough to provide a general thesis statement for each argument or ‘claims’ – (more on this to follow).

Previewing the arguments in a speech is especially important as the audience and judges only get one listen to a speech – unlike a text, which can be reread as frequently as the reader likes.

debate introduction examples for students

Attention grabbers task.

After explaining the different types of attention grabbers and the format for the rest of the introduction to your students, challenge them to write an example of each type of opening for a specific debate topic.

When they’ve finished writing these speech openings, discuss with the students which one best fits their chosen topic. Then, they can continue by completing the rest of the introduction for their speech using the format described above.

You might like to try a simple topic like “Homework should be banned.” you can choose from our collection further in this article.

Writing T he Body of the Speech

The body paragraphs are the real meat of the speech. They contain the in-depth arguments that make up the substance of the debate, and How well these arguments are made will determine how the judges will assess each speaker’s performance, so it’s essential to get the structure of these arguments just right.

Let’s take a look at how to do that.

How to structure an Argument

With the introduction out of the way, it’s time for the student to get down to the nitty-gritty of the debate – that is, making compelling arguments to support their case.

There are three main aspects to an argument in a debate speech. They are:

The Warrant

Following this structure carefully enables our students to build coherent and robust arguments. Ttake a look at these elements in action in the example below.

Brainstorming Arguments

Present your students with a topic and, as a class, brainstorm some arguments for and against the motion.

Then, ask students to choose one argument and, using the Claim-Warrant-Impact format, take a few moments to write down a well-structured argument that’s up to debate standard.

Students can then present their arguments to the class.

Or, you could also divide the class along pro/con lines and host a mini-debate!

Concluding a Debate Speech

The conclusion of a speech or a debate is the final chance for the speaker to convey their message to the audience. In a formal debate that has a set time limit, the conclusion is crucial as it demonstrates the speaker’s ability to cover all their material within the given time frame.

Avoid introducing new information and focus on reinforcing the strength of your position for a compelling and memorable conclusion.

A good conclusion should refer back to the introduction and restate the main position of the speaker, followed by a summary of the key arguments presented. Finally, the speaker should end the speech with a powerful image that will leave a lasting impression on the audience and judges.

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Examples of strong debate Conclusions

The Burden of the Rejoinder

In formal debates, the burden of the rejoinder means that any time an opponent makes a point for their side, it’s incumbent upon the student/team to address that point directly.

Failing to do so will automatically be seen as accepting the truth of the point made by the opponent.

For example, if the opposing side argues that all grass is pink, despite how ridiculous that statement is, failing to refute that point directly means that, for the debate, all grass is pink.

Our students must understand the burden of the rejoinder and ensure that any points the opposing team makes are fully addressed during the debate.

The Devils Advocate

When preparing to write their speech, students should spend a significant proportion of their team collaborating as a team.

One good way to practice the burden of the rejoinder concept is to use the concept of Devil’s Advocate, whereby one team member acts as a member of the opposing team, posing arguments from the other side for the speaker to counter, sharpening up their refutation skills in the process.

20 Great Debating Topics for Students

Should cell phones be allowed in schools?
Is climate change primarily caused by human activities?
Should the voting age be lowered to 16?
Is social media more harmful than beneficial to society?
Should genetically modified organisms (GMOs) be embraced or rejected?
Is the death penalty an effective crime deterrent?
Should schools implement mandatory drug testing for students?
Is animal testing necessary for scientific and medical advancements?
Should school uniforms be mandatory?
Is censorship justified in certain circumstances?
Should the use of performance-enhancing drugs be allowed in sports?
Is homeschooling more beneficial than traditional schooling?
Should the use of plastic bags be banned?
Is nuclear energy a viable solution to the world’s energy needs?
Should the government regulate the fast food industry?
Is social inequality a result of systemic factors or individual choices?
Should the consumption of meat be reduced for environmental reasons?
Is online learning more effective than traditional classroom learning?
Should the use of drones in warfare be banned?
Is the legalization of marijuana beneficial for society?

These topics cover a range of subjects and offer students the opportunity to engage in thought-provoking debates on relevant and impactful issues.

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Debating strategies for students.

Research and preparation are essential to ensure good performance in a debate. Students should spend as much time as possible drafting and redrafting their speeches to maximize their chances of winning. However, a debate is a dynamic activity, and victory cannot be assured by pre-writing alone.

Students must understand that the key to securing victory lies in also being able to think, write (often in the form of notes), and respond instantly amid the turmoil of the verbal battle. To do this, students must understand the following keys to victory.

When we think of winning a debate, we often think of blinding the enemy with the brilliance of our verbal eloquence. We think of impressing the audience and the judges alike with our outstanding oratory.

What we don’t often picture when we imagine what a debate winner looks like is a quiet figure sitting and listening intently. But being a good listener is one of our students’ most critical debating skills.

If students don’t listen to the other side, whether by researching opposing arguments or during the thrust of the actual debate, they won’t know the arguments the other side is making. Without this knowledge, they cannot effectively refute the opposition’s claims.

Read the Audience

In terms of the writing that happens before the debate takes place, this means knowing your audience.

Students should learn that how they present their arguments may change according to the demographics of the audience and/or judges to whom they will be making their speech.

An audience of retired school teachers and an audience of teen students may have very different responses to the same arguments.

This applies during the actual debate itself too. If the student making their speech reads resistance in the faces of the listeners, they should be prepared to adapt their approach accordingly in mid-speech.

Practice, Practice, Practice

The student must practice their speech before the debate. There’s no need to learn it entirely by heart. There isn’t usually an expectation to memorize a speech entirely, and doing so can lead to the speaker losing some of their spontaneity and power in their delivery. At the same time, students shouldn’t spend the whole speech bent over a sheet of paper reading word by word.

Ideally, students should familiarize themselves with the content and be prepared to deliver their speech using flashcards as prompts when necessary.

Another important element for students to focus on when practising their speech is making their body language, facial expressions, and hand gestures coherent with the verbal content of their speech. One excellent way to achieve this is for the student to practice delivering their speech in a mirror.

And Finally…

Debating is a lot of fun to teach and partake in, but it also offers students a valuable opportunity to pick up some powerful life skills.

It helps students develop a knack for distinguishing fact from opinion and an ability to assess whether a source is credible or not. It also helps to encourage them to think about the other side of the argument.

Debating helps our students understand others, even when disagreeing with them. An important skill in these challenging times, without a doubt.

Debating Teaching Strategies

Clearly Define Debate Roles and Structure when running speech and debate events: Clearly define the roles of speakers, timekeepers, moderators, and audience members. Establish a structured format with specific time limits for speeches, rebuttals, and audience participation. This ensures a well-organized and engaging debate.

Provide Topic Selection and Preparation Time: Offer students a range of debate topics, allowing them to select a subject they are passionate about. Allocate ample time for research and preparation, encouraging students to gather evidence, develop strong arguments, and anticipate counterarguments.
Incorporate Scaffolded Debating Skills Practice: Before the actual debate, engage students in scaffolded activities that build their debating skills. This can include small group discussions, mock debates, or persuasive writing exercises. Provide feedback and guidance to help students refine their arguments and delivery.
Encourage Active Listening and Note-taking during speech and debate competitions: Emphasize the importance of active listening during the debate. Encourage students to take notes on key points, supporting evidence, and persuasive techniques used by speakers. This cultivates critical thinking skills and prepares them for thoughtful responses during rebuttals.
Facilitate Post-Debate Reflection and Discussion: After the debate, facilitate a reflection session where students can share their thoughts, lessons learned, and insights gained. Encourage them to analyze the strengths and weaknesses of their arguments and engage in constructive dialogue. This promotes metacognitive skills and encourages continuous improvement.

By following these tips, teachers can create a vibrant and educational debate experience for their students. Through structured preparation, active engagement, and reflective discussions, students develop valuable literacy and critical thinking skills that extend beyond the boundaries of the debate itself.

A COMPLETE UNIT FOR TEACHING OPINION WRITING

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How to Write a Debate Speech in English | Format, and Examples

Every student has to write a debate at some point in school, college, or university and if you don’t know about the methods and steps to write a debate speech, you won’t write an effective debate speech to increase your chance of success. Following a proper structure and format in debate writing is essential for a good debate to convenience the audience. There are some tips and methods to write an effective debate speech and by setting a tone and correct words choice and sentences, you can grab the judge’s and the audience’s attention. So, are you searching for pro tips on how to write a debate speech in English? Let’s dive into this article and get complete knowledge about debate writing.

Before diving into the steps of debate writing, it’s necessary to understand debate speech definition and debate speech format.

Debate Speech Definition

A debate speech is a formal discussion on a specific topic between two opposing sides or groups. One side discusses in a favor of the given topic or title, while the other side speaks against it or disagrees with the first side. The main purpose of a debate speech is to convince the judges and audience that your opinion is right. In debate speech, you need to express your views in a specific format and make your opponents impress by good debate writing skills.

Debate Speech Format

You can follow the following pattern for a debate speech.

Opening Statements and Explanation

This section consists of the opening sentences by using three arguments with explaining questions.

Pro Tema – Up to 5 minutes
Con Team – Up to 2 minutes
Con Team – Up to 5 minutes
Pro Team – Up to 2 minutes

Rebuttals (No new Arguments Here)

In this section, the debaters repeat the deponent arguments and evaluate what is wrong with his/her position.

Pro Team – Up to 3 minutes
Con Team – Up to 3 minutes

Debate Summary

In the summary, debates summarize their positions after detailed arguments and discussions with the opponents. In addition, the debaters also say why their position is the best.

Finally, each group will be assumed to answer the questions up to 20 minutes long session. For instance, you can look at the following debate speech template to get an idea of the debate speech structure.

Debate Speech Format PDF

How to Write a Debate (6 Steps)

Structuring and writing your debate correctly will increase your chance of success. By following the 6 easy steps below will help you win the debate competition. Without further ado let’s dive into the following steps.

Begin With a Strong Opening Lines
Define the Topic
Signposting

Step #1: Begin With a Strong Opening Lines

Every good speech and discussion starts with a strong sentence. Remember the first impression is the last impression, hence start your debate with a strong opening line that can help you impress the audience and the judge immediately. For example, you can start your debate by asking an open-ended question, tell a story, state an amazing fact or say a powerful quotation.

Step #2: Define the Topic

When you started your debate with a strong sentence and catch the audience’s attention, in the next step you need to make the subject clear to your listeners. You need to state the topic and your group’s position on the topic to help the audience comprehend the side you are going to argue about.

For Example:

“Ladies and gentlemen, today I would like to talk to you about the education system. The education system that we have followed in our country has been reformed many times. Computer literacy at the age of 13 can help in the child’s future studies. Here, I will argue that the problem is the pandemic, besides being stressful, are indecisive in assessing student learning.”

Step #3: Signposting

Signposting may seem irritating and avoidable. If you are word-addict it can even seem like it’s confusing the flow of your otherwise clear and lyrical speech. However, it’s totally important in the format of a good debate speech. You might think that you write a good debate speech, but remember the audience isn’t you to judge. They don’t how much idea about the topic as you have and they might get bored for a few moments in your introduction and then get completely lost. This is why signposting is necessary for debate.

This is a good way to remind your audience of what you are discussing and where you are up to in your speech. Hence, after your introduction add a few points that tell the audience that how many points you are going to deliver and in what order you are delivering them.

Also Read : Essential Transition Words and Phrases for Writing

Step #4: Rebuttal

Have you heard that sometimes the best offense is a good defense? In a professional debate, the most compelling part is usually when one side takes one of the arguments of the opponent and then cuts it to pieces. Indeed, it’s the most difficult part of any debate speech to finish correctly. In a debate speech Rebutting arguments forces you to think thoroughly on the spot. You have a little time like 30 to 40 seconds to take arguments that your opponent has spent a lot of time researching and edging and convincingly oppose it.

There are some approaches that you can use while rebutting in a debate speech and make the challenge a little less dismay. These include the following:

Pre-research thoroughly
What’s the point
Economic Challanges
Say your own arguments

Step #5: Arguments

The argument is the most significant part of a debate speech. To make it clear for you, we have divided this down into four simple subtopics.

1. Decide what to argue:

If you have researched the topics and have good information, then a lot of arguments will come to your mind. It always requires good research to come up with talking points. Consider the issue. You can research online, read books and novels for good ideas. When you have good knowledge of the topic then the right arguments will come to your mind no matter how strong your position is.

2. The Layout :

Writing an argument is the same as writing a body paragraph for an essay. You can start each argument by signposting for instance, “Initially, I want to argue….” and then follow up with a sentence shortly. After this, you need to talk in detail about the topic by giving some facts and statics to constitute what you are saying, and then at the end link neatly back to the title of the debate to make clear to the audience that you are not only giving a passionate rant but instead making a carefully calculated point that related in with a general thesis statement.

3. Find Evidence:

Embedding the right evidence into your debate speech makes you more conceivable, but using the wrong and irrelevant evidence from a wrong source leaves you vulnerable to be attacked by the opposition. Hence, it’s necessary to search beforehand and find the right evidence.

4. Persuasive Strategies:

Remember you can be as persuasive and colorful in debate as you write a persuasive piece. Don’t use harsh words or insult your opponents and don’t use the sense of humor where it’s not important, but other than the obvious limitation you can use as many persuasive strategies as you can.

Step #6: How to Conclude

The conclusion is the result of your writing and is one of the most important parts of a debate speech. It should sum the points you have written in the whole parts of your writing, and by delivering the conclusion of your debate the listeners or readers should feel as if they have gained the result of whatever you have written in the body.

Writing a conclusion for a debate speech is the same as writing a conclusion for an essay. In the link below you can read more about how to conclude a debate.

How to Write the Best Concluding Paragraph

Debate Speech Sample in English

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How to write an opening and closing statement 7.2, how to write an opening & closing statement.

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How to Make an Opening Statement in a Debate

James wiley, 27 jun 2018.

Making a strong opening statement in a debate is a skill that can be advantageous in a variety of careers. Lawyers need to make strong, compelling opening statements every day. Businessmen giving important presentations need to start with an opening statement or summary that captivates their audience and gains enthusiasm for their ideas. There are several tips and strategies to consider when making a strong opening statement in a debate.

Explore this article

Plan it Out
Write Your Opening Statement
Practice, Practice and More Practice
Deliver With Confidence
Keep Your Energy Level Up

1 Plan it Out

Plan out your opening statement before the debate. Go over the main points in your argument and determine the ones that should be summarized in the debate. If you're a visual learner, put a large piece of paper on your wall and keep your notes there. Start with the topic of the debate in the middle of the paper and use the rest of the space to list out the main points you need to go over. Once you're done with this process, condense your notes and put the main ideas on notecards.

2 Write Your Opening Statement

Write out your opening statement, making sure it covers the most important points of your debate and provides brief description of what you will be discussing. The opening statement should be no more than two or three minutes long, as a longer statement may begin to lose the interest of the audience.

3 Practice, Practice and More Practice

Even if you're a seasoned presenter, practicing your opening statement before you jump into your debate is critical to your success. Start by practicing in front of a mirror. Try delivering your statement without notes. This will help you keep your head up and get you ready for eye contact. As soon as you've mastered practicing in front of the mirror, it's time to find an audience. This can be a chance to have a friend listen to your opening statement, adjust the working and practice tone and phrasing. It's also a good idea to use a timer in order to keep you on-track and within the given guidelines.

4 Deliver With Confidence

Deliver your opening statement with confidence. Look at the audience rather than down at your speech. Gaining the interest of the audience is arguably the most important aspect of the opening statement. Speak with conviction and expression; avoid a monotonous tone.

5 Keep Your Energy Level Up

Maintain your level of energy and enthusiasm from the start to the end of your opening statement. You might want to let the energy build to a crescendo for the finish in order to leave the audience on an especially strong note.

1 Toolbox: Making Opening Statements

About the Author

James Wiley graduated from Providence College in 2009 as a double major in global studies and Spanish. Wiley's capstone thesis paper was published in the Providence College database. He has also competed in international script-writing competitions and coauthored a pilot which placed in the top 15 percent of international entries over the past year.

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What Are Examples Of Debate Opening Statements? Killer Debate Opening Statements

Crafting a debate is simple. A debate is a structured holding of a specific subject. Speakers have the chance to present their ideas that propose or go against the subject matter. However, coming up with a debate opening statement is a challenging task.

An opening statement is a crucial part of a debate. It offers the first impression to the audience and prepares them for the shreds of evidence to be presented eventually in the debate.

If you are a beginner in debates, do not beat so hard on yourself for not knowing how to write an opening statement. The article here will guide you accordingly on how to be a star in debate opening statements.

Elements Of Opening Statements

Whether a trial or a school debate, a debate needs to contain the following essential elements.

The opening statement should entail a theme that acts as a framework for any evidence presented. The theme needs to align perfectly with the topic evidence and support your debate side.

Most times, theme expression might be difficult with no backed-up arguments. Arguments are not allowed in opening statements.

As long as the opening statement remains non-argumentative, debate rules might allow you; to state the theme of the case at the beginning and end of an opening statement.

The most significant way of developing an opening statement is by using a single summary sentence. Employ a non-lawyer tone when doing that.

Present the heart of the case effectively by answering the question, what really happened here?

Present the scene

After introducing the theme of the case, this is the time to present the scene. Work on your framework that you earlier presented.

You might illustrate the scene in a story and present people and papers as they naturally align with the case theme. Stir up the audience’s attention and make them look forward to it as the debate progresses.

No arguments

The debate audience cannot generate opinions until all the pieces of evidence are laid out. As mentioned above, it is improper to bring in arguments during opening statements.

How can a debate participant introduce his or her case without arguing? You can manage through this by ensuring your opening statement properly presents what the laid-out evidence proves.

It would help if you did not express your opinions in an opening statement nor send attacks to the opponent side.

All you need to succeed without arguing is to assemble your evidence and facts appropriately.

To pass this test, ask yourself this question; are you effectively describing the presented evidence or rather drawing a conclusion from it?

The description should be part of the opening statement. The conclusion belongs to the closing argument.

Despite arguments being non-permissible in debate opening statements, you still need to be persuasive. To make your debate part fascinating, describe your evidence results to your audience.

The facts will firmly argue the case. There will be no need for arguments when you perfectly fit your facts and evidence.

Deal with all facts

Is it important to expose the “bad” factual information in your opening statement? It is quite wise to address even the harmful information before your opponent side does it for you.

By presenting both the bad and good information, you might earn more credits from the audience.

You might alternatively wait and see how the debate activities will flow. Most times, the audience does not expect a negative opinion about your debate evidence.

You can go along with the middle ground and spend few moments discussing the damaging information. Or, you might pass through the positive evidence first and then address the harmful facts. Try to emphasize their less importance to the debate subject.

Exaggeration

The debate opening statement should be straightforward. Avoid beating about the bush. Nonetheless, it would be best if you leveraged exaggeration in some debate cases.

For example, you might take keen on the other’s party pleadings. There might be the use of exaggerated facts that lack suitable proof.

Your opening statement might be highly effective if you move around the debate space. It applies to the sections aligning with the set rules . You can employ movements when pitching out a new different point.

It will grab more attention from the audience and keep them intact to your debate case. For critical points, you might get closer to the audience for stronger emphasis.

However, do not overdo the movements. Do not let the audience grasp more of your movements than your debate points. Move around effectively. You will act as a threat when you invade the audience’s space.

Tips For Writing Opening Statements

Now that we know the crucial elements of debate opening statements like the back of our hands let us jump in for several tips on writing opening statements.

Note down your introductory remarks

You need to be aggressive in your opening statement. During the first minutes of your opening statement, the audience is more alert. Create a good impression and win their attention.

You might give remarks of a summary of your points and proclaim your theme.

Mention your actors and places

At this part, you might want to introduce your things; papers or witnesses. It helps in making the evidence real. The audience might likely engage and believe in your tale.

Define and identify your disputes

It would be helpful to define your points of contention to the audience. You may outline, in simple language, the contents, and reactions of the complaint. Portray a general aspect of the conflict without attacking the other party.

Tell a story

The story section is the body of your opening statement. Gather around simple words and sentences when telling the story. Most times, the audience gets facts from this part .

Also, the stories need to be persuasive to stick to the audience’s minds. They should make sense with the evidence laid out. And make the audience anticipate the debate progress.

Point out your weaknesses

Discussing your weaknesses at the beginning might make you look honest. However, try to shade some positive attitude when your opponent brings that up.

Keep the section brief. Only include weaknesses that might interfere when showcasing your supporting evidence and facts.

Conclude your opening statement

You can conclude your opening statement by summarizing your theme and asking the audience for a particular decision.

Finish off your opening statement with a confident stature. Be sure the audience knows your stand on the topic and their remaining role to play.

Standard Rules For A Debate

There are standard rules you need to comply with when running a debate . Regardless of being an organizer, or a participant, you need to follow them strictly.

You may get yourself disqualified in case you breach these laws. Thus, it would be best to have a clear grasp of the debate rules to avoid penalties.

Here are the rules;

Speak and treat each other fairly when in the debate. You are not allowed to use unethical language. You might save all the attacks for the arguments of the other party.

Typically, a political or legal debate awards its participants a specified time to present their views. You need to plan your ideas accordingly and pitch them out within this restricted timeline. Most opening statements take around ten to twenty minutes in front of the audience.

The ideal importance of the allocated time is to create fairness among the debate participants during their presentation. Therefore, you need to be straightforward when delivering your points and leverage your time .

Otherwise, your speech might be incomplete when the time runs out. It is a violation for a debate participant to interrupt another one during their speech. Every person has his or her time to present his or her views.

Debates do vary. Some of them might require them to hand over their papers in time. If this case applies to you, conclude your paper early for impressive reviews.

A Short Example Of An Opening Statement

Below is an outline sample of an opening statement for your debate.

The motion statement for the debate for this example is, technology harms our future .

Your opening statement might be:

Honorable Chair, our motion today is, technology harms our future. I take this opportunity to present my views against the motion.

As we all know, there is always a status of balance for everything. Technology, too, comes along with its benefits and harms. With its dynamic state, it has brought improvements to our education alongside health systems.

With all these vast benefits, how can technology be harmful to our future? Remember to use persuasive language and a confident tone. Also, you can back up your views with relevant quotes.

I believe the information presented above will assist you in crafting your opening statements for the coming debates.

It would be best to bear the tips above in mind. If you organize your points and evidence effectively within the allotted time, nothing will stand in your way from winning the debate.

Is Capital Gazette Liberal Or Conservative? Truth Is Finally Out

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Debate Writing

Debate Writing - A Comprehensive Writing Guide

14 min read

What is Debate Writing?

A debate is a formal contest of argumentation where two opposing teams defend and attack a given resolution. Similarly, it is also a persuasive manner of speaking to convert one’s opinion into your viewpoint.

Here, the speaker either speaks for or against a particular topic being discussed. Moreover, it is the process of preparing and writing the debate before its formal presentation.

Features of Debate Writing

The following are the main features of debate writing.

Informative - A good debate must provide complete information and facts. It is supposed to inform and educate people with the help of logical reasoning.
Well-reasoned - The arguments discussed in a debate must be logical, relevant, competent, and well-explained.
Persuasive - A debate must emphasize strong arguments to convince the people.
Orderly - A debate must present the facts in a structured and organized form. It should also follow a specific format.
Dynamic - In a debate, two teams present opposing arguments. Similarly, all the important points must be questioned and answered by each team member.

Types of Debate

The following is a detailed description of common debating types that are practiced on various occasions.

Team Policy Debate - It consists of two teams, each with two debaters. The main aim is to present a huge amount of data coherently.
Cross-examination Debate - It is considered a period between speeches. Here, the opponents ask each other to clarify and understand the points based on evidence.
Lincoln-Douglas Debate - It is a one-on-one and an open-style debate. Here, the debaters focus on arguing for or against a topic persuasively and logically.
Spontaneous Argumentation - Includes two teams that argue on a specific idea, but it does not require much research work. Similarly, this debate focuses more on presentation than content.
Public Forum Debate - It includes arguments on controversial topics. Moreover, these are used to test the argumentation, cross-examination, and refutation skills of the debaters.
Parliamentary Debate - It consists of two teams, one called the government and the other called the opposition team. The Government team proposes a motion, and the Opposition team argues against it.

If you want to learn more about the different debating types, head to over comprehensive blog on types of debates.

Debate Writing Format

The debate writing for middle or high school follows the same format structure. Here, we have mentioned a detailed format for you to get an idea of the parts of a debate.

Check out the given debate writing template to get help with structuring your debate.

Debate Writing Template

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How to Start a Debate?

When starting the debate writing process, the question “ How to write a debate introduction?… ” could come off as a daunting one, but don’t worry.

Here are some easy steps for you to write a compelling debate introduction.

1. Impressive greeting and strong opening sentence:

Greet your audience with enthusiasm, capturing their attention with a compelling opening statement that sets the tone for your debate.

2. Tell a personal story:

Connect emotionally by sharing a relevant personal anecdote that humanizes the topic, making it relatable and engaging.

3. State an amazing Fact:

Introduce a surprising or impressive fact related to your debate topic to pique interest and establish credibility.

4. Use a powerful quotation:

Incorporate a thought-provoking quote that aligns with your argument, adding depth and authority to your speech.

5. Ask a rhetorical question:

Pose a rhetorical question to stimulate critical thinking among your audience, encouraging them to ponder the issue at hand.

6. State a problem:

Clearly articulate the problem or challenge associated with your debate topic, highlighting its significance and relevance.

7. Share your opinion about the topic:

Express your stance on the matter, providing a concise preview of your argument and setting the stage for the forthcoming points in your debate speech.

How to Write a Debate?

Following are the steps you can stick to for writing a debate speech that lets you stand out from the competition:

1. Understand the Debate

The first of many steps in debate writing is understanding its nature. Here, both teams will be given a topic, and they will choose an affirmative or negative stance.

2. Research the Topic Thoroughly

Brainstorm and research the topic thoroughly to understand all the aspects of the debate. Make a list of critical points and use credible sources to cover them in your key arguments.

3. Develop a Debate Outline

Develop a basic debate speech outline that consists of three main sections. It includes an introduction, body, and conclusion that are discussed below in detail.

It is the first section of the outline that includes an attention grabber. Introduce your topic and present the context with the help of a thesis statement . Also, provide a brief overview of the students’ arguments to understand the direction of the debate.

It is the main section of the debate that discusses the key arguments in detail. Moreover, it further includes logical reasoning and evidence to support the thesis.

The conclusion is the last chance to demonstrate significant ideas. It summarizes the main body by adding emotion and drama to the words and includes a strong closing sentence.

4. Writing the Debate

Start writing the final draft of your debate. Mention the crucial elements of persuasion, which are ethos, pathos, and logos. These are used to explain the effects of the resolution in the real world.

Also, use transition words to maintain a logical flow between paragraphs. Lastly, edit and proofread your work to avoid plagiarism, grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors.

Here is a great example of a well-written debate introduction:

If you’re thinking, “ How to write a debate greeting? ”, take a thorough look at the detailed steps below:

If you have the question, “ How to write a debate against the motion? ” in mind, look at this step-by-step procedure below:

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How to End the Debate?

End the debate by making sure that you have included the following elements. It will help you assess the credibility of your debate.

Does your debate start with an interesting greeting?
Does it provide original content, personal experience, and a call to action?
Does the debate follow a proper format structure?
Does it include the correct sentence structure?
Does it maintain logical transitions to flow ideas from one paragraph to another?
Have you proofread or revised it for common mistakes such as spelling, grammar, and punctuation?
Does the debate mention your opinion about the given topic?
Does the debate end with a powerful conclusion sentence to leave a lasting impact on the audience?

Debate Writing Tips and Tricks

Here are some amazing debate tips and tricks for you to write a perfect debate:

It is better to know and prepare for a debate before starting it
Conduct thorough research work to collect relevant data and draft creative arguments about the topic
A writer should think relatively to identify the validity of significant claims
Try to understand the formal debate through a variety of personal experiences
Support the arguments with examples and evidence to make them more credible and authentic
Also, consider the perspective of the judges and audience while making a critical argument
Always structure your speech while keeping the time limits in mind
Do not always disagree with the opponent’s arguments. Instead, you should take notes and think logically
Build your case by keeping in mind all the possible objections that others can raise
Never make the mistake of introducing new arguments in your closing section

Advanced Techniques for Debate Writing

Below are some easy debating techniques to write a primary and high school debate.

Introduce the topic at the beginning of the debate and form an opinion about it.
Know your audience to adjust your argument according to them.
Assign the two sides as affirmatives and negatives.
Take enough time to research the case and the vocabulary used for it.
Organize your opinion and present supporting facts to persuade the audience.
Follow a basic debate structure that includes the following period.
Get an idea about the opponent’s arguments and advance your research by weakening them.
Make a judgment based on the audience’s votes and your opinion about the arguments.
Connect to the audience emotionally by presenting examples, evidence, and personal experiences.
Incorporate simple, well-timed humor to engage and emphasize your argument effectively

Debate Writing Examples

Check out the following examples of debate writing to get a better idea of the concept.

Debate Example for Ks2

Debate Writing Class 6

Debate Writing Class 7

Debate Writing Class 8

Debate Writing Class 9

Debate Writing Class 11 PDF

Debate Writing Class 12

Debate Writing Example on Online Classes

If you want inspiration from more examples on various debate topics, visit our comprehensive debate examples blog!

Debate Writing Topics for Students

The following are some impressive debate writing prompts for students to get started.

All schools should conduct compulsory drug testing on their students
Middle and high schools must ban sex education
Is it ethical to move in before getting married?
Academic institutes should ban smoking on college premises
Peer pressure is harmful to students
High schools should provide daycare services to students who have children
The government should develop nuclear energy for commercial use
Celebrities can get away with crime more easily than non-celebrities
Cell phones should not be used in classrooms
Money motivates people more than any other factor in the workplace

Head over to our list of debate topics to choose from a wide range of unique debate writing ideas.

To sum it up, This comprehensive guide to debate writing will help you write a perfect one for your high school or college. We’ve covered all the essential details one would need to craft a winning debate.

However, if you think that you could use a helping hand to perfect your debate writing game, we’ve got you covered.

You can get help from our speech writing service to solve your debate writing worries. Our writing experts will deliver you comprehensive and well-composed debates at rates that won’t break the bank.

Simply reach out to our reliable essay writing service , and we’ll take care of all your writing-related problems.

Write Essay Within 60 Seconds!

Cathy has been been working as an author on our platform for over five years now. She has a Masters degree in mass communication and is well-versed in the art of writing. Cathy is a professional who takes her work seriously and is widely appreciated by clients for her excellent writing skills.

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Legal Writing

How to Write an Opening Statement

Last Updated: April 2, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Clinton M. Sandvick, JD, PhD . Clinton M. Sandvick worked as a civil litigator in California for over 7 years. He received his JD from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1998 and his PhD in American History from the University of Oregon in 2013. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 792,835 times.

An opening statement is the most important points in a trial and it provides an attorney with an opportunity to engage with the jury about their case. An opening statement should always include an introduction; a body, which includes a story and a discussion of disputes and weaknesses; and a conclusion.

Preparing to Write

Step 1 Identify and understand the purposes of your opening statement.

Present a clear picture of the case . Your opening statement is one of the only times at trial you will be able to tell a complete, uninterrupted story. After your opening statement, the case will unfold in bits and pieces and may seem unorganized to the jurors.
Arouse the interest of your jury . You want the jury to be engaged and interested in the case. If they are not, you may find your jury getting bored and becoming inattentive during your presentation of witnesses and evidence.
Build rapport with your jurors . You want the jurors to like you, as you will ultimately ask them to decide the case in your favor. You want to speak to them as the intelligent people they are, and you want to be sincere in the beliefs you convey.

Step 2 Identify and understand what content belongs in your opening statement.

Discuss the facts of your case . Your opening statement should be limited to a discussion of the anticipated evidence and what the main issues are. You must not exaggerate or misstate your evidence, you must not refer to inadmissible evidence, and you must not discuss matters that will not be a part of your own case.
Avoid arguing during your opening statement .Because the point of your opening statement is to introduce the jury to your case, you do not want to turn your opening statement into a series of legal arguments. So long as you are assisting the jury in understanding your evidence, your comments should be permissible. However, once you begin asking the jury to make inferences, interpret facts in your favor, and/or resolve disputes, you are most likely making impermissible arguments.
Avoid discussing the law in detail during your opening statement . Your opening statement can most likely have a brief introduction to the legal issues on which your case depends. However, you should avoid discussing how the law should be interpreted, and you should avoid applying any of the facts of your case to the law.

Step 3 Identify and understand your audience and what your tone should be.

Writing Your Opening Statement

Consider the following example: "On January 23, 2001, Chris McGuigan walked into Riverdale Hospital through the front door to have a minor operation to remove a growth on her arm. One week later, on January 30, she was carried out of the back door dead. What happened in that short week to turn a routine operation into a life and death struggle, and why it never should have happened, is what this case is all about."

Step 2 Introduce your actors, places, and things.

Consider this good example: "At 9:00, Jim McCutcheon left the steak house, and got into his car to head home. The car was in good condition, and Jim was alert, sober and not at all tired. He had drunk two beers with his dinner, but was still in full control of his faculties. He would not have driven if he had been feeling any effects from the beer. Jim won’t even drive with a cell phone on." [9] X Research source

Look at this example to see how to effectively summarize your case and ask the jury for a verdict: "The bottom line is that the evidence will show that the defendant knew what he was doing when he killed Boyd Farnam. He killed Boyd for revenge - an eye for an eye - because he blamed Boyd for the death of his daughter. The people of this state will therefore ask you at the close of the evidence to find him guilty of murder." [11] X Research source

Practicing Your Opening Statement

Step 1 Prepare your speech for the day of the trial.

Write your opening statement exactly as you want to present it;
Reduce it to a general outline; then
Reduce it one last time to a key word outline that you may or may not use during your opening statement itself.

Step 2 Practice your opening statement in front of an audience or in front of a mirror.

Writing Help

Expert Q&A

Be confident and deliver the opening statement you prepared and practiced. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0
Keep your opening statement short and sweet. Depending on the complexity of your case, your opening statement may be longer or shorter than 15 minutes. The closer you can get to a 15 minute opening statement, the better off you will be. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

State and federal law will dictate exactly what can and cannot be said during an opening statement, so be sure to conform to the necessary rules when writing and delivering your opening statement. Thanks Helpful 10 Not Helpful 5

↑ https://www.americanbar.org/groups/litigation/resources/newsletters/trial-evidence/five-tips-engaging-opening-statements/
↑ https://www.law.indiana.edu/instruction/tanford/web/reference/04open.pdf
↑ https://www.americanbar.org/news/abanews/publications/youraba/2017/july-2017/10-tips-for-effective-opening-and-closing-arguments/
↑ https://www.americanbar.org/groups/litigation/resources/newsletters/trial-evidence/tips-developing-effective-opening-statement/
↑ https://www.howtoseparate.ca/10-preparing-court/105-opening-statement

About This Article

To write an opening statement, start with your introductory remarks that summarize the case, state your theme, and intrigue the jurors. Then, go on to introduce your client, as well as any other witnesses involved in the case. Next, identify the main points of contention in the case and tell the jury your story of what happened from your client's point of view. You should also briefly mention any weaknesses in your case to lessen their impact when your opponent brings them up. Finally, conclude your opening statement by summarizing the theme of your case and asking the jury for a specific verdict. To learn how to rehearse and deliver your opening statement, scroll down! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Complete Guide to Debating: How to Improve your Debating Skills

August 1, 2018 - Gini Beqiri

Debating can look intimidating from the sidelines, with speakers appearing confident, passionate and unwavering, but it consists of skills that anybody can learn. Debating may not be something that you encounter in your everyday work but these skills can be incredibly valuable. In this article we provide a guide to the basics of debating.

What is debating?

A debate is a structured contest over an issue or policy. There are two sides – one supporting, one opposing.

Benefits of debating include:

Allowing you to think about aspects and perspectives you may not have considered.
Encourages you to speak strategically.
Improving public speaking skills .
Learning how to create a persuasive argument.
When you have to argue against your personal view you realise that there are two sides to the argument.

Debating examples

The U.K. Prime Minister, Theresa May, answers questions:

This example video shows Theresa May answering questions from MPs in the House of Commons. Notice her strong debating skills and how she answers difficult questions under pressure.

Watch the full video here: Prime Minister’s Questions: 16 May 2018

Debate structure

There are multiple formats a debate can follow, this is a basic debate structure:

A topic is chosen for each debate – this is called a resolution or motion. It can be a statement, policy or idea. The motion is usually a policy which changes the current state of affairs or a statement which is either truth or false. The motion typically starts with “This House…”
The Affirmative team support the statement
The Negative team oppose the statement
Sometimes you will be asked to take a position in the debate but in other debates you will be allocated your position.
Teams are provided with time to prepare – usually one hour
Each speaker presents for a set amount of time
Speakers alternate between the teams, usually a speaker in the Affirmative team starts, followed by a Negative speaker, then the second Affirmative speaker presents, followed by the second Negative speaker etc.
The debate is then judged.
There may be an audience present but they are not involved in the debate

Once you have learned how to debate in one format you can easily switch to another.

Roles of the speakers

Each speaker must typically do the following:

First Affirmative

Contextualise the debate – clearly set out your team’s interpretation of the topic and the significant issues they disagree with.
Provide definitions if necessary.
Outline the team line and the team split – this is where you outline your team’s case and summarise the way your arguments have been divided between your speakers.
Provide 2-3 arguments supporting the motion.

First Negative

Clearly state your definition
Provide your arguments as to why this is the superior definition
Rebut the Affirmative’s arguments supporting their definition
Outline a team line and team split.
Rebut the arguments made by the First Affirmative.
Deliver 2-3 arguments against the motion.

Second Affirmative

If needed, resolve any definitional issues.
Rebut the First Negative’s arguments.
Deliver 2-3 arguments supporting the motion.

Second Negative

Rebut the arguments made by the Affirmative team up to this point, with a focus on the Second Affirmative’s arguments.

Third Affirmative

Rebut specific issues raised by Second Negative and defend any other important attacks on your team’s case.
Conclude your speech with a brief summary (1-2 minutes) of your team’s case. You should include the key issues which you and the Negative team disagreed on during this.
You can introduce new material but this is interpreted as poor team planning.

Third Negative

This is the same structure as the Third Affirmative.

There are many variations of the three against three debate, a commonly known one is Points of Information. This is used a lot in university debates . During a speech the opposition is allowed to ask a question or make a point.

They stand up and say “point of information” or “on that point” etc. The speaker can choose to accept or reject the point. If accepted, the point of information can last around 15 seconds and the speaker can ask for it to stop at any time.

Debate definitions

Younger debaters tend to waste time defining terms so you must first decide whether you need to define a term. Ask yourself: will my speech be confusing if I don’t define this term? Could the opposition misinterpret what I mean without a definition? For example, the motion could be “we should ban plastic straws”. It’s clear what “plastic straws” are but what does “ban” mean?

Two factors which determine the definition of the debate:

1. Context – what is happening in the area that relates to this issue? For example, maybe the government of a country is debating banning smoking in public buildings and you decide to define the term “passive smoking” during the debate. If a significant event related to the topic has occurred then it should be the focus of the debate, for instance, a shocking report may have recently been revealed in the media showing the widespread effects of second-hand smoking.

2. Spirit of the motion – topics are chosen for a reason so what sort of debate was imagined when the topic was chosen? Looking at the spirit of the motion will ensure that you pick a definition that will produce a well-balanced and important debate.

If the topic is vague then you will have more choice of definitions. You have a duty to pick a clear definition and one that will create a good debate. If not, this may cause a definitional challenge which will ruin the debate and frustrate the judges.

For example, the topic may be “we spend too much money on the stars”. Stars can refer to celebrities or astronomy so you need to choose a definition.

Look at the context and see if there has been a recent significant event related to either topics – the media is the best place to look.
Then apply second test – which definition will lead to the best debate, which will be more interesting and debatable?

If one answer passes both tests then that’s your definition. If they tie then either is a good definition.

When providing your definition explain the context used to form the definition. This is important because your understanding of the context may be different from others due to various factors, such as, religion, culture, gender etc.

Learn more about using AI to practice your debating skills .

Basic argument structure

There are various ways of dividing up cases according to groups of arguments, such as, social/economic/political etc. You could assign each speaker to handle a group.

Place the most important arguments first, for example, “The media has more influence on self-esteem than anybody else. This is true for three reasons. Firstly (most important argument)… Secondly…, Thirdly (least important argument)…”

To structure an argument follow these steps:

Claim – present your argument in a clear statement. This claim is one reason why you’re in favour of/against the motion.
Evidence – the evidence supporting your claim, such as, statistics, references, quotes, analogies etc.
Impact – explain the significance of the evidence – how does this support your claim?

Arguments are weakest at the evidence stage as it’s easy to argue against, for example, the evidence may consist of isolated examples or there may be counter evidence. But it’s not a good technique because the opposition can provide more evidence or rebut your criticisms.

It’s difficult to rebut claims because they are usually reasonable but if you can attack a claim then that speaker’s whole argument falls apart. So if you think a claim is vulnerable then rebut it but you will need a strong explanation to show why it doesn’t matter.

European human rights debating for sixth form students from across London.

There are common flaws you can look for to form a rebuttal:

1. False dichotomy – this is where the speaker is trying to falsely divide the debate into two sides even though there are more alternatives than they state. It’s likely the speaker is doing this on purpose but in some cases they do not understand the debate.

2. Assertion – this is when a speaker presents a statement which isn’t actually an argument because there is no reason to believe that the statement is valid. It may just be an assumption. You can point out that there has not been enough examination to prove this validity and then give a reason why the assertion is (probably) not valid.

3. Morally flawed – arguments can be morally flawed, for example, “All criminals given a prison sentence should be given the death penalty instead, this will save the country money and space.” What has been argued is true but it’s clearly morally flawed.

4. Correlation rather than causation – a speaker may suggest a link between two events and suggest one led to the other. But the speaker may not explain how one caused the other event which can make an argument invalid.

5. Failure to deliver promises – sometimes a speaker might fail to complete a task they promised to deliver. For instance, they may state that they will provide evidence supporting a certain claim but they may lose track of what they have said and not actually do this.

6. Straw man – the opposing team introduces an argument and then rebuts it. They may use an extreme example of your proposal or perhaps they were hoping that you would make this argument.

7. Contradiction – an argument the other team presents may contradict one of their previous arguments. You must point out that the arguments cannot be true simultaneously and then explain how this reduces their case’s credibility.

8. Compare the conclusion to reality – think “what would happen if what they (the other team) are suggesting is implemented right now?” This usually shows that it’s more complicated than they have suggested and the changes can cause secondary problems.

Judges generally score the speakers looking at this criteria:

Content / Matter – What the debaters say, their arguments and evidence, the relevance of their arguments.
Style / Manner – How the debaters speak, including the language and tone used.
Strategy / Method – The structure of the speech, the clarity and responding to other’s arguments.

Debating event at the Oxford Union

Important skills for debating

To meet the judges criteria you will have to develop certain skills, consider the following:

You points must be relevant to the topic.
Provide evidence whenever you can and not your personal opinion.
You must put aside your personal views and remain objective when you debate so your argument remains logical. You can be passionate about a topic but interest can turn into aggression and passion can turn into upset.
Consider the audience’s attention span – make it interesting, for example, don’t just present lots of complicated statistics.
Ethos – the ethical appeal
Pathos – the emotional appeal
Logos – the logical appeal
Use notes but keep them brief and well organised. Use a different piece of paper for rebuttals.
Similar to looking at conclusions to create rebuttals, think comparatively by asking yourself “How does my plan compare to what’s happening now/what would happen in the world if the other team won?” You can win the debate if you can make comparative claims about why your arguments matter more than the other team.
Only tell jokes if you’re naturally good at it otherwise this can backfire.
Flexibility is important because you might get allocated the side of the argument you don’t agree with. You’ll have to work hard to overcome your views. Also use this insight to think of the potential arguments you might make and then plan for counter arguments.
Speak clearly and concisely.
You must talk fast enough to have the time to deliver your speech but slow enough so you can be understood.
Project your voice to the back of the room.
Incorporate dramatic pauses.
Emphasise important words and vary your tone appropriately.
Have a relaxed pose and posture.
Avoid filler words.
Know your material.
Emphasise using gestures and avoid nervous gestures.
Maintain eye contact with the audience.
Keep your language simple to avoid confusion.
Refer to the opposite side as: “My opponent”.
When making a rebuttal say: “My opponent said…, however…”
Don’t exaggerate – avoid the words “never” or “always” etc.
Avoid saying that a speaker “is wrong”, instead say that “your idea is mistaken”.

What to avoid

Falsifying, making up or altering evidence.
Publicly disagreeing with the judges’ decision.
Attacking a speaker rather than an idea.
Acting aggressively or offensively towards debaters, judges, audience etc.
Interrupting other debaters as this can suggest that your argument isn’t very strong.
Disagreeing with facts or obvious truths.

British Parliamentary debating

British Parliamentary debating is a popular form of debating so we will briefly explain it: There are four teams made up of two speakers each. Two teams are on the government’s side and the other two teams are the opposition but all the teams are trying to win rather than one side. The motion is given 15 minutes before the debate begins and teams are assigned to positions randomly. They alternate their speeches, with the government’s side starting. Speeches are usually 5-7 minutes.

The first two speakers on the government side are called the “opening government” and the first two speakers on the opposition’s side are called the “opening opposition”. The last two speakers on the government’s and opposition’s side are called the “closing government” and “closing opposition” correspondingly.

British MPs debate a petition seeking to ban Donald Trump from entering the U.K.

The speakers’ roles in the opening half of the debate are similar to the roles of the first and second speakers in the three against three debate described previously. The only difference is that the second opening government and second opening opposition speakers include summaries at the end of their speeches – this is because they will also be competing with the teams in the closing half of the debate.

The closing government and closing opposition aim to move the debate on but not contradict their side’s opening team. As well as rebuttal, the majority of the third speaker’s time consists of presenting either: new material, new arguments, a new analysis from a different perspective or extending previously presented arguments. This is called an “extension” which must be something that sets their team apart and makes them unique.

The last two speeches of the closing teams are summary speeches – they summarise the debate and disagreements between the team. Their most important goal is to explain why their side has won the debate. They are not allowed to present new arguments but they can present new evidence and rebuttal.

During the speeches points of information are offered regularly. Speakers should only accept a maximum of two points of information. The first and last minute is protected time where points of information cannot be offered.

Rather than a side trying to win, all the teams are trying to win – this allows different perspectives to be explored. The teams are then ranked 1st to 4th in the debate.

Debate topics

Almost anything can be debated, here are some popular topics – these have been written as questions but they can be easily adapted into statements:

Is animal experimentation justified?
Should we legalise the possession of cannabis for medicinal use?
Should we recognise Bitcoin as a legal currency?
Is torture acceptable when used for national security?
Should mobile phones be banned until a certain age?
Does technology make us more lonely?
Should guns be banned in the U.S.?
Should we make internet companies liable for illegal content shared on their platforms?
Will posting students’ grades publicly motivate them to perform better?
Should animals be used for scientific testing?
Do violent video games make people more violent?
Should the death penalty be stopped completely?
Should smoking in public places be completely banned?
Should doping be allowed in professional sports?
Should all zoos be closed?
Should consumers must take responsibility for the plastic waste crisis?
Is euthanasia justified?
Is the boarding school system beneficial to children?

Debate topics for children

If you’re trying to think of debate topics for a classroom, consider the following:

Should mobile phones be allowed at school?
Is global warming a problem?
Should violent video games be banned?
Is school detention beneficial?
Are celebrities good role models?
Does social networking have a beneficial effect on society?
Are single sex schools more effective than co-ed schools?
Do celebrities get away with more crime than non-celebrities?
Is cloning animals ethical?
Are humans to blame for certain animal extinctions?

Debating societies

If you’re interested in debating consider searching for a society or debating events near you:

Most universities have a debating society and their webpages usually contain lots of useful information and tips.
Toastmasters
Use Meetup to find debates close to you

Specific to the UK:

Sylvans Debating Club
The Association of Speakers Clubs

How To Start A Debate On Any Topic

Debate is a type of persuasive speaking that involves two sides, who each speak on different sides of a topic. A good debater knows how to start a debate by greeting the audience in a compelling way and then presenting their thesis, which they will restate at the end of their talk.

Engaging in healthy and constructive debates is an essential skill in today’s complex and interconnected world. Whether discussing societal issues, exploring differing viewpoints, or honing critical thinking abilities, debates provide a platform for intellectual growth and understanding.

This article delves into practical strategies and techniques for how to start a debate and fostering an environment conducive to insightful conversations and respectful dialogue.

From defining clear objectives to mastering the art of persuasive opening statements, let’s uncover the keys to kickstarting engaging debates that promote intellectual exploration and foster mutual respect.

Table of Contents

Why is Good Preparation The Best Way To Start A Debate?

Good preparation is the best way to start a debate for several compelling reasons.

Firstly, thorough preparation allows you to familiarize yourself with the topic at hand, enabling you to gather relevant information, statistics, and supporting evidence. This not only boosts your confidence but also enhances your credibility as a debater.

Secondly, preparation enables you to anticipate counterarguments and potential objections , giving you a strategic advantage in presenting persuasive rebuttals. Understanding different perspectives and viewpoints means you can craft well-rounded arguments that address opposing views equally.

Additionally, preparation instills a sense of structure and organization. You will be able to present your points coherently and sequentially, enhancing the clarity and impact of your debate.

Finally, being well-prepared ensures that you have a firm grasp of your own position , enabling you to articulate your ideas confidently and passionately, thereby captivating and engaging your audience. Overall, good preparation provides a solid foundation for a successful debate, empowering you to present compelling arguments, anticipate objections, and effectively communicate your viewpoint.

How to start a debate-Preparation is the key

What Is A Good Way To Start A Debate?

A good way to start a debate is by employing several engaging techniques that capture the audience’s attention and set the tone for a compelling discussion.

One effective approach is to begin with a captivating story relating to the topic at hand. By sharing a relatable narrative, you can connect with the audience on an emotional level and establish a personal connection.

Another effective strategy is to ask a thought-provoking rhetorical question . This prompts the audience to reflect on the topic and encourages active engagement from the start. Rhetorical questions stimulate critical thinking and create an atmosphere of curiosity, setting the stage for a spirited debate.

Using impactful statistics can also be a powerful opener. Presenting a surprising statistic related to the subject grabs attention and emphasizes the topic’s significance. This approach establishes the relevance and urgency of the debate.

Additionally, incorporating a powerful quote from a notable figure can add credibility and intrigue to your opening statement. A well-chosen quote can encapsulate the essence of your argument or introduce a unique perspective, generating interest and setting the tone for the discussion.

Employing a prop or creative visual aid can be highly effective if appropriate. Visual elements strongly impact audience engagement and can help illustrate complex ideas or reinforce key points, making your opening more memorable and persuasive.

For more detailed guidance, refer to the WikiHow article , which offers further insights and practical tips.

What Is A Greeting To Start The Debate?

A suitable greeting at the beginning of a debate sets the tone and establishes a positive atmosphere for the entire discourse. It creates a sense of respect, professionalism, and engagement among the participants and audience alike.

What Is A Good Opening Sentence For A Debate?

“In the realm of debate, where ideas collide, and perspectives converge, it is imperative to examine the multifaceted nuances surrounding [insert topic], which demands our unwavering attention and critical analysis.”

How to start a speech - a compelling introduction

What Should You Include In Your Introduction?

You should include several key elements that set the stage for your debate in your introduction :

Begin with a captivating statement, anecdote, question, statistic, or quote that captures the audience’s attention and piques their interest in the topic.
Provide a brief overview or background information about the topic to establish its relevance and significance. Set the stage by highlighting key historical, social, or cultural factors relevant to the discussion.
Clearly state the topic or issue that will be debated, ensuring it is concise and specific. This helps to focus the debate and ensure all participants are on the same page.
Articulate the purpose of the debate. What are the main goals or objectives you aim to achieve through the discussion? This helps to guide the debate and provide a sense of direction.
Present your main argument or thesis statement, the central claim or viewpoint you will support throughout the debate. Make sure it is clear, concise, and well-articulated.
Provide a brief roadmap or overview of the main points or arguments supporting your thesis to give the audience an idea of what to expect and provides a structure for the debate.

What Are Some Examples Of Debate Greetings?

Some other examples to kick off your debate are:

“Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed judges, and fellow debaters, I extend a warm welcome to each of you as we embark on a thought-provoking journey of intellectual discourse.”
“Good morning/afternoon/evening, distinguished panel of judges, honorable guests, and fellow participants. It is an honor to stand before you today and engage in a stimulating debate on [insert topic].”
“Greetings, respected audience, esteemed adjudicators, and fellow debaters. Thank you for joining us as we delve into the complexities of [insert topic], seeking to unravel its intricacies and explore diverse perspectives.”
“Hello, everyone, and welcome to this exciting debate where we gather to explore the depths of [insert topic]. It is my pleasure to be here today alongside esteemed colleagues to engage in a spirited exchange of ideas.”

Understanding How To Start A Debate In Class

When starting a debate in a classroom setting, consider the following steps:

Begin by clearly stating the topic of the debate through a brief explanation or a thought-provoking question focusing on the subject. Make sure the issue is relevant to the curriculum or the lesson being discussed.
Set clear guidelines and expectations . Establish the rules of engagement for the debate, such as time limits for speakers, respectful language and behavior, and any specific guidelines for presenting arguments or rebuttals. Emphasize the importance of active listening, respect for differing points of view, and constructive dialogue.
Organize students into debate teams or assign specific roles , such as affirmative and negative speakers. This creates a structured and balanced debate environment. Ensure each team has sufficient time for preparation.
Give students time to conduct research and gather relevant information to support their arguments. Encourage them to use credible sources and think critically when evaluating evidence.
Begin the debate by having each team or individual present their opening statements. This allows them to introduce both sides of the argument and set the groundwork for the discussion. Allocate equal time for each team to present their case.
Encourage active participation and respectful exchanges between the teams. Manage the debate by moderating the speaking order, ensuring equal opportunity for all participants, and keeping the discussion focused and on track.
After the opening statements, provide opportunities for teams to challenge each other’s arguments through rebuttals and counterarguments. This promotes critical thinking, analytical skills, and the ability to respond effectively to opposing viewpoints.
Conclude the debate by summarizing the main points raised by each side and highlighting any areas of consensus or unresolved issues. Encourage students to reflect on the debate and the insights gained from the discussion.

How Do You Start A Debate If You Are In A Hurry?

If you find yourself in a hurry to start a debate, here’s a quick and efficient way to initiate the discussion:

Provide a brief statement or question that clearly states the topic of the debate. Keep it straightforward and direct to immediately engage the participants.
Quickly divide the participants into teams or assign specific roles, ensuring a balanced representation of different viewpoints.
Establish time limits for opening statements, rebuttals, and overall debate duration. Keep the time constraints concise and manageable, ensuring the debate progresses efficiently within the available timeframe.
Prompt each team or individual to present a brief opening statement outlining their main argument or position. Encourage them to be concise and focused, allowing for efficient communication of ideas.
Allocate a brief period for teams to offer immediate rebuttals or counterarguments to the opposing side’s opening statements. Emphasize the importance of providing succinct and impactful responses.
Encourage participants to engage in concise exchanges while ensuring the debate remains respectful and on-topic. Facilitate brief opportunities for teams to respond to each other’s arguments, maintaining a fast-paced flow.
Dedicate a moment to briefly summarize the main points raised by each side, acknowledging any areas of agreement or key disagreements. Provide a quick wrap-up to conclude the debate.

How Do You Start And End A Debate?

To start and end a debate speech effectively, follow these general guidelines:

Beginning A Debate Speech

Begin with a strong and attention-grabbing opening statement, such as a relevant quote, rhetorical question, or compelling statistic, to engage the audience and establish the context of the debate.
Address the audience, judges, and fellow debaters respectfully, acknowledging their presence and the importance of the topic being discussed.
Clearly state your team’s position or stance on the topic to provide a clear framework for your arguments and help the audience understand your perspective.
Provide a concise overview of the main arguments you will present supporting your position. This preview gives the audience a roadmap of what to expect during your speech.

Ending A Debate Speech

Briefly recap the key arguments you presented during your speech. Restate them concisely and compellingly, reinforcing their relevance and importance.
Acknowledge and address the main points raised by the opposing team. Offer concise rebuttals or counterarguments to strengthen your position and demonstrate critical thinking in the face of opposing arguments.
End your speech with a strong closing statement that emphasizes the significance of your position and leaves a lasting impact on the audience. You can use a memorable quote, a call to action, or a thought-provoking statement.

Remember, your debate speech’s specific content and structure will depend on the format, topic, and assigned role (e.g., first speaker, second speaker, etc.). Tailor your approach to align with the guidelines and expectations of the specific debate setting.

What Are Some Good Debate Topics?

Here are some good debate topics that cover a range of areas related to debating skills, public speaking, and various aspects of debates.

These topics offer opportunities to explore different facets of debating, public speaking, and debate competitions. They can spark engaging discussions and allow participants to develop their speaking skills while considering different perspectives and arguments:

Should public speaking be included as a mandatory course in the school curriculum?
Is formal debate an effective way to develop critical thinking skills?
Should debate competitions focus more on collaboration and teamwork rather than individual performance?
Is body language more influential than verbal communication in a debate?
Should beginners be encouraged to participate in competitive debates or start with informal practice sessions?
Is parliamentary debate a more effective format than traditional formal debate?
Should high schools prioritize debate programs as an essential extracurricular activity?
Is eye contact an essential aspect of persuasive public speaking?
Should hand gestures be regulated or restricted during formal debates?
Should affirmative teams be given additional responsibilities in a debate to encourage innovative approaches?
Is there a preferred debate format that should be universally adopted for all competitive debates?
Should debate introductions be concise and to the point or include more detailed contextual information?
Are third speakers in debates undervalued or underutilized?
Should there be specific guidelines for timekeepers in debates to ensure fairness and accuracy?
Is it beneficial to have a variety of debate formats to cater to different styles and preferences?

Adam Howarth

Adam covers the topic of Public Speaking for Digital Authority. From his first experience of oratory with his school debating society to his more recent experiences of promoting the local business scene in Wrexham, Wales, he has always been involved in public speaking.

How to Write a Debate

This page was first published on the 28th of November, 2016 and last updated on the 3rd of May, 2017 by Patrick Carpen.

The word “debate” comes from “de,” possibly meaning “down” or “completely,” and “battiere,” possibly meaning “fight” or “beat.” Words of similar root may include “battered” and “battle.”

A debate, in modern usage, and for the purpose of this article, is a formal argument between two groups which is performed in front of an audience. These two groups are usually two teams in a school, or two different teams from two different schools, regions, etc.

Debates are included as part of a school’s curricula to stimulate research and excitement, which ultimately contributes to learning. Because winning a debate often leads to a sense of accomplishment, glory, trophies and prizes, both sides push themselves to the limit to take home the gold.

A debate team of a school usual consist of three speakers: a first speaker, a second speaker, and a third speaker. There is also a backup speaker who stands by in case one of the three speakers is not well and falls out of the program.

When the debate is performed, it is usually done in front of an audience of students in the school’s auditorium. There is a panel of judges who listen carefully and give scores for each speaker, and there is a group of timekeepers who make sure the debaters use the specific time allotted to each of them. And this brings us to the “timings of a debate.”

When writing a debate, it must be practiced and confirmed that each debater can complete their speeches within the allotted time frame. And this brings us to:

The Time Allocation of Each Debater

The time allocation of each debater is as follows:

First Speaker – 6 minutes

Second Speaker – 5 minutes

Third Speaker – 3 minutes

The debaters must rehearse to make sure that each one of them completes their speech comfortably within the allotted time. This takes a lot of practice and rehearsals, and must be perfected. A debater loses points for finishing more than 15 seconds before the allotted time, or 15 seconds after the allotted time. During each presentation, the debater must speak fluently, use gestures, accentuate keywords, and maintain a good posture. And this brings us to the parameters for judging a debate.

The Parameters for Judging a Debate

A debate is often such a fierce competition between two rival teams that the judges often admit that they would “not like to be a judge”. However, judges can keep a level head and make unbiased assessments by using the following judging parameters:

Development of points 15

Reasoning and logic 15

Originality 10

Relevance 10

Mechanics 15

Articulation 5

Attitude to opponent 5

Development of argument 10

Interpretation of topic (moot) 5

Rebuttal 20

Below is a debate that was performed by two Caribbean Schools in Region 9 of Guyana , South America. The moot:

The Agricultural Sector is the Gateway to Guyana’s Future

St. Ignatius Secondary proposed the moot. In other words, they were arguing in favor of the moot. They were called the “proposition.”

Sandcreek Secondary opposed the moot. They were called the opposing team.

Read the debate presentation of each one of them. Who do you think won? Leave your comment in the comment box below this article to let us know what you think!

What other comments or suggestion do you have? How could the debate of each one be better? Leave your comment and let us know your thoughts.

Note the following:

In any debate, a moot must be “defined.” A moot must also be “interpreted.”

St. Ignatius Secondary’s Debate

Moot: The Agricultural Sector is the Gateway to Guyana’s future

First Speaker :

Esteemed judges, adamant opponents, fellow colleagues of the proposition, audience all. Our belief today is, beyond the shadow of a doubt, that, “The Agricultural Sector is the gateway to Guyana’s Future.” And in the next few minutes, we will explain our viewpoint to you in such a clear and straightforward manner that you will have no option but to believe. You will believe because you will realize that everything we are saying is absolutely true.

First of all, I will do the honors of explaining our moot.

The word agriculture is derived from two Latin words, and I quote ager = which means field, and cultura, which means cultivation *end of quote*.

According to Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English, the word Agriculture is defined as, and I quote* “the practice or science of farming” *end of quote*.

Sector , in this context, refers to *quote* all resources dedicated to agriculture. *unquote*

Gateway signifies the way to economic success and prosperity for Guyana.

Future means any time beyond the present, and, in this case, implies success and prosperity in those times.

For the purpose of this debate, we interpret the moot to mean, and I quote *The Agricultural Sector will lead to a vibrant and powerful economy, technological and social advancement, and a strong financial future for Guyana.* unquote

I, Ave Tony, will give an overview of the merits of Agriculture as it applies to Guyana . My second speaker, Nikala D.’Aguillar, will dive in and explore the various agricultural prospects, and my third speaker, Ayesha King, will summarize the points of our argument.

Honorable judges, you will agree with me that Guyana has a rich agricultural heritage. The initial explosive success of this great nation was grounded in agricultural practices. It is our rich, fertile soil that brought financial power to the land of many waters. It was the explosive success of sugar, rice, tomatoes, pepper, cabbages, and the myriads of other cash crops that marked our country on the world map.

Hundreds of years ago, Europeans travelling to the land of many waters in search of a golden city found something better. They found our soil. And they realized there and then, that our soil is gold. A message was sent back to the then queen of England, who immediately consented to starting an Agricultural operation which lasts to this very day and created untold wealth for centuries to come. This is the story of Guyana’s birth as a civilized nation. This is the story of Guyana’s famed sugar plantations, which harnessed the power of Guyana’s fertile soil, and which still accounts for about 15% of Guyana’s Gross National Product.

But it doesn’t stop there, rice was next. This too was a phenomenal success which created billions of dollars in foreign revenue for decades to come, and helped earn Guyana the respect of its friends and neighbors.

Combine that with the acres and acres of cash crop production which bloomed into existence, and we soon earned the title “the bread basket of the Caribbean.”

On the other side of the map, our indigenous peoples, the Amerindians, have mastered the art of cassava, plantain, peanuts, and bananas cultivation, which have further enriched and nourished our nation.

Sadly, it seems today that we have forgotten our roots, vines, and branches. Progress in the Agricultural Sector has slowed to a virtual standstill. Excessive imports, combined with a blatant lack of investment into Guyana’s very foundation, have weakened our economy almost to a point of no return. The very sector that once brought so much wealth, pride, and prestige to this great nation has now been overrun by groundless practices.

Consequently, our economy has plummeted, our dollar has nosedived to an all-time low, and our people are left groping at straws. Isn’t it time we start spinning those straws into gold?

Honorable judges, by the end of our presentation, my team and I will convince you that our soil gives us the ability to spin straws into gold, and that the Agricultural Sector really is the gateway to Guyana’s future.

We will explain how expanding our agricultural sector and exploiting our agricultural resources will open doors and windows to economic prosperity and a brighter future for all Guyanese .

We will explain how agriculture will help preserve and amplify our mineral resources, and empower our government to do greater things for our nation.

We will show you, through real life examples and proven statistics how agriculture makes nations rich and powerful by highlighting some of the greatest agricultural success stories of all time. And more importantly, we will convince you, that we should not, at any cost, be left behind.

When we extend agricultural operations across Guyana , we will provide jobs for the citizens of this country. Through increased financial security the nuclear family will more frequently hold its bonds. Parents will be better able to send their children to school, and the government will be able to supply more needs. By farming on a much larger scale, we will be able to slash productions costs down to the bone and export to foreign countries. The revenues that will be made from these increased agricultural productions will strengthen Guyana in all areas. By stepping up agriculture in Guyana , we will produce healthier citizens through increased physical activity and more nutritious foods.

Extensive agricultural productions will win the war against malnourishment, not just for Guyana , but for the world. The low carbon emissions of agricultural operations make it the environmentalist’s dream.

Our vast, rich pastures and abundant land spaces make sheep, cattle, and other animal farming an investor’s paradise.

Let us remember that a dramatic increase in agricultural productions will mean greater revenues for the country. It will mean richer and more capable citizens. It will mean lower cost of living. It will also mean higher spending power to us as a nation. And all of this ultimately spells healthier, happier, and more productive citizens.

According to information received from the Ministry of Agriculture, we as a nation have not tapped even 1/10th of our Agricultural capabilities. What are we waiting for? To be overrun by smarter nations? No. It is time to put on our thinking caps. It is time to realize that the agricultural sector will bring in the foreign exchange that will strengthen Guyana’s economy. It is Agriculture that will help us to fund our schools and universities–which in turn will contribute to the rise of our nation.

We must once again recognize the gold that we now trample under our feet. We must revive the agricultural sector and bring golden opportunities to the deserving citizens of this great nation.

SECOND SPEAKER

I stand as the second speaker in full support of the moot “The Agricultural sector is the gateway to Guyana’s future.”

According to the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations, the world’s most powerful economies: USA, France, China, Australia, Canada, and Germany are all among the top ten Agricultural producers.

By investing in our agricultural sector, we will increase our exports and earn much needed foreign revenues, thereby increasing our nation’s spending power and ability to do business with the world at large.

Increased agricultural activities will help to lower our cost of living. Since we will be producing more locally, the government will be able to pay public servants more, our currency will be strengthened and local traders will be able to offer goods at cheaper prices.

I would like to point out why Agriculture is the way to go for Guyana’s development by examining the most obvious alternative: industrialization. We’ve all read articles and heard speeches by economists who suggest that industrialization is the key to a stronger economy in Guyana . But we’d like to explain that wider agricultural practices need to precede industrialization. Under the present circumstances, the importation of heavy-duty industrial machineries which cost exorbitant sums of money would put such a dent in Guyana’s financial reserves that it would cripple our country’s economy. On top of that, we do not have mechanism in place to combat the growing problem of pollution which would arise from a premature bloom of industrial activities, or the skilled labor required for such an industrialized environment. Instead, let on focus on our strong points: an abundant labor force, rich fertile soil, and a ready international market waiting to scramble our produce.

Agriculture will pave the way for, and strengthen the process of, industrialization in Guyana . The revenue from our agricultural exports will enable us to gear ourselves for advancement in the industrial and manufacturing sectors. It would also empower us to educate and create capable citizens – able to pave the way for much needed industrialization. And more than that, we would have in our possession an abundance of raw materials needed to produce value-added products…when that time comes. It is agriculture that will pave the way for value added products, encourage modern packaging, and breed innovation.

Agriculture will help preserve and amplify our precious non-renewable resources.

With increased agricultural activities and increased revenue, we will no longer have the need to bleed our nation of its precious mineral wealth. Instead, we will wait for the right market prices and take advantage of it. On top of that, with help from the Agricultural sector, we will be able to put our revenues from mineral resources to much better use.

Agriculture will demolish unemployment and discourage criminal activities. It is a sad fact that unemployment in Guyana is at an all-time high. A Caribbean Development Bank Report states that Youth Unemployment in Guyana stands at 40% as of January, 2016. A study conducted by several leading universities, including the Ohio State University, have concluded a direct link between unemployment and crime. Extensive agricultural activities will give youths the ability to use their muscles wisely. It will give them something to dream about, aim for, and work towards. All in all, Agriculture will enrich the lives of our citizens, and create higher social values.

Agriculture will strengthen our citizens physically through increased physical activities. According to the World Health Organization Report, one of the greatest risk factors for chronic diseases such as diabetes and cancer is and I quote “lack of physical activity.” And what is a risk factor for good health? You guessed it: agriculture.

Agriculture will hold families together by creating more jobs, money, and happiness. Families will be able to achieve their dreams, and rely on each other for financial, physical, and emotional support.

Agriculture will fund education across Guyana . This will lead to healthier and happier students, better learning environments and more equipped human resources for Guyana .

Honorable judges, esteemed opponents, audience, all, to sum all of what I have just said in simple words that even a child can understand: The Agricultural Sector is the Gateway to Guyana’s Future.

Third Speaker:

Honorable judges, members of the opposition, audience, all…. I am delighted to recap what my preceding team members have so energetically propounded. And that is:

Our soil is rich and fertile and highly suitable to agricultural practices.

Guyana possesses a strong, capable and ready labor force, able to supply the needs of extensive agricultural projects.

There is a hungry international market looking to purchase high quality agricultural produce at reasonable prices.

Agricultural projects are not only highly profitable, but also are low-carbon emission and therefore friendly to the environment.

Increased agricultural productions will strengthen our economy by cutting imports and increasing exports.

Increased Agricultural productions will lower the cost of living.

Agriculture is superior to industrialization at Guyana’s present stage of development.

Agriculture will pave the way for, and strengthen the process of, industrialization in Guyana .

Agriculture will pave the way for value added products, encourage modern packaging, and breed innovation.

Extensive agricultural operations will demolish unemployment.

Increased agricultural operations will help us win the fight against malnourishment by providing us with a surplus of fresh, natural foods rich in vitamins.

Greater investments into the Agricultural sector will help to reduce crime and criminal activities

Increasing and accelerating agricultural activities across Guyana will strengthen our citizens physically through increased physical activities.

More agricultural opportunities will hold families together by creating more jobs, money, and happiness.

The income from extensive agricultural productions will fund education across Guyana .

Extending agricultural activities will lead to healthier and happier citizens of Guyana .

The income from Agricultural exports will finance better learning environments and enhance and equip Guyana’s most precious resource: its human resources.

Agriculture will provide occupation for the youths and citizens in general.

The most successful world economies are the highest agricultural producers.

Furthermore, there is a growing food shortage around the globe, and by equipping our nation, we can fulfill this crucial need for the world and become richer than our wildest dreams. We will also gain the respect of the international community for our wisdom, strength, and innovation.

Honorable judges, members of the opposition, colleagues of the proposition, audience all, thank you for giving us the opportunity to express our viewpoints which we so dearly cherish. We are sure that by now you see eye-to-eye with us through our crystal clear lens and that you now totally agree with us that, as we stated from the very start, “The Agricultural Sector is the gateway to Guyana’s Future.”

Sandcreek Secondary’s Debate

First Speaker

Distinguished judges, accurate time keeper, fellow debaters, and audience all, I Sabrina Cyril stand to refute the moot that, “The Agriculture sector is the gateway to Guyana’s future.” I shall begin our argument by explaining how gold, at present, is more crucial to Guyana’s growth than agriculture. Our second speaker …..will continue our argument with her findings on how the oil sector will have the greatest impact on Guyana’s future. Our third speaker, Loree Edwin, shall conclude our argument by explaining how the sugar industry is a burden to Guyana’s future and how education is the true gateway to a prosperous future for Guyana .

Before I go on, let me first restate the moot and define a few key terms to ensure we all have a definite understanding of the argument.

The moot reads, “The Agricultural sector is the gateway to Guyana’s future.”

“Agriculture” – Can be defined as: the rearing of animals and the cultivation of crops.

“Sector” can be defined as: a single section of industry that contributes to a country’s GDP.

“Gateway,” defined by the Cambridge Complete Dictionary is, “A way of achieving something.”

“The” – a small but operative word in this argument refers to “only and solely.”

This indicates that is is the proposition’s belief that Guyana’s future is solely reliant on the performance of the agriculture sector.

The moot now reads, “The Section of Industry that Comprises the Rearing of Livestock and Cultivation of Crops is THE Only Path to Achieving Something in Guyana in Time to Come.”

It should also be noted that the use of “gateway” with its definition allows us to derive that the moot entails that the “agriculture sector is one and only gateway” to a future that sees success in achieving its goals. This is the point which we will refute.

Gold is the element on which most global monetary systems are based. The price of this infamous metal is, time and time again, used as the true indicator of a country’s growth, banking reserves, and wealth. With such prowess, it is obvious that such a mineral can be of influence in Guyana , especially when you consider how abundant it is throughout the nation and its high demand worldwide.

In recent years, the number of gold mines has been on the rise. Why? It’s because gold is proving to be an extremely profitable industry. Communities across Guyana are becoming reliant on the gold industry to fuel its economy, for example, A BBC report found that “Port Kaituma’s reliance on mining is replicated across Guyana – gold accounts for nearly half of the country’s total exports, which were some $218m (USD) in the first quarter of 2011.” This is compounded by the government’s budget highlights for this year, which show that the mining and quarrying sectors grew by 9 percent with gold exports growing by 16.4 percent this financial year.

So mining is a growing industry that already accounts for more than half of Guyana’s exports! Can you not see how gold is already proving a gateway to Guyana’s future? It provides job and prosperity when so many other sectors are faltering. In 2010, sugar, rice, and timber combined contributed 34.4% to the value of Guyana’s exports, whereas Gold by itself totaled 37.6%. This figure will rise to 50% if we include other minerals such as bauxite and diamond. These figures are all provided courtesy of the Guyana Geology & Mines Commission working in partnership with both the Bank of Guyana and the Bureau of Statistics in Guyana . And I must say, the findings are convincing, are they not?

It is only fair for us to also address the negatives surrounding the mining of this precious metal; that using some current methods, some deforestation has unfortunately taken place. Yes, this is a consequence of gold mining, but the majority is due to reckless, profit driven decisions by corporations. However, with greater state involvement and regulation, this can be rectified, resulting in a sustainable, growing and most importantly, a profitable industry that will continue to pave the gateway to Guyana’s future.

In summary, gold is already a huge part of Guyana’s present, and with its proven year on year growth, it will be an even bigger part of its future. Gateway, again, means “a way of achieving something,” and the gold sector is unquestionably already achieving something as it shapes Guyana’s future with economic improvements, job creation, and strengthening international trade.

So it an be argued that the Agriculture Sector is not THE gateway; it can be considered A gateway.

Thank you for your attention.

Second Speaker

Honorable judges, trustworthy timekeeper, fellow debaters and my captive audience, a pleasant good morning to you. My name is ___________ and I will continue our argument that “The Agricultural sector is NOT the gateway to Guyana’s future,” due to the economic power of Guyana’s plentiful supply of oil.

You heard from our first speaker about the success the mining industry is experiencing in this mineral-rich nation. Now, let me open your eyes to the true wealth of resource that our rich and vibrant land has at the near reach of its fingertips: OIL.

Current estimations by various professional sources all agree that Guyana has an undeniably huge reserve of oil, up to 1.4 BILLION barrels of petroleum. This figure is just for the wells that we have already identified around Guyana , and there are many more that are anticipated due to geological findings and continued research.

Even off-shore, Guyana contains this treasure waiting to be tapped. In a report by the US Geological Survey it is stated that, and I quote “the Guyana-Suriname Basin has the second largest unexplored oil potential in the world after Greenland.” End of quote. Coupled with the fact that in 2015, a brand new off-shore reserve was discovered, showing that Guyana has both on and off-shore potential. Exxon has been allotted a total area of 26,806 square kilometers of water off-shore for exploration, making the economic future of Guyana very promising indeed.

In August of this year, Ralph Ramkarran, a prominent Guyanese told Stabroek News how the true value of Guyana’s oil could turn around its economy. I quote:

“If Guyana’s production is in the vicinity of 500,000 barrels a day, as it should be, at a value of about 80 US Dollars per barrel, this will bring in 14.6 Billion US Dollars of which Guyana’s take at the usual 40 percent will be 5.5 billion US Dollars a year.” End of Quote.

“With increasing exploration activities, if anything close to the lower figure of 15 billion barrels are discovered, for most Guyanese the future would be beyond contemplation. With reserves of only between 800 million and 1.4 billion barrels, poverty would be diminished in a short period and Guyana per capita income of 3600 US dollars would rise rapidly.” How much you ask? I quote from the end of this report, “Guyana’s per capita will move to about 14000 US dollars in the early 2020s” purely on the back of the oil production profits and its taxation.

With that in mind, how can you possibly argue, my dear proposition, that the Agricultural Sector is THE gateway to Guyana’s future, when oil has unequivocally the greatest potential impact on the economy? Even if the full reserves aren’t tapped, the effects on Guyana’s economy will be tremendous. No other resource of sector can multiply GDP fourfold by the end of this decade, as oil alone can.

Our government is wisely taking its time in deciding on its course of action for the potential wealth it sits upon because its use will shape the next century of Guyana’s history. It is likely that when the oil revenues are re-invested that it shall be oil which will in fact be the gateway for the success of agriculture as this will provide the funds Guyana desperately needs to upgrade the sector.

My dear proposition, to claim that, “The Agricultural Sector is the gateway to Guyana’s future” is ludicrous especially after listening to me and our first speaker. Gold mining is a growing industry that is increasingly profitable. Guyana’s agriculture sector is neither of these. Oil will raise Guyana to be one of the wealthiest nations in South America and the Caribbean, while its reliance on the agriculture sector will not. Now members of the proposition, do you really believe that, “the Agricultural Sector is the gateway to Guyana’s future?” I really don’t think so.

The Agriculture sector may have the potential of being the gateway, but as of now, it is simply not!

I rest my case.

Ladies and gentlemen, thank you.

Third Speaker

You give a man a fish and you feed him for the day; you teach a man to fish and he can feed himself for the rest of his life.

My name is Loreen Edwin. I stand here to conclude our argument that, “the Agricultural Sector is NOT “THE gateway to Guyana’s future.” The first speaker went at great length to show you how the gold and mining industries are having a significant impact on Guyana’s future. The second speaker explained the impact oil will have on Guyana’s future. They have provided you with solid evidence, don’t you agree? So how can you honestly say that the agricultural sector is the gateway to Guyana’s future? Perhaps it could be Guyana’s future demise. Agriculture was indeed once Guyana’s champion of economics and growth back when sugar and rice production were cheap enough to compete with the international markets. But now, due to a lack of reinvestment and neglect of assets, the industry is in disrepair and year on, year out, it has resulted in a decreased output and falling profitability on a very sad level.

It’s not me just saying this. An article by Kaieteur News on the 11th of this month stated that, and I quote, “The Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) cannot be sustained.” The estimated operating losses are more than $10B annually. $10 Billion down the pan! My dear proposition, you are trying to convince us that is what the gateway to Guyana’s future looks like? Dr. Clive Thomas, chairman of GuySuCo, who in a Kaieteur News report on the 11th of his very month, stated and I quote, “the assets of the industry are “rundown.” Dr. Clive also notes that it would cost the state over US$60M or $12B Guyana dollars) to repair the infamous 200 million dollar Skeldon factory alone.

This year alone, the industry had to be given 11 billion dollars. It is projected that this will continue with 18b to 20b needed as bailouts JUST to keep the business afloat and ensure its workers are paid. So esteemed proposition, how can you say that “the Agricultural Sector is the gateway to Guyana’s future” when its primary pillar, sugar, is crumbling to the extent of collapse?

Now, do you know what the most important resource of any nation is? Its people; human resource. This brings me back to my opening statement: that successfully educating a person results in the empowerment of that person. You teach that individual and they learn to be self-reliant, to be independent, to be resourceful. Knowledge is power. Education is power. And education builds a nation.

It goes without question that the education sector is significant to Guyana’s future. How can Guyana move forward if its populace is uneducated? The importance of education is reflected in the 2016 national budget where 40 Billion dollars was allocated to the education sector alone; whereas a mere 20 Billion was allocated to the agricultural sector. Improving education improves the capabilities of the future generation. With a richer knowledge base, they create, innovate, and develop new ideas that will drive our industries, bringing in a superior source of income to this country, more than we could ever hope to get from agriculture alone.

It is clear as daylight that the education sector of any country is the main gateway to its development . And for Guyana , it is no different.

So you see, learning proposition, the agricultural sector is NOT the gateway to Guyana’s future; it is an old path that will just lead to degradation and despair. In the past, it has indeed been the gateway to the future, but that future is gone, and we need a new direction; be it in education, mining or in oil. These surely are the gateway to Guyana’s future. Agriculture? No I don’t think so.

Thank you for listening.

Editor’s Note: Sandcreek was lauded for having used more statistics and factual evidences.

Debate: The Use of Police Powers by Way of the Imposition of Curfews and Lockdown is an Effective Strategy in Mitigating the impact of covid - 19 and Future Pandemics

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COMMENTS

How To Write An Opening Statement For A Debate?
Techniques And Styles For Writing An Opening Statement. One pattern of writing an opening statement is to start your debate by giving your audience a road map into the rest of the discourse. Using the opening statement as a strategy to achieve this requires that you have a holistic overview of what you intend to say.
How to Write a Winning Debate Speech
Here's a step-by-step guide on how to organize and facilitate a successful classroom debate: 1. Choose a Topic For Your Debate. Also called a resolution or a motion, the topic is sometimes chosen to debate. This is usually the case in a school activity to practice debating skills.
6 Easy Steps to Write a Debate Speech
Step 2: Defining the Topic. After your opening, you need to make the subject that you're talking about crystal-clear to your listeners. To do this, state your topic and your team's position on the topic. For example, "Today we're here to discuss the topic X.
Engaging in Debates: Crafting Your Opening Statement
Crafting an Engaging Opening Statement for Debates • Learn how to create a compelling opening statement for debates that sets the tone, engages the audience,...
How to Write a Debate Speech
Here is a standard debate speech format for a 20-15 minutes long debate: Opening Statements. Affirming Side: 5 minutes. Opposing Side: 5 minutes. Rebuttals (No New Arguments) Affirming Side: 3 minutes. Opposing Side: 3 minutes. Cross-Examination. Affirming Side to Opposing Side: 3 minutes.
How to Write a Debate Speech: 10 Steps (with Pictures)
1. Understand how debates work. You will be given a debate topic - this is called a "resolution." Your team must take a stance either affirmative or negative to the resolution. Sometimes you will be given the stance, and sometimes you will be asked to take a position. You may be asked to stand affirmative or negative.
4 Ways to Begin a Debate
Remember to maintain eye contact with an audience at the end of a sentence. Hold eye contact with an individual for only three to five seconds, then move on to someone else. Practice holding eye contact with someone you know for a minute or two. Repeat the exercise 5 or 6 times—that will really help a lot. 4.
How to Write an Opening and Closing Statement
Learn how to put these two important pieces of the debate together, and the major differences so the audience experiences them the way they are meant to be e...
How to Write a Debate Speech in English
Debate Speech Format. You can follow the following pattern for a debate speech. Opening Statements and Explanation. This section consists of the opening sentences by using three arguments with explaining questions. Pro Tema - Up to 5 minutes. Con Team - Up to 2 minutes. Con Team - Up to 5 minutes. Pro Team - Up to 2 minutes.
How to Write an Opening and Closing Statement 7.2
WSQ. At the end of this tutorial you wil: 1. Understand the components and differences between the opening and closing statements. In a debate group of 4-5 the most confident speaker will generally construct and perform the opening statement, the second most confident speaker will construct and perform the closing statement.
How to Make an Opening Statement in a Debate
What you say at the start of a debate sets the tone for the rest of your speech. If you want to come out on top during the opening statement, there are some important steps you need to take including planning, writing, practicing and delivering your statement with confidence.
What Are Examples Of Debate Opening Statements? Killer Debate Opening
The motion statement for the debate for this example is, technology harms our future. Your opening statement might be: Honorable Chair, our motion today is, technology harms our future. I take this opportunity to present my views against the motion. As we all know, there is always a status of balance for everything.
Debate Writing
The following are the main features of debate writing. Informative - A good debate must provide complete information and facts. It is supposed to inform and educate people with the help of logical reasoning. ... Greet your audience with enthusiasm, capturing their attention with a compelling opening statement that sets the tone for your debate ...
How To Debate: Mastering the Art of Persuasive Discourse
The opening statements serve as the foundation of a debate. Each participant or team presents their initial arguments and outlines their main points. This is the opportunity to establish a clear position, provide supporting evidence, and capture the audience's attention. Opening statements should be concise, persuasive, and set the stage for ...
How to Write an Opening Statement: 12 Steps (with Pictures)
Write your opening statement exactly as you want to present it; Reduce it to a general outline; then. Reduce it one last time to a key word outline that you may or may not use during your opening statement itself. 2. Practice your opening statement in front of an audience or in front of a mirror.
PDF The Debating Cheat Sheet
DO pass notes to each other during the debate if you come up with a good idea/rebuttal/etc. DO sound serious or passionate: your conviction can be very engaging. DO pause between arguments: it adds emphasis and makes it easier to follow your arguments. Do NOT tell us your names: they will already be on the mark sheet.
How to Deliver a Persuasive Opening Statement in a Debate
3 Grab their attention. The first few seconds of your opening statement are crucial for capturing the attention of your audience. You need to use a hook that will make them curious, interested, or ...
Complete Guide to Debating: How to Improve your Debating Skills
A debate is a structured contest over an issue or policy. There are two sides - one supporting, one opposing. Benefits of debating include: Allowing you to think about aspects and perspectives you may not have considered. Encourages you to speak strategically. Improving public speaking skills. Learning how to create a persuasive argument.
How to Write an Opening Statement (18 Best Examples)
Criminal trial. Opening statement example: "Ladies and gentlemen of the jury, today we embark on a quest for truth and justice. The prosecution will present evidence that will demonstrate beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant, Mr. John Roberts, committed the heinous crime he stands accused of.
10 Tips for effective opening and closing arguments
5) Stick to the script. Tell the jurors what the evidence shows or proves. And don't go off script. "You'll hear the opposing side's opening statement and want to respond, but don't do it," Soto said. "This is your case, don't forget it. Finish your opening statement strong with your theme.". 6) Play devil's advocate.
Debate Strategy
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How To Start A Debate On Any Subject
Begin by clearly stating the topic of the debate through a brief explanation or a thought-provoking question focusing on the subject. Make sure the issue is relevant to the curriculum or the lesson being discussed. Set clear guidelines and expectations. Establish the rules of engagement for the debate, such as time limits for speakers ...
An exposition on how to write a good debate.
A debater loses points for finishing more than 15 seconds before the allotted time, or 15 seconds after the allotted time. During each presentation, the debater must speak fluently, use gestures, accentuate keywords, and maintain a good posture. And this brings us to the parameters for judging a debate.
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NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim ...