speech meaning debate

Debate vs. Speech

What's the difference.

Debate and speech are both forms of public speaking, but they differ in their purpose and structure. A debate involves two or more individuals or teams presenting arguments and counterarguments on a specific topic. It requires participants to research, analyze, and defend their positions while also refuting their opponents' arguments. Debates are interactive and often involve questioning and rebuttals. On the other hand, a speech is a one-sided presentation where an individual shares their thoughts, ideas, or opinions on a particular subject. Speeches are typically prepared in advance and delivered to an audience without any direct opposition or debate. While both debate and speech require effective communication skills, debates focus on presenting arguments and engaging in a back-and-forth exchange, while speeches emphasize delivering a persuasive or informative message to an audience.

Further Detail

Introduction.

Debate and speech are two distinct forms of communication that are often used in various settings, including educational institutions, political arenas, and public speaking events. While both debate and speech involve presenting arguments and ideas to an audience, they differ in terms of structure, purpose, and delivery. In this article, we will explore the attributes of debate and speech, highlighting their unique characteristics and discussing their respective advantages and disadvantages.

One of the key differences between debate and speech lies in their structure. A debate typically follows a structured format where two opposing teams or individuals present arguments and counterarguments on a specific topic. Each team or individual is given a set amount of time to present their case, followed by a cross-examination period where they can challenge their opponents' arguments. On the other hand, a speech is a more individualistic form of communication where a single speaker presents their ideas or opinions without direct opposition or cross-examination.

In a debate, the structure often includes an opening statement, rebuttals, and a closing statement. The opening statement allows each team or individual to present their main arguments and set the tone for the debate. Rebuttals provide an opportunity to challenge the opposing side's arguments and offer counterarguments. Finally, the closing statement allows each team or individual to summarize their main points and leave a lasting impression on the audience.

On the other hand, a speech typically follows a more linear structure, starting with an introduction to grab the audience's attention, followed by the main body where the speaker presents their ideas or arguments in a logical sequence, and concluding with a memorable ending that reinforces the main message. Unlike a debate, a speech does not involve direct opposition or cross-examination, allowing the speaker to focus solely on presenting their ideas in a persuasive and engaging manner.

Another important aspect to consider when comparing debate and speech is their purpose. Debate is often used as a means to explore different perspectives on a particular topic and to engage in a structured argumentative discussion. It aims to provide a platform for individuals or teams to present their viewpoints, challenge opposing arguments, and ultimately persuade the audience to adopt their position. Debates are commonly used in educational settings to enhance critical thinking, public speaking skills, and the ability to construct persuasive arguments.

On the other hand, the purpose of a speech is typically to inform, inspire, entertain, or motivate the audience. Unlike a debate, a speech is not focused on direct opposition or convincing the audience of a specific viewpoint. Instead, it aims to convey a message, share personal experiences, or deliver a compelling narrative. Speeches are commonly used in various contexts, such as graduation ceremonies, political rallies, or TED talks, where the speaker's goal is to captivate the audience and leave a lasting impact.

The delivery of a debate and a speech also differs significantly. In a debate, the emphasis is placed on effective argumentation, logical reasoning, and the ability to counter opposing arguments. Debaters must be skilled in presenting their points clearly and concisely, while also being prepared to respond to challenges from their opponents. The delivery in a debate often involves a more formal and structured approach, with a focus on persuasive language, evidence-based arguments, and the ability to think on one's feet.

On the other hand, the delivery of a speech is more focused on engaging the audience through effective storytelling, emotional appeal, and rhetorical devices. A speaker must possess strong public speaking skills, including voice modulation, body language, and the ability to connect with the audience on an emotional level. Unlike a debate, a speech allows for more creativity and personal expression, as the speaker has the freedom to use anecdotes, humor, or powerful metaphors to convey their message.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Both debate and speech have their own advantages and disadvantages. One of the advantages of debate is that it encourages critical thinking and the ability to analyze different perspectives. Debaters learn to research, gather evidence, and construct well-reasoned arguments. Additionally, debates provide a platform for individuals to develop their public speaking skills, as they must present their arguments in a clear, concise, and persuasive manner. However, a disadvantage of debate is that it can sometimes become overly competitive or confrontational, focusing more on winning the argument rather than fostering constructive dialogue.

On the other hand, one of the advantages of speech is its ability to inspire and motivate the audience. A well-delivered speech can leave a lasting impact on listeners, evoking emotions and encouraging positive change. Speeches also allow for more personal expression and creativity, as speakers can share their own experiences and perspectives. However, a disadvantage of speech is that it lacks the structured opposition and critical analysis found in debates. Without direct challenges or cross-examination, the speaker may not face rigorous scrutiny of their ideas, potentially leading to a less balanced or thorough exploration of the topic.

In conclusion, while both debate and speech involve presenting arguments and ideas to an audience, they differ in terms of structure, purpose, and delivery. Debates follow a structured format with opposing teams or individuals presenting arguments and engaging in cross-examination, aiming to persuade the audience to adopt their position. Speeches, on the other hand, are more individualistic, focusing on conveying a message, inspiring the audience, or sharing personal experiences. Both forms of communication have their own advantages and disadvantages, and their suitability depends on the specific context and goals. Whether engaging in a lively debate or delivering a powerful speech, effective communication skills are essential for success.

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Speech vs Debate: Fundamental Differences Of These Terms

When it comes to communication, two words that are often used interchangeably are speech and debate. However, they are not the same thing. So, which one is the proper word to use? The answer is, it depends on the context.

Speech refers to the act of speaking or delivering a message to an audience. It can be a formal or informal address, and it can be delivered in a variety of settings, such as a conference, a wedding, or a classroom. On the other hand, debate is a formal discussion between two or more people, in which they present arguments and counterarguments on a specific topic, with the goal of convincing the audience or each other.

In this article, we will explore the differences between speech and debate, and how they can be used effectively in different situations.

Define Speech

Speech refers to the act of expressing thoughts, ideas, or emotions through spoken words. It is a form of communication that can take various forms, such as formal or informal, persuasive or informative, and impromptu or scripted. A speech can be delivered in front of an audience or recorded for later viewing or listening. The purpose of a speech can be to entertain, inspire, educate, or persuade the audience.

Define Debate

Debate is a formal discussion between two or more individuals or groups who present arguments and counterarguments on a specific topic. It is a structured and regulated process that involves rules, time limits, and a moderator or judge. The goal of a debate is to persuade the audience or the opposing side to accept a particular point of view or to reach a consensus. A debate can cover a wide range of topics, including politics, philosophy, science, and social issues.

How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence

Using the right words in a sentence is crucial in delivering an effective message. In this section, we will discuss how to use the words “speech” and “debate” properly in a sentence.

How To Use “Speech” In A Sentence

The word “speech” refers to the act of speaking or the ability to speak. It can also refer to a formal address or lecture given to an audience. Here are some examples of how to use “speech” in a sentence:

• She gave a moving speech at the graduation ceremony.
• The politician’s speech was well-received by the audience.
• Public speaking is a valuable skill that can be developed through practice.

When using “speech” in a sentence, it is important to consider the context in which it is being used. Is it referring to a formal address or simply the act of speaking? This will help ensure that the sentence is clear and concise.

How To Use “Debate” In A Sentence

The word “debate” refers to a formal discussion or argument in which opposing viewpoints are presented. It can also refer to the process of discussing and considering a topic or issue. Here are some examples of how to use “debate” in a sentence:

• The candidates engaged in a heated debate over healthcare policy.
• We need to have a debate about the pros and cons of this decision.
• The debate between the scientists centered around the validity of the study’s results.

When using “debate” in a sentence, it is important to consider the context in which it is being used. Is it referring to a formal argument or a more general discussion? This will help ensure that the sentence is clear and accurately conveys the intended meaning.

More Examples Of Speech & Debate Used In Sentences

In order to better understand the differences between speech and debate, it can be helpful to see them used in context. Here are some examples of how the terms might be used in sentences:

Examples Of Using Speech In A Sentence

• His speech at the conference was both informative and engaging.
• She gave an impassioned speech about the importance of education.
• The politician’s speech was met with both applause and criticism.
• He delivered a powerful speech that moved the entire audience to tears.
• The commencement speech inspired the graduates to pursue their dreams.
• She delivered a persuasive speech that convinced the jury of her client’s innocence.
• The CEO’s speech outlined the company’s plans for growth and expansion.
• His acceptance speech was humble and gracious.
• The keynote speaker’s speech was well-researched and thought-provoking.
• The motivational speaker’s speech inspired the audience to take action.

Examples Of Using Debate In A Sentence

• The candidates engaged in a heated debate about healthcare reform.
• The debate over climate change has been ongoing for decades.
• She participated in a debate competition in high school and won first place.
• The debate team spent hours researching and preparing their arguments.
• He was able to win the debate by using logic and evidence to support his points.
• The debate moderator asked tough questions that challenged the candidates’ positions.
• They had a friendly debate about the best way to train for a marathon.
• The debate between the two philosophers was a clash of ideas and perspectives.
• The debate coach provided valuable feedback to help the team improve their skills.
• After much debate, they finally agreed on a course of action.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

When it comes to public speaking, many people use the terms speech and debate interchangeably. However, these two terms are not synonymous and using them interchangeably can lead to confusion and miscommunication. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when using speech and debate:

Mistake 1: Using Speech And Debate Interchangeably

The biggest mistake people make is using speech and debate interchangeably. Speech refers to a formal address or talk given to an audience, while debate is a formal discussion on a particular topic in which opposing arguments are put forward. These two terms are not interchangeable and using them as such can lead to confusion and misunderstanding.

Mistake 2: Focusing On Winning Rather Than Learning

Another common mistake people make is focusing solely on winning rather than learning. While winning is important, the primary goal of debate is to learn more about a particular topic and to improve your critical thinking and communication skills. If you focus solely on winning, you may miss out on valuable learning opportunities.

Mistake 3: Ignoring The Importance Of Research

Research is a crucial component of both speech and debate. Ignoring the importance of research can lead to weak arguments and a lack of credibility. Make sure to thoroughly research your topic and use credible sources to support your arguments.

Tips To Avoid These Mistakes

• Be clear on the difference between speech and debate
• Focus on learning rather than winning
• Thoroughly research your topic and use credible sources
• Practice your public speaking and debate skills regularly

Context Matters

When it comes to communication, context matters. The choice between speech and debate can depend on the context in which they are used. While both speech and debate involve public speaking, they serve different purposes and are better suited for different situations. Understanding the context in which you are speaking can help you determine whether a speech or a debate is more appropriate.

Examples Of Different Contexts

Here are some examples of different contexts and how the choice between speech and debate might change:

Ultimately, the choice between speech and debate depends on the context in which they are used. By considering the purpose of your communication and the expectations of your audience, you can determine which form of public speaking is most appropriate for your situation.

Exceptions To The Rules

While speech and debate are generally used in specific contexts, there are some exceptions where the rules for using them might not apply. Here are a few examples:

1. Casual Conversations

When having casual conversations, the rules for speech and debate do not necessarily apply. In these situations, people often use informal language and may not follow strict rules of logic or argumentation. Instead, they may use personal anecdotes, jokes, or other rhetorical devices to make a point or entertain their listeners. For example, if you’re chatting with a friend about your favorite TV show, you might use hyperbole or sarcasm to express your opinion, rather than making a formal argument.

2. Creative Writing

In creative writing, authors often use language in unconventional ways to create a specific effect or mood. They may use metaphor, imagery, or other literary devices to convey a message or evoke an emotional response from the reader. While some of the principles of speech and debate may apply to persuasive writing, such as using evidence to support a claim, creative writing is generally more focused on storytelling and artistic expression than on making a logical argument.

3. Diplomacy

In diplomatic contexts, such as international negotiations or peace talks, the rules for speech and debate may be more flexible than in other situations. Diplomats often use language strategically to build relationships, establish trust, and find common ground with their counterparts. They may use flattery, humor, or other tactics to diffuse tensions or break down barriers between conflicting parties. While logic and evidence are still important in diplomacy, the emphasis is often on finding compromise and building consensus rather than winning a debate.

Overall, while the rules for speech and debate are important in many contexts, there are some exceptions where they may not apply. By understanding these exceptions and the different ways language can be used, we can become more effective communicators in a variety of situations.

Practice Exercises

Improving one’s understanding and use of speech and debate requires consistent practice. Here are some exercises that can help:

1. Sentence Structure Practice

Constructing well-formed sentences is crucial in both speech and debate. Here’s an exercise to help improve sentence structure:

2. Persuasive Language Practice

Persuasion is a key component of both speech and debate. Here’s an exercise to help improve persuasive language:

• Instructions: Choose a controversial topic and write a persuasive speech or essay arguing for your position. Use persuasive language techniques such as rhetorical questions, emotional appeals, and parallelism.
• Answer Key: The answer key will vary depending on the topic and the writer’s skill level. However, the speech or essay should effectively persuade the audience using persuasive language techniques.

3. Logical Reasoning Practice

Logical reasoning is essential in both speech and debate. Here’s an exercise to help improve logical reasoning:

• Instructions: Choose a topic and write a speech or essay using logical reasoning to support your argument. Use techniques such as deductive reasoning, inductive reasoning, and syllogisms.
• Answer Key: The answer key will vary depending on the topic and the writer’s skill level. However, the speech or essay should effectively use logical reasoning to support the argument.

By consistently practicing exercises like these, readers can improve their understanding and use of speech and debate in various contexts.

After exploring the differences between speech and debate, it is clear that while both require effective communication skills, they serve different purposes. Speech is typically used to inform, persuade, or entertain an audience, while debate involves presenting arguments and counterarguments to support a particular position.

It is important to understand the nuances of each form of communication in order to be successful in both personal and professional settings. By mastering the art of speech, individuals can become more effective presenters, while those who excel in debate can become skilled negotiators and advocates.

Key Takeaways

• Speech and debate are two distinct forms of communication with different goals and objectives.
• Speech is used to inform, persuade, or entertain, while debate involves presenting arguments and counterarguments to support a position.
• Both forms of communication require effective language use and grammar skills.
• Mastering the art of speech and debate can lead to success in personal and professional settings.

Overall, it is clear that understanding the differences between speech and debate is essential for effective communication. By continuing to learn and improve our language use and grammar skills, we can become more successful communicators in all aspects of our lives.

Shawn Manaher is the founder and CEO of The Content Authority. He’s one part content manager, one part writing ninja organizer, and two parts leader of top content creators. You don’t even want to know what he calls pancakes.

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Definition of debate

 (Entry 1 of 2)

Definition of debate  (Entry 2 of 2)

transitive verb

intransitive verb

• consideration
• deliberation
• contemplate
• kick around
• mull (over)
• pore (over)
• think (about or over)
• wrestle (with)

discuss , argue , debate mean to discourse about in order to reach conclusions or to convince.

discuss implies a sifting of possibilities especially by presenting considerations pro and con.

argue implies the offering of reasons or evidence in support of convictions already held.

debate suggests formal or public argument between opposing parties

; it may also apply to deliberation with oneself.

Examples of debate in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'debate.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Verb and Noun

Middle English, from Anglo-French debatre , from de- + batre to beat, from Latin battuere

13th century, in the meaning defined above

14th century, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense 3

Phrases Containing debate

• a matter of debate
• open to debate
• under debate

Dictionary Entries Near debate

Cite this entry.

“Debate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/debate. Accessed 11 Jun. 2024.

Kids Definition

Kids definition of debate.

Kids Definition of debate  (Entry 2 of 2)

More from Merriam-Webster on debate

Nglish: Translation of debate for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of debate for Arabic Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about debate

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Debate Writing

Debate Speech

A Comprehensive Guide to Preparing and Delivering A Debate Speech

Published on: Mar 9, 2022

Last updated on: Jan 31, 2024

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Whether you are a student, a policymaker, or a business leader, the ability to debate effectively can be a game-changer. 

Debate speeches are important for anyone wanting to persuade others. However, writing and delivering a debate speech isn’t easy, especially if you are new to the process. 

This guide explains simple steps on how to write and deliver an excellent debate speech. It covers everything from preparing your arguments to delivering your speech with confidence and conviction.

So dive in to learn!   

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What is a Debate Speech?

A debate speech is a structured argument on a specific topic that is presented in a formal setting.  

The main purpose of debate speech is to:  

• Express your point of view persuasively and effectively
• Convince the opposition that you are right.
• Change the people’s point of view on a particular topic.

In a debate speech, the speaker presents their argument in a clear, concise, and convincing manner. Debate speeches have a set time limit, and the speaker must use their time effectively to make their case and address counterarguments. 

Preparing for a Debate Speech 

You can only win your debate if you have spent time preparing it well. Follow the steps below to be prepared for your next debate speech.

Understanding the Debate Format 

It's essential to understand the format of the debate in which you want to participate. Different debate formats have specific rules and guidelines that you need to follow to succeed. 

Some popular types of debates include parliamentary, Lincoln-Douglas, and policy debates.

• Parliamentary debate is a format where two teams of two or three members argue for or against a motion. It is presided over by a moderator. In this format, debaters have limited preparation time to gather information and construct their arguments.
• Lincoln-Douglas debate is a one-on-one debate where debaters argue for their positions on a specific topic. This format usually involves a value system and a criterion that the debaters must uphold and defend.
• Policy debate is a format where two teams of two members argue for or against a specific policy proposal. This format requires in-depth research and analysis of the policy and its potential implications.

Selecting a Position

Choose a topic that you are passionate about and that you feel strongly about. Once you have chosen a topic, narrow it down to a specific aspect that you can argue for or against. 

The clearer your position, the easier it will be to research and prepare your arguments.

Need some good debate topic ideas to get started? Check out our list of interesting and engaging debate topics to help you out!

Researching and Gathering Information

Once you have selected your topic, research it thoroughly. Gather as much information as you can from credible sources such as academic journals, news articles, and government reports. 

Take detailed notes, and make sure to record the sources you use so that you can reference them later.

Understanding Both Sides of the Argument 

To write a persuasive debate speech, it is important to understand both sides of the argument. 

Consider the arguments that your opponents might make and anticipate counterarguments. This will help you to strengthen your own arguments and address potential weaknesses in your position.

Organizing Your Arguments 

Once you have gathered all of the information you need, organize your arguments in a clear and logical way. 

Start by outlining the main points you want to make and then add supporting evidence to each point. Make sure that your arguments flow logically and build on each other.

Practicing Your Delivery

Finally, practice your delivery. Read your speech out loud several times to get a feel for how it flows. 

Time yourself to make sure that you can fit all of your arguments into the allotted time. Consider practicing in front of a friend or family member to get feedback on your delivery.

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How to Present a Debate Speech?

This type of speech requires some essential components. Here are the major components you need to present an effective debate speech. 

1. Catchy Introduction

The first important step is starting the debate with a compelling introduction. You can begin with a question, a quote, or a statistic related to the topic.

Moreover, your introduction should state your stance on the topic and provides a preview of your arguments. 

2. State the Problem & Define Key Terms

Define key terms in your speech that are important to your argument. This helps to ensure that your audience understands the meaning of the words you use.

3. Present Your Arguments

Present your arguments in a clear and logical order. Start with your strongest argument and provide evidence to support it. Then, move on to the weaker arguments and provide evidence for each one.

A good argument often follows the PEE structure, which means “Point, Evidence, Explanation (PEE)”.

• Point or Reason: This is where you state your main idea or argument, providing a concise and clear statement of your position. The point should be specific, focused, and relevant to the topic at hand. It serves as the foundation for your argument
• Evidence: Here, you provide supporting evidence to bolster your argument. This can take the form of examples, statistics, or any other relevant information that helps illustrate your point. 
• Explanation: In this part, you elaborate on how the evidence you provided supports your point. This is where you explain the relationship between your point and the evidence, highlighting its significance

4. Rebuttals 

Address counterarguments by acknowledging the opposing viewpoints and refuting them with evidence. This is called a rebuttal. 

It shows that you have considered both sides of the argument and strengthens your own position. Addressing counterarguments through rebuttals is a vital aspect of constructing a well-rounded and persuasive argument. 

Rebuttals involve presenting evidence that challenges the opposing counter-arguments and weakens their validity. Additionally, it is crucial to explain the flaws or fallacies in the opposing arguments during the process of rebuttal.

5. Conclusion

End your speech with a strong conclusion that summarizes your arguments and restates your stance on the topic. You can also end with a call to action, encouraging your audience to take action based on your argument.

Tips for Presenting a Debate Speech Effectively

The above steps will help you prepare and present an acceptable speech, but you can improve it even more with the tips below.

• Use Clear and Concise Language

Speak clearly and use language that is easy to understand. Avoid using jargon or complex words that might confuse your audience.

• Emphasize Key Points

Highlight the key points of your argument by using vocal inflection and tone. Emphasize important words or phrases to help your audience remember your key arguments.

• Use Body Language and Gestures

Body language and gestures can help to reinforce your arguments and make your speech more engaging. Use hand gestures to emphasize key points, and vary your posture and movement to keep your audience interested.

• Maintain Eye Contact

Maintain eye contact with your audience throughout your speech. This will help to establish a connection with them and make them feel more engaged with your argument.

• Use Vocal Variety and Tone

Vary your vocal tone and pace to add interest and emphasis to your speech. Use pauses and changes in pace to emphasize important points, and vary your volume to make your arguments more impactful.

• Use the Debate Speech Checklist

Here is a checklist that can help you evaluate your debate.

• Does your speech cover your opinion about the topic?
• Does your speech start with a catchy hook?
• Does your speech cover all the main points?
• Does your speech provide sufficient counterarguments?
• Does your speech contain enough evidence?
• Does your speech provide a call to action to the conclusion?

Debate Speech Examples 

Here are some examples to help you prepare and present your debate speech better. 

Debate Speech Structure

Debate Speech Template

Debate Speech Sample

Writing and delivering a successful debate speech requires careful planning, research, and effective communication skills. 

By following the steps and tips provided above, you can persuade your audience effectively and make a lasting impact. Remember to practice, rehearse, and be confident in your abilities. 

Still need expert help in writing your speech? We’ve got you covered! 

CollegeEssay.org is here to assist you. We are an expert speech writing service with a team of experienced professionals. 

Our AI essay writing tools can help you at every step of the speech-writing process, from selecting a topic to gathering evidence.

We provide customized, high-quality writing services at an affordable price. You can also take advantage from our AI essay writer tool to improve your writing skills.

So why wait? Contact our professional essay writing service and impress your audience with an amazing speech!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the 4 types of debate.

The four main types of debate are: 

• Parliamentary Debate 
• Lincoln-Douglas Debate 
• Cross-Examination Debate 
• Academic Debate 

What are the 2 sides of a debate called?

The opposition and proposition are the two sides of a debate. 

Caleb S. (Literature, Marketing)

Caleb S. has extensive experience in writing and holds a Masters from Oxford University. He takes great satisfaction in helping students exceed their academic goals. Caleb always puts the needs of his clients first and is dedicated to providing quality service.

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How to Write a Debate Speech

Last Updated: May 10, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Patrick Muñoz . Patrick is an internationally recognized Voice & Speech Coach, focusing on public speaking, vocal power, accent and dialects, accent reduction, voiceover, acting and speech therapy. He has worked with clients such as Penelope Cruz, Eva Longoria, and Roselyn Sanchez. He was voted LA's Favorite Voice and Dialect Coach by BACKSTAGE, is the voice and speech coach for Disney and Turner Classic Movies, and is a member of Voice and Speech Trainers Association. There are 9 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. 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 1,511,456 times.

So, you've joined debate, and it's time to write a debate speech. There are some tried and true methods to writing an effective debate speech. If you understand them, and the components that make up a standard debate speech, you will increase your chances of success.

Sample Speeches

Preparing for the Debate Speech

• You may be asked to stand affirmative or negative. In LD (Lincoln-Douglas debate), the first affirmative speech will be at most 7 minutes long, and the first negative speech will be at most 6 minutes. [1] X Research source
• The speakers then present arguments against the earlier affirmative or negative speech that was just read. Speakers must listen carefully and be able to counter arguments. There are two segments involving cross-examination (CX), in which the debaters are allowed to ask questions and openly debate the topic. This is most often called cross-examination, or cx for short, and occurs after the first affirmative speech, and the first negative speech.
• The best thing you can do to better understand LD/PF/Policy debate is practice and research.

• Brainstorm the topic, and research it before you sit down to write. Write out a list of key components for both sides of the issue. If you are on a debate team, do this together. Each member could discuss the key component list, in order to figure out which issues you want to cover in each speech.
• Spend some time at the library or on the Internet using credible sources to research the key reasons that seem strongest. Use books, scholarly journals, credible newspapers, and the like. Be very cautious about unverified information bandied about on the Internet.
• You will also want prepare to deal with the strongest arguments your opponent(s) might make. Ignoring the other side’s best arguments can weaken your rhetorical appeal.

• A basic debate outline should contain six parts: An attention-getter, your stated stance (aff or neg)/ restatement of the resolution, your definitions, your value, criterion, and contentions.
• You can break each of those six parts into subcategories. It’s often a good idea to write the contentions last, focusing on the value and criterion to hold it up first.

Writing the Debate Speech

• You should address the jury or audience with formal salutations. For example, you could say something like, “Good morning, ladies and gentlemen.” Debates are very formal in tone.
• Making a good first impression with the judges is very important. This leads judges to assume the debater is persuasive. One technique to write a strong introduction is to contextualize the topic, especially in relation to real world events. [6] X Trustworthy Source American Bar Association Leading professional organization of lawyers and law students Go to source
• Introductions can also focus on prominent examples, quotations, or on a personal anecdote that can help establish a rapport with the audience and judges. Be careful using humor; it involves risks and can lead to awkward silences if not done right. Find a relevant specific that illustrates the underlying point.

• Don’t muddle your position. It needs to be extremely clear whether you affirm or negate the resolution, so don’t hem and haw and contradict yourself. The audience also should not have to wait until the end to find out. Make your stance very clear, and do it early on
• For example, you could say, “my partner and I firmly negate (or affirm) the resolution which states that unilateral military force by the United States is justified to prevent nuclear proliferation.” [7] X Research source

• A good rule of thumb is to back up your position with 3-4 strong points of supporting argumentation. You definitely need to have more than 1 or 2 key points to back up the stance you have taken.
• The body of the speech – the key points and their development – should be, by far, the longest part of the debate speech (perhaps 3 ½ minutes to 30 seconds for an opening and for a conclusion, depending on the rules of the debate you are doing).

• Focus on the causes of the problem, the effects of the problem, expert opinion, examples, statistics, and present a solution. Try to use visual images, not just generic terms – show don’t tell, and illustrate a point with details.
• Appeal to the motives and emotions of the listener with a light touch. Appeal to their sense of fair play, desire to save, to be helpful, to care about community, etc. Ground examples in how people are affected.
• Try using rhetorical questions, which make your opponents consider the validity of their point; irony, which undermines their point and makes you seem more mature and intelligent; simile, which gives them something to relate to; humor, which gets the audience on your side when done well; and repetition, which reinforces your point.

• Aristotle believed that speakers were more persuasive if they combined elements of logos (persuasion by reasoning) with pathos (having an element of emotional appeal) and ethos (an appeal based on the character of the speaker) - for example, that they seem intelligent or of good will.
• There are two ways to use logic – inductive (which makes the case with measurable evidence like statistics or a specific anecdote or example) and deductive (which makes the case by outlining a general principle that is related to the specific topic to infer a conclusion from it - as in, I oppose all wars except those involving imminent self defense; thus, I must oppose this one because it's a war that was not in imminent self defense, and here's why). Or the reverse.
• You should use pathos sparingly. Emotional appeal on its own can be dangerous. Logos - the appeal to reason - should be at the core. However, logical appeal without any pathos at all can render a speech dry and dull. Consider what you are trying to make your audience feel. Explaining how a topic affects real people is one way to use pathos well.

Concluding the Debate Speech

• One strong way to conclude a debate speech is to bookend the conclusion with the opening, by referring back to the introduction and tying the conclusion into the same theme.
• Quotations can be a good way to end a speech. You can also end with a brief summation of the key arguments of the speech to ensure they remain fresh in judges’ minds.

• Use a clear , loud voice, and be careful to watch pacing. You don’t want to speak too loud or too slowly. Remember that confidence goes a long way toward persuasion.

Expert Q&A

Reader Videos

• Never add new points in your speech because you still have time, as you might not present it in the best way. When you are nervous, you might even say an argument in favor of the other side and you don't want that. Thanks Helpful 32 Not Helpful 2
• Never degrade your topic. Thanks Helpful 33 Not Helpful 3
• Don't use all your points in your debate- in an actual debate, it is sometimes useful to have other information to cite if the argument starts going their way Thanks Helpful 30 Not Helpful 3

Tips from our Readers

• You can make a sample opening and closing speech beforehand so you can focus more time on developing your arguments during the actual debate.
• Make sure to include rebuttals in your speech, as they are just as important as your main arguments.
• Practice as much as possible — it will make you more confident and help you maintain eye contact.
• Imagine you're just practicing with a friend rather than performing in front of an audience.
• Take deep breaths before starting to ease nerves.

• Remember, just because you can write a debate speech, it doesn't mean you can say a debate speech effectively. Practice! Thanks Helpful 22 Not Helpful 5

You Might Also Like

• ↑ http://www.learndebating.com/english/DEBATING.pdf
• ↑ https://guides.lib.uw.edu/research/faq/reliable
• ↑ Patrick Muñoz. Voice & Speech Coach. Expert Interview. 12 November 2019.
• ↑ https://www.hamilton.edu/academics/centers/oralcommunication/guides/how-to-outline-a-speech
• ↑ https://www.americanbar.org/groups/litigation/resources/newsletters/trial-evidence/five-tips-engaging-opening-statements/
• ↑ http://www.oxfordsd.org/Page/5582
• ↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/argument/
• ↑ https://www.comm.pitt.edu/persuasive-speaking
• ↑ https://www.comm.pitt.edu/speech-anxiety

About This Article

To write a debate speech, start by researching the topic thoroughly with credible and scholarly sources, and make an outline of your argument including an introduction, thesis argument, key points, and conclusion. Write the thesis argument and develop 3-4 strong points of argumentation. Be sure to clearly state your stance, and utilize expert opinions, statistics, and examples to support your opinion. To finish the speech, write an interesting introduction that incorporates your thesis and a brief conclusion that summarizes your main points. If you want to learn more, such as how to make your debate speech persuasive, keep reading the article! 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.

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

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Struggling to compose an impactful debate speech that captivates your audience and secures a win? 

You're not alone. Crafting a persuasive and well-structured debate speech is a challenge faced by numerous students. The process of articulating your thoughts, organizing arguments can be challenging.

However, fear not! This blog post is your comprehensive guide, presenting a step-by-step approach to empower you in constructing a debate speech. We’ve included examples and tips to make sure your speech captures attention and ensures a compelling and victorious performance.

So, keep reading.

• 1. What Is A Debate Speech?
• 2. How To Prepare For Debate Speech?
• 3. Debate Speech Examples for Students
• 4. Tips for an Effective Debate Speech
• 5. Debate Speech Topics

What Is A Debate Speech?

A debate speech is a formal presentation where you argue for or against a specific topic. 

It involves structured arguments presented in different sections, aiming to persuade the audience with facts and convincing points. It's a way of discussing and trying to show why your side is the right one on a particular subject.

Key Elements of A Debate Speech

A debate typically includes several essential elements to effectively communicate your position and persuade the audience. These elements form the building blocks of a strong debate speech:

• Opening Statements: These kick off the debate, presenting the main arguments for your side or against the motion. It sets the tone for the discussion.
• Rebuttals: In this stage, you respond to the arguments made by the opposing side, highlighting weaknesses or presenting counterpoints.
• Summary: Towards the end of the debate, a summary is provided to reinforce your main arguments and explain why your perspective is stronger. This section aims to leave a lasting impression on the audience.
• Use of Evidence: Supporting your arguments with evidence, facts, and examples strengthens your position and makes your speech more convincing.
• Logical Reasoning: Presenting arguments in a clear, logical sequence enhances the coherence and persuasiveness of your speech.
• Rhetorical Appeal: Adding appeals like ethos, pathos and logos to your speech can engage the audience, making your points more relatable and impactful.

How To Prepare For Debate Speech?

Creating a compelling debate speech requires a methodical approach that ensures a clear, convincing, and organized presentation. Let's delve into the detailed steps for an effective preparation:

Choosing a Position

Start by selecting a clear stance or position regarding the debate topic. Decide whether you are arguing for or against the motion. Understanding and committing to your position forms the foundation of your speech.

Conducting Thorough Research

Gathering information for your debate speech is really important. Look at different sources like books, reliable websites, and experts' ideas. 

Find facts, numbers, and real stories that support what you want to say. It's key to use strong and trusted information that backs up your side of the argument. 

When you collect different types of information, it makes your speech stronger and more convincing. This way, you'll be well-prepared to explain your ideas during the debate.

Structure The Key Points

After research and collecting points, organize your main arguments in a clear and logical manner to effectively convey your position in the debate. Set sufficient time to each key point to ensure they're adequately developed and presented. 

You can do this by following a debate format. Here is a standard debate speech format for a 20-15 minutes long debate:

How to Start a Debate Speech

Crafting a compelling opening for your speech involves capturing the audience's attention while introducing key points of discussion. 

You can achieve this by using attention-grabbing techniques such as sharing an eye-opening fact, a powerful quote, or a personal anecdote related to the topic. 

Additionally, it's beneficial to briefly outline the key areas of discussion that you'll cover in your speech. By providing a sneak peek of the main points, you offer the audience a roadmap of what's to come. 

This not only piques the audience's interest but also helps them anticipate and follow the structure of your speech.

Structure Your Arguments

Structuring arguments in the debate speech means organizing your ideas in a way that makes sense to others. 

A well-structured argument often uses the P-E-E format, which stands for Point, Evidence, Explanation (P-E-E):

• Point or Reason: Begin by stating your main argument or reason. This is the central idea you want to convey in support of your position.
• Evidence: Provide evidence, facts, or examples that support your point. This evidence should be reliable and back up what you're saying.
• Explanation: Explain how your evidence supports your point. Make it clear to your audience why this evidence is important and how it links to your argument.

This structure helps make your arguments more persuasive and clear. It enables you to present your points effectively, support them with evidence, and explain why that evidence matters in the context of your argument.

Address Counterarguments (Rebuttals)

Addressing counterarguments involves anticipating the opposing viewpoints and crafting responses, known as rebuttals , within your speech. A rebuttal is a persuasive counter-argument that challenges or opposes the points raised by the other side.

By thinking ahead and having strong responses, you showcase a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter. 

This approach makes your argument stronger and shows your skill in defending your position, boosting your speech's credibility.

How to End a Debate Speech

Concluding your debate speech effectively is as important as starting it strong. Here are two impactful ways to conclude your speech:

• Summarize Key Points with a Call to Action Example: "In conclusion, the evidence overwhelmingly supports the idea that [your stance on the topic]. As we leave here today, let's not merely acknowledge the importance of [debate topic] but commit to [call to action], ensuring a brighter future for all."
• End with a Powerful Quote or Statement Example: "As [relevant figure] once wisely said, '[insert impactful quote].' Let these words guide us in our understanding of [debate topic]. Together, we can [highlight the desired outcome or change]."

Review And Practice

The last step is to review and practice a lot. Read through your speech to make sure it all makes sense and fits the time limit. 

Practice how you talk, how fast or slow, and how you use your body while speaking. Also, be ready to answer questions or handle different arguments. 

Do a few final practice rounds to feel more confident and comfortable. This way, you'll be well-prepared and ready to deliver a strong debate speech.

Debate Speech Examples for Students

For students, understanding how to structure and present a debate speech is crucial. Here are some debate speech samples to help you grasp the basics of debating:

First Speaker Debate Speech Example

2nd Speaker Debate Speech Example

3rd Speaker Debate Speech Example

Short Example Of Debate Speech

Debate Speech Structure

Examples can serve as a great starting point. Check out more expertly crafted debate examples for inspiration!

Tips for an Effective Debate Speech

Crafting a persuasive and impactful debate speech requires careful consideration and strategic planning. Here are key tips to enhance the effectiveness of your presentation:

• Tailor language to match the audience's demographics and interests.
• Strengthen arguments with credible sources and diverse perspectives.
• Organize with a clear introduction, well-developed body, and strong conclusion for a logical flow.
• Capture attention with a compelling quote, question, or anecdote.
• Support arguments with relevant statistics, examples, and real-world scenarios.
• Anticipate opposing viewpoints and incorporate strong rebuttals.
• Clearly articulate and repeat key ideas to reinforce your stance.
• Maintain a dynamic and engaging delivery by varying tone and pace.
• Pay attention to body language, eye contact, and gestures.
• Allocate time wisely for each speech segment to ensure a well-paced presentation.
• Be prepared to adapt to unexpected changes during the debate.
• Practice multiple times to enhance clarity, emphasis, and pacing, boosting confidence.

Need to polish your debate? Have a look at this in-depth blog on debate techniques and get effective tips!

Debate Speech Topics

Here are some unique topic ideas for you to write a debate on.

• Credit cards are more harmful than debit cards.
• We are becoming too dependent on technology.
• Marriage is an outdated concept.
• Homework is necessary with regard to the learning process.
• Being a college graduate in the United States is necessary for a successful career.
• It is a good idea to have laptops in classrooms.
• Facebook is a better social platform than Twitter.
• Cell phones can be used as educational tools.
• Junk food must be banned in high schools and colleges.
• The Prime Minister of any state enjoys more power than the president.

Can’t pick a topic? Check out this extensive blog with multiple debate topics and get unique ideas!

You are now better equipped to confidently prepare and deliver your debate speech.

However, if public speaking isn’t your forte or it feels overwhelming, our service is here to help. 

Simply buy speech from our expert writers and receive a persuasive and effective piece of writing. Plus, with our satisfaction guarantee, you can get your speech revised as many times as you want. 

So, just ask us to " write an essay for me " and let us help you!

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The Power of Speech & Debate Education

Debate is a valuable activity for students of all skill levels.  Debate teaches useful skills for other academic pursuits and life more generally.   Most obviously, debaters build confidence speaking in public and expressing their ideas eloquently.  That comfort speaking in front of others is useful in so many areas of life, from interviews to school presentations to discussions in college seminars.

But the benefits of debating are not limited to the skills built while students are speaking—the preparation for competition teaches critical thinking and research skills, as well.  As F. Scott Fitzgerald once said, “The test of a first-rate intelligence is the ability to hold two opposed ideas in mind at the same time and still retain the ability to function.”  Debate tests and builds that ability by forcing students to see both sides of issues.  Debaters flex their analytical muscles, learning to find the weak points in opponent’s arguments.  They learn to explain their own ideas and assess different viewpoints, whether in a debate round, a political discussion, a classroom, or a written essay.  And debate requires students to research their ideas and support them with evidence, teaching them to conduct research and assess sources.  According to Arne Duncan, then-Secretary of Education , debate is “uniquely suited” to build skills required of a modern citizen, including critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and creativity.

Those skills help students express their thoughts better in their academic work and their college applications (not to mention around your dinner table!).   The College Board recently revamped the SAT test to focus more on exactly the sorts of skills debate teaches.  As the New York Times explained , students taking the new version of the test must write “a critical response to a specific argument” based on analysis rather than personal experience.  Debaters are used to responding to unfamiliar arguments in time-sensitive situations; thinking critically about a written passage on the SAT is not so different from responding to an opponent’s argument in a debate round.  Debaters likewise outscore non-debaters on every section of the ACT .  Studies across the country have found that high school debate improves reading ability, grades, school attendance, self-esteem, and interest in school.  Duffin, Frank, Latitudes in Learning, “Debate Across the Curriculum Results” (2005).  Many universities even offer scholarships specifically for college debaters .

For those who commit to speech and debate, it offers a lifetime of benefits.  Forbes published an article titled “How to Find the Millennials Who Will Lead Your Company,” suggesting that the leaders of the future are ex-debaters.  As that article notes, debate teaches “how to persuade, how to present clearly, and how to connect with an audience,” exactly the skills businesses look for in their young employees.  You’ll find ex-debaters in every area of public life, from Bruce Springsteen to Oprah Winfrey to Nelson Mandela.  60% of Congressional representatives participated in debate, as well as at least a third of the Supreme Court.  There are ex-debaters excelling in business, law, politics, academia, and many other fields.

Perhaps most important of all, debate is fun!  You may have to cajole your son or daughter to go to their test prep class or do their homework, but debate makes learning a game; students build their critical thinking and speaking skills without it ever feeling like work.   Debate gives students a rare opportunity to take ownership over their own intellectual development.  And throughout the years of practice and competition, debate builds lifelong friendships and community, teaching teamwork as well. 

For help getting started with competitive speech & debate, please visit our how to select the right program & format guide .

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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

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. 

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.

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.

OTHER GREAT ARTICLES RELATED TO DEBATING

The Ultimate Guide to Opinion Writing for Students and Teachers

Top 5 Persuasive Writing Techniques for Students

5 Top Persuasive Writing Lesson Plans for Students and Teachers

23 Persuasive writing Topics for High School students

How to Write Perfect Persuasive Essays in 5 Simple Steps

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.

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Speech and Debate Glossary

As with any specialized activity, jargon and abbreviations pervade speech and debate activities. This guide covers some of the most essential terms of art that will alleviate your uncertainty as a new coach, as well as the hesitancy any students new to speech and debate may feel.

Complete Guide to Debating: Improve your Debating Skills

In the world of communication and persuasion, mastering the art of debate is a skill that can truly set you apart. Whether you're a student, a professional, or simply someone who wants to express their opinions more effectively, understanding how to speak during a debate and how to develop debating skills is essential.

After all, debates provide a platform to express ideas, challenge perspectives, and influence others through logical arguments and persuasive communication. If you've ever wondered how to do a debate or how to become a more skilled debater, you've come to the right place.

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the intricacies of debating skills, explore the debate rules, and provide valuable insights on improving your performance. SoME, your go-to source for professional courses, is here to equip you with the tools and techniques you need to excel in the world of debating.

Let's dive in and discover the secrets to becoming a confident and compelling debater.

Understanding the Basics of Debating

Are you ready to delve into the fascinating world of debating?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of improving your skills, it's essential to grasp the fundamentals.

In this section, we'll explore the definition of debating, the different types of debates you might encounter, and the key elements that make up a successful debate.

So, let's get started!

Definition of Debating

Debating can be defined as a structured discussion where participants present arguments and counterarguments on a specific topic.

It's a dynamic exchange of ideas, where individuals express their viewpoints while actively engaging with opposing perspectives.

Debating goes beyond mere persuasion; it requires logical reasoning, research, and effective communication to make a compelling case for your side.

Different Types of Debates

1. formal debates.

Formal debates follow a predefined structure and set of rules. These debates often take place in academic or competitive settings.

They involve teams representing different sides of an argument and follow a specific format, such as the Oxford-style or the Karl Popper-style debates.

Formal debates typically have designated speakers and time limits for each segment, ensuring a fair and organised discussion.

2. Parliamentary Debates

Parliamentary debates mimic the proceedings of a legislative assembly, where participants engage in a lively discussion on a given topic. These debates involve teams or individuals representing different political parties or viewpoints.

Parliamentary debates focus on persuasion, reasoning, and the ability to think on your feet. They require quick thinking and adaptability to address the arguments presented by opponents.

3. Public Debates

Public debates are open to a larger audience and often occur in community settings or as part of public events. They aim to engage the public in important social, political, or environmental discussions.

Public debates allow individuals from diverse backgrounds to voice their opinions, learn from others, and foster understanding.

4. Lincoln-Douglas Debates

Originating from the famous debates between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen A. Douglas, Lincoln-Douglas debates focus on moral and philosophical topics.

They typically involve two individuals presenting their arguments and engaging in a detailed discussion. These debates emphasise logical reasoning, ethical considerations, and the ability to develop a coherent and persuasive case.

Key Elements of a Debate

1. opening statements.

The debate begins with opening statements, where each participant introduces their position and outlines their main arguments.

The opening statements set the stage for the ensuing discussion and provide an initial overview of each side's perspective.

2. Arguments and Counterarguments

A debate revolves around presenting strong arguments and countering the opposing arguments.

Participants must support their claims with evidence, statistics, expert opinions, or logical reasoning.

Anticipating and effectively addressing counter arguments is crucial to strengthening your position.

3. Rebuttals

Rebuttals allow participants to challenge and refute the arguments presented by the opposing side.

This is an opportunity to address weaknesses in the opposing case and reinforce the strength of your own arguments.

4. Cross-Examination

Cross-examination involves questioning the opposing side's arguments or seeking clarification on their position.

It requires critical thinking, active listening, and the ability to think on your feet. Cross-examination can help uncover flaws in opposing arguments and strengthen your own position.

5. Summation

At the end of the debate, participants deliver closing statements summarising their key points and reinforcing the overall strength of their arguments.

Summation provides a final opportunity to leave a lasting impression and persuade the audience.

How to Speak During a Debate: Command the Room with Conviction

Speaking during a debate is an art that can make or break your persuasive abilities. It's not just about expressing your ideas; it's about capturing the attention of your audience, delivering your arguments effectively, and leaving a lasting impact.

In this section, we'll explore valuable tips and techniques to help you speak with confidence and authority during a debate.

So, let's dive in and learn how to speak during a debate!

1. Structure Your Speech

Start with a clear and concise introduction that grabs the audience's attention and clearly states your position. Organise your arguments logically, presenting each point in a structured manner.

Use transitional phrases to guide the flow of your speech and make it easy for the audience to follow your line of reasoning.

2. Use Rhetorical Devices

Employ rhetorical devices such as metaphors, analogies, and rhetorical questions to make your speech more engaging and memorable. These devices help convey your message effectively, evoke emotions, and emphasise key points.

3. Speak with Conviction

Project confidence and conviction through your tone of voice and body language. Maintain good posture, make eye contact with the audience, and use gestures to enhance your delivery.

Speak clearly and articulate your words to ensure that your message is easily understood.

4. Emphasise Key Points

Highlight the most important aspects of your arguments by using vocal emphasis.

Modulate your tone, volume, and pace to draw attention to key points and make them stand out. This technique helps the audience remember and internalize your strongest arguments.

5. Use Evidence and Examples

Back up your arguments with evidence, facts, and real-life examples. Providing concrete evidence strengthens your position and lends credibility to your speech.

Incorporate relevant statistics, expert opinions, and anecdotes to support your claims.

6. Address the Opposing Side

Acknowledge and address the arguments presented by the opposing side. Refute them with well-reasoned counterarguments while maintaining a respectful tone.

Anticipating and addressing counter arguments demonstrates your thorough understanding of the topic and strengthens your position.

7. Maintain Clarity and Simplicity

Avoid using jargon, complex terminology, or convoluted sentences that may confuse the audience.

Aim for clarity and simplicity in your speech to ensure that your message is easily comprehensible to everyone in the room.

8. Practise Active Listening

Demonstrate active listening skills during the debate by attentively listening to the opposing side's arguments. Take notes and prepare thoughtful responses to effectively engage in the discussion.

Active listening also allows you to identify potential weaknesses in the opposing arguments that you can exploit during your rebuttal.

9. Adapt to the Audience

Consider the demographics and knowledge level of your audience while crafting your speech.

Tailor your language, examples, and explanations to resonate with the audience and make your arguments more relatable and compelling.

10. Conclude with Impact

End your speech with a strong and memorable conclusion. Summarise your key points, reiterate the strength of your arguments, and leave the audience with a compelling final thought. A powerful conclusion reinforces your position and leaves a lasting impression.

How to Develop Debating Skills: Unlock Your Potential as a Persuasive Communicator

Are you eager to enhance your debating skills and become a more persuasive communicator?

Developing strong debating skills requires dedication, practice, and a strategic approach. In this section, we'll explore how to develop debating skills and unlock your potential.

1. Research and Stay Informed

Start by researching a wide range of topics and staying up-to-date with current events.

Read reputable sources, explore different perspectives, and deepen your knowledge on various subjects. A well-informed debater is better equipped to present compelling arguments.

2. Analyse Debates and Study Expert Speakers

Watch and analyse debates featuring experienced debaters or renowned public speakers.

Observe their speaking styles, argumentation techniques, and delivery. Take notes on their strengths and strategies, and learn from their successes.

3. Practise Constructive Listening

Develop active listening skills during debates or public discussions.

Pay attention to the arguments presented by both sides, analyse their strengths and weaknesses, and formulate your own counterarguments. Listening critically helps refine your thinking and prepares you to respond effectively.

4. Join a Debating Club or Society

Seek out debating clubs or societies in your community or educational institution.

Participating in regular practice sessions with like-minded individuals provides opportunities to engage in debates, receive feedback, and learn from peers who share your passion for debating.

5. Engage in Mock Debates

Organise or participate in mock debates with friends, classmates, or colleagues. Practice presenting arguments, countering opposing viewpoints, and refining your delivery.

Mock debates allow you to experiment with different strategies and build confidence.

6. Seek Feedback and Learn from It

Welcome constructive criticism from peers, mentors, or debate coaches. Feedback helps identify areas for improvement and guides your development as a debater. Incorporate the feedback into your practice sessions and continuously strive to enhance your skills.

With these strategies, consistent practice, and a passion for self-improvement, you can develop your debating skills and become a persuasive communicator.

SoME, your trusted source for professional courses, offers comprehensive programmes designed to sharpen your debating abilities and boost your confidence in public speaking. Unleash your potential and excel as a debater with SoME's expert guidance and practical training.

How to Do a Debate: Unleashing Your Persuasive Power on the Stage

Ready to step into the world of debating?

Whether it's for a school competition, a professional setting, or simply to sharpen your persuasive skills, learning how to do a debate effectively is a valuable asset.

In this section, we'll guide you through the process of preparing, organising, and executing a successful debate. So, let's dive in and unlock your persuasive power on the stage!

1. Understand the Debate Format

Familiarise yourself with the specific format of the debate you'll be participating in. Whether it's a formal or informal setting, understand the structure, time limits, and rules to ensure a smooth and coherent debate.

2. Choose an Engaging Topic

Select a topic that is relevant, thought-provoking, and sparks interest among the participants and audience. Consider both sides of the argument to create a balanced and engaging debate.

3. Research Thoroughly

Dive into extensive research on the chosen topic. Gather credible sources, statistics, and examples to support your arguments. Develop a deep understanding of the subject matter to present well-informed viewpoints.

4. Construct a Strong Opening Statement

Craft a compelling opening statement to capture the audience's attention. Clearly state your position, introduce key arguments, and establish a solid foundation for your case.

5. Organise Your Arguments

Structure your arguments in a logical and coherent manner. Present each point with clarity, supporting evidence, and persuasive reasoning. Use subheadings or numbering to help the audience follow your flow of thought.

6. Engage with Confidence

Present your arguments with confidence and conviction. Maintain eye contact with the audience, use gestures to emphasise key points, and project your voice effectively. Engaging with confidence enhances your persuasive impact.

7. Summarise and Conclude Strongly

End your debate with a concise summary of your key arguments and a powerful conclusion. Recap your main points, reinforce your position, and leave a lasting impression on the audience.

Understanding Debate Rules and Etiquette: Navigating the Path to Civil Discourse

Debate rules and etiquette provide the framework for a constructive and meaningful exchange of ideas. To engage in debates effectively, it's crucial to familiarise yourself with these debate rules and follow proper etiquette.

In this section, we'll delve into the essential debate rules and etiquette of debates, equipping you with the knowledge to navigate the path to civil discourse.

So, let's explore the debate rules that ensure debates remain respectful, informative, and engaging!

1. Research and Understand the Topic

Before engaging in a debate, thoroughly research and familiarise yourself with the topic. Understanding the subject matter enables you to present informed arguments and contribute meaningfully to the discussion. 

2. Respect Time Limits

Adhere to the designated time limits for each debate segment. Respect the speakers' time and avoid going over your allotted time, as it can disrupt the flow and fairness of the debate.

3. Follow Turn-Taking Protocol

Abide by the turn-taking protocol established for the debate. Wait for your turn to speak and avoid interrupting other speakers. Listen attentively to ensure a respectful and productive exchange of ideas.

4. Constructive Language and Tone

Use respectful and constructive language throughout the debate. Avoid personal attacks, offensive language, or derogatory remarks. Maintain a calm and composed tone, focusing on the arguments rather than attacking individuals.

5. Stay on Topic

Keep your arguments relevant to the debate topic. Straying off-topic dilutes the focus and can hinder productive discussion. Ensure that your points directly relate to the subject being debated.

Wrapping it up

Mastering the art of debating opens doors to numerous opportunities for personal growth, professional development, and intellectual engagement.

Remember, debating is not just about winning arguments, but also about fostering respectful dialogue and learning from diverse perspectives. Embrace the journey, embrace the challenge, and continue to refine your skills through practice and continuous learning.

So, why wait? Unlock your potential as a debater and embark on a path of self-improvement with SoME, your trusted partner in professional courses. Explore the range of programs offered and take the first step towards becoming a confident and persuasive communicator.

Start your journey today and let the world hear your voice through the power of debating.

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Debate Definition, Techniques & Examples

Masha has been a teacher and tutor, mostly focusing on ELA, for about two decades. She holds a B.A. in Psychology from Pomona College, an M.A.T. in English Education from Boston University, an M.A. in English from Middlebury College's Bread Loaf School of English, and an M.Ed. in Arts in Education from the Harvard Graduate School of Education. At Bread Loaf, she received a fellowship from the National Academy for Excellent Teaching. At the Harvard Graduate School of Education, she received an Urban Scholars Fellowship. She holds English teaching certification in Massachusetts and New York.

Table of Contents

What is debate, types of debate: definitions, debate techniques, examples of debates, lesson summary.

A debate can be defined as a generally formal and often public discussion of a topic, during which persuasive arguments from differing sides of an issue are presented. This definition of what a debate is entails understanding debate as an organized discipline which is often competitive. Debating is the act of engaging in debate, meaning either competing to win in an intellectual contest of debate, or, in colloquial terms, having a reasoned discussion about a topic.

History of Debate

Debate has existed since antiquity, and debate styles developed in days gone by are still practiced today. For instance, Socrates, a philosopher from Ancient Greece, utilized debate as a tool for learning. A teacher poses questions to pupils, with the intention of provoking critical thinking. In fact, this Socratic method is a style of teaching that still exists.

In addition, the Parliament of the United Kingdom, which has existed in various forms since the Middle Ages, is a governmental decision-making entity with its own characteristic debate procedures. These procedures have in turn inspired types of competitive debate.

Just as influences from the past still inform debating styles of today, technological advances can impact debates. The advent of broadcast media ushered in new ways for debates to be presented and heard by the public. In 1960, the presidential debate between Richard Nixon and John F. Kennedy was broadcast via television and radio, which had never before been the case for a presidential debate. To this day, the impact of physical appearance on that 1960 debate (which Kennedy is widely considered to have one) is the subject of its own debate.

Nowadays, debates happen worldwide in places of government, classrooms, workplaces, and beyond.

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The following sections discuss four types of debate: empirical, comparative, abstract, and model. Each debate definition includes a description and a topic example.

An empirical debate can be defined as a debate that involves discussing a question with a simple yes-or-no answer. A topic for an empirical debate should be one for which sides can be taken, as well as one that has evidence that can be presented for both sides. Careful consideration should be taken to choose a topic appropriate for the age level of debate participants.

A real-life equivalent to an empirical debate is a court of law in which lawyers present evidence for opposing sides of a legal issue. An example of an empirical debate topic question could be: Are school uniforms good for the learning culture of a school?

Comparative

A comparative debate topic involves a comparison between two things and is debated via discussion. In comparing the two things, both things must be discussed. One cannot focus only on the thing one is presenting as the better option. For instance, one can debate whether lollipops are better snacks than candy bars, but to do this properly, one must discuss both lollipops and candy bars. Simply describing an excellent candy bar does not prove that candy bars are better than lollipops.

Comparative debate can also be used as a debate strategy in other types of debates, wherein a debater compares possible arguments.

Abstract debates involve sayings or aphorisms. A possible topic for an abstract debate could be the statement Actions talk louder than words do. In an abstract debate, the debate would consist of reading beyond the literal in the statement presented and discussing the merits of the underlying wisdom found in the statement.

Within the greater culture of debate, abstract debates are not usually found in serious debate competitions. They are more often found in performance or comedic debates.

A more advanced form of debate, the model debate is about proposing a change (in a school, in a society, etc.) that should happen. Debates of this type are used in the world at large as part of making important decisions in settings such as the home, business, school, and government.

In a model debate, the side arguing in favor of a change should present reasons for the change along with a plan for putting the change into action. The side arguing against the change can show why the change would not be a good idea or would not be feasible. A possible topic for a model debate could be: Should students be required to wear uniforms to school?

Here are some best practices for using one's debating skills to ''win'' a debate:

• Make points that are relevant to the topic being debated.
• Give evidence to back up points.
• When crafting a persuasive argument, look to the three pillars of rhetoric : ethos (an appeal to ethics), logos (an appeal to logic), and pathos (an appeal to emotions).
• Try to present information by making an effective comparison showing how an argument or plan compares favorably to an opposing argument or plan.
• Be flexible and able to envision an issue from a variety of perspectives.

These are some real-world examples of debate:

• Political Debate—Political debates in which candidates for public office publicly discuss issues important to the voting populace. These debates can influence election results.
• School Debate—Debates can be used for many purposes in a school setting. Classroom debates can help students strengthen their research and presentation skills.
• Recreational Debate—Recreational debate can happen informally in any setting. For example, friends or family members can set up debates for fun.
• Mock Debates—Mock debates are educational activities in which students prepare to engage in debates on pre–selected topics of interest.
• Competitive Debate—In competitive debate, students can represent teams or schools to participate in debate competitions.
• Debate at Home—Learning about debate can help children gain listening and communication skills. Learning debate skills can be fostered by engaging in interesting conversations at home.

A debate is a reasoned, often formal, sometimes competitive discussion conducted by presenting different sides of a chosen issue. Debate has existed since antiquity, from the educational debates of Socrates in Ancient Greece to the political debates of today featuring candidates discussing topics of interest to voters. Besides formal debates held for competitive or electoral purposes, there are also informal debates held for educational purposes or even just for fun.

In explaining what debates are, one can helpfully list four types of debates: empirical, comparative, abstract, and model. Empirical debates discuss questions that have yes-or-no answers. Comparative debates have in their discussions comparisons between two things. Abstract debates have as their topics aphorisms or sayings. Model debates discuss the merits of potential changes or decisions. Making points relevant to the debate topic and backing the points up with evidence are good debate strategies. Other good debate strategies are being flexible in thought and making effective comparisons between one's argument and one's opponent's argument. Also, one can craft a persuasive argument using the three pillars of rhetoric , which are logos (appealing to logic), pathos (appealing to emotion), and ethos (appealing to ethics).

What are school debates?

School debates can be debates that happen in classrooms to more fully understand a variety of topics and in order to strengthen students' research and presentation skills. School debates can also be competitive debates for school students, such as debates between debate teams.

Does debate mean argue?

While members of a debate try to argue their sides persuasively, the words ''debate'' and ''argue'' are not completely synonymous. To debate is to engage in a reasoned and often formal discussion. In contrast, to argue can mean to disagree in an informal and impromptu manner.

What is the main purpose of a debate?

For a debate, arguments are researched and presented. The main purpose of a debate is to show multiple sides of important issues, whether for informational purposes or for the purpose of leading to a decision.

What is the best definition of debate?

A debate is a thoughtful and reasoned presentation of opposing persuasive arguments. These arguments can be presented in situations such as a competition, a classroom, or a legislative group attempting to make decisions.

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P.F. Terms and Jargon

Delink: the response, often made in rebuttal, that one or multiple parts of the opponent's link is wrong (their argument is untrue). 

Non-Unique: the response, usually made in rebuttal, that the opponent's link or impact happens under either world (takes out the uniqueness of the opponent's argument)

Fiat Power: the idea that the resolution is immediately passed under the affirmative. 

Disadvantage (also called a "disad." or "DA"): a unique reason as to how the other side harms society; their link leads to a separate, independent impact. 

Turn: a response, usually made in rebuttal, that says the opponent's argument is actually offense for the other side (includes both link turns and impact turns).

Top-Shelf Response: a broader response, made in rebuttal, that applies to the opponent's contention in general, as opposed to nuanced points on the line-by-line. 

Line-By-Line: the specific assertions/claims made by a team on the flow (includes uniqueness, warrants, links, impacts, etc) in the order that they appeared in speech.

The Flow (noun): the place where the arguments made in each speech are recorded

Flowing (verb): the process of recording the arguments  made in the debate (on paper/computer/etc.)

Uniqueness: analysis of the status-quo world (depending on the argument, one may argue that the present world is either good or bad)

Link: reason as to why one's argument leads their impact to occur; the various steps that lead from one's advocacy (aff/neg of the resolution) to what they are ultimately trying to prove. 

Warrant: the reasoning behind one of the steps in a link (i.e. why one thing leads to another, why an actor will take a specific action, etc.)

Impact: what the effects of your argument are (think- who is impacted, and how that group is affected)

Weighing (aka Impact Calculus): why one's impacts are important, especially in comparison to the opposing side's impacts; why one side matters more.

Scope: the weighing mechanism that deals with how many people/regions are affected; how broad the impact's effects are (ex. one billion people dying from nuclear winter has a broader scope than 100,000 dying from regional conflict)

Severity: the weighing mechanism that deals with how severe/drastic the impact is (ex. death is more severe than contracting a mild cold) 

Reversibility: the weighing mechanism that deals with whether or not the effects of the impact can be undone (ex. economic recession is mostly reversible , whereas death is not)

Magnitude: the weighing mechanism that encompasses the extent of an impact, generally thought of as severity multiplied by scope. 

Time-Frame: the weighing mechanism that deals with the timing of the impact; considers when the impact first materializes, as well as how long it lasts (long-term v. short term)

Urgency: the weighing mechanism that deals with how urgently the impact should be solved (i.e. solving a war that has just broken out is more urgent than solving the negative effects of a policy that will be implemented in five years).

Probability: the likelihood of an impact actually occurring  (i.e. nuclear war is less likely than conventional conflict); keep in mind that certain judges (generally tech/flow judges) will only consider probability weighing when it is paired with defense, as a conceded  impact has a 100% probability of materializing. 

Link-In: the weighing mechanism that analyzes that the impact of one argument leads to the impacts of the opponent's argument (i.e. conflict links into economic recession since war disrupts trade, cripples investment, destroys infrastructure, etc) 

Short Circuit : the weighing mechanism that argues that the impact of one argument prevents the (positive) impact of the opponent's argument from occurring  (i.e. conflict short circuits  economic growth by destroying infrastructure and disrupting trade)

Prerequisite: the weighing mechanism that analyzes that the impact of one argument must occur before the impact of another argument can occur (i.e. economic growth is a prerequisite to solving climate change because a nation without a strong economy does not have the financial capabilities to invest in green/renewable energy)

Offense: in the debate, the points/claims/arguments that are a direct reason to vote for your team (reasons as to why your side is good, or the opposing side is bad); generally includes case arguments, turns, disadvantages, and offensive overviews.

Defense: in the debate, the points/arguments/claims that are reasons as to why the other side is incorrect, but are not deliberate reasons to vote for you (remember, just saying that the opposing side is wrong is not offense); generally includes defensive overviews, delinks, and non-uniques.

Overview: generally made in rebuttal, overviews are overarching responses that apply to all arguments made in the debate (they can be offensive or defensive, depending on the content of the overview)

Tech Over Truth: the way of evaluating a round in which the judge assumes that uncontested arguments made in the debate space are true, despite their inherent truthfulness  in real life (i.e. if both sides agree that the sky is green, then the sky is green in the context of the round).

Framing: the perspective through which the judge should view the round or weighing debate (i.e. utilitarianism, deontological framing, racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia, structural violence, etc) 

Blocks: usually read in rebuttal, responses to various arguments on the other side

Blockfile: a file of blocks; a document of various responses to arguments on the opposing side of the debate to be read in rebuttal.

Spike: an argument or claim, read in constructive, that preempts  a common response that the opposing side tends to make in rebuttal (i.e. writing in case that mutually assured destruction - M.A.D. -does not prevent nuclear war, if your impact is nuclear war)

Tabula Rasa: as applied to judges, the idea that the judge comes into the round with no prior conceptions of the world; the mind is a "blank slate," so a "tabula rasa judge" is definitionally is tech over truth. 

Frontline: a defense of one's own argument made in response to a rebuttal argument from the opposing side, typically made in second-rebuttal or first summary

Meta-weighing: the comparison between two weighing mechanisms (i.e. timeframe is more important than scope)

Link Turn: a turn on the link level; the opponent's link leads to their impact increasing, rather than decreasing, or vise vera.

Impact Turn: a turn on the impact level; the analysis that argues that the opponent's impact has the opposite value than they say it does; the opponent's impact is bad as opposed to good, or vise versa (ex. authoritarianism = good, etc.)

Analytic: an analytic argument is an argument made based upon reasoning, empirics, or logic. (Typically, analytics are not accompanied by carded evidence).

Break: a term used by debaters to express making it to elimination rounds; if you make it to elimination rounds (after a set of preliminary rounds), you "break" at the tournament. 

Preliminary Rounds: most tournaments will have a set number of preliminary (prelim.) rounds that each team will participate  in. On the national circuit, most tournaments have five-seven preliminary rounds.

Utilitarianism: in the context of public forum, this is basic cost-benefit analysis (most judges default to cost-benefit analysis). In ethics, utilitarianism holds that the best choice is the one that maximizes happiness/utility for the greatest quantity of people (of course, this is subjective within itself). 

Deontology: this type of framing says that the morality of an action is determined by a clear set of moral principles, not based upon the consequences of an action. For example, sacrificing one person to save four is not moral. (Deontology is fairly uncommon in public forum). 

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Advertisement

[ dih- beyt ]

a debate in the Senate on farm price supports.

Synonyms: contention , disputation , controversy , argument

• a formal contest in which the affirmative and negative sides of a proposition are advocated by opposing speakers.
• deliberation ; consideration .
• Archaic. strife; contention.

verb (used without object)

When we left, the men were still debating.

Synonyms: contend , dispute

• to participate in a formal debate.

I debated with myself whether to tell them the truth or not.

• Obsolete. to fight; quarrel.

verb (used with object)

They debated the matter of free will.

The homeowners debated the value of a road on the island.

Jones will debate Smith. Harvard will debate Princeton.

He debated his decision in the matter.

• Archaic. to contend for or over.

/ dɪˈbeɪt /

• a formal discussion, as in a legislative body, in which opposing arguments are put forward
• discussion or dispute
• the formal presentation and opposition of a specific motion, followed by a vote
• to discuss (a motion), esp in a formal assembly

he debated with himself whether to go

Discover More

Derived forms.

• deˈbater , noun

Other Words From

• de·bater noun
• de·bating·ly adverb
• inter·de·bate verb interdebated interdebating
• nonde·bater noun
• nonde·bating adjective
• outde·bate verb (used with object) outdebated outdebating
• over·de·bate verb overdebated overdebating
• postde·bate adjective
• prede·bate noun
• prede·bater noun
• rede·bate noun verb redebated redebating
• unde·bated adjective
• unde·bating adjective
• well-de·bated adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of debate 1

Example Sentences

I haven’t been doing mock debates very much, but I’ve been just making sure that I understand all that he has said and hasn’t said.

Something that involved public debate and public contribution.

All the while the debate about whether or not you need E-A-T for ranking rages on.

From my view at least, there hasn’t been much of a public debate about it, which reflects the way Italy has handled the pandemic from the start.

There’s still debate as to whether such policies conflict with the 1967 UN Outer Space Treaty.

Throughout the fifties, in city after city, fluoridation became the subject of fierce debate.

Bush busy engaging constituents on both sides of the same-sex marriage debate ahead of the 2004 presidential election.

The debate over who really pulled off the Sony hack, then, could continue indefinitely.

And it must make sure that the platform of debate where we can freely exchange ideas is safe and sound.

They already know the answer, but they know by feigning ignorance they can create all this debate about it.

On the 13th of February the Stamp Act bill was introduced and read for the first time, without debate.

The Cuban debts and the future of the Philippines were really the knotty points in the entire debate.

Congress met, and during the debate on the momentous question—peace or war—the hitherto compact group of intransigents weakened.

He had not started the journey brashly, on impulse, but after debate and discussion with Mandy, his wife.

The decree of accusation was proposed, and carried, without debate, beneath the poniards of uncounted thousands of assassins.

Related Words

More about debate, what does debate mean.

A debate is a public discussion of a common topic or question between people on both sides of an issue, as in Voters were disappointed that there were no debates between the candidates.

A debate is also a formal contest in which the debaters speak on opposite sides of a topic.

Every debate is an argument but not every argument is a debate . While debates are competitive, both sides are attempting to persuade the other and the audience, not insult, hurt, or reprimand the other.

To debate means to engage in such discussions, as in The senate spent all night debating these weighty issues.

To debate also means to deliberate or weigh the pros and cons of a decision one has to make.

Example: I debated going on the trip, but I decided it was best for my mental health to stay home.

Where does debate come from?

The first records of the term debate come from the 1200s. It ultimately comes from the Latin battre , meaning “to beat.”

Debates are popular forms of entertainment, especially debates between candidates for major political offices. The point of a debate is not supposed to be entertainment but knowledge. The point of debating something is to exchange different perspectives on a topic to determine which is correct or the best choice. Although debates should be about knowledge, logic, and passion, they are just as often about emotions.

Did you know … ?

What are some other forms related to debate ?

• debatable (adjective)
• debater (noun)
• debatingly (adverb)
• outdebate (verb)
• undebated (adjective)

What are some synonyms for debate ?

What are some words that share a root or word element with debate ? 

What are some words that often get used in discussing debate ?

How is debate used in real life?

Debate is normally used to describe a specific conversation, either public or private.

Settle this debate NOW 👇🏽 and tell me why 🧐 — Patrick van Aanholt (@pvanaanholt) September 9, 2020

I woke up at 2am…. I debated if twitter wants to hear from me at such hour.. Who might indeed be awake now and wanting to read my tweet??? To all of you awake people right now or soon to be awake, this tweet is dedicated to you. — chadi nabhan MD, MBA, FACP (@chadinabhan) September 10, 2020

House Democrats hope to begin debate as soon as Wednesday on a roughly $2 trillion proposal to overhaul the country’s health care, education, climate, immigration and tax laws, aiming to adopt the sweeping measure by the end of the week https://t.co/sRggB4dX5V — The Washington Post (@washingtonpost) November 16, 2021

Try using debate !

Which of the following is NOT a synonym for debate ?

A. argue B. agree C. counter D. discuss

When To Use

What are other ways to say  debate .

To debate is to engage in argument or discussion, as in a legislative or public assembly. How does debate compare to discuss and argue ? Find out on Thesaurus.com . 

Debate — Questions, Structure, and Topics

What is a debate.

A debate is a form of public discourse that presents organized arguments by two opposing sides. In a typical debate, two sides (affirmative and negative) are given a proposition to debate using a structured format that differs based on the type.

The affirmative side advocates for the proposition, providing supporting evidence and explanation, while the opposing side refutes the resolution. Therefore, the affirmative wants to convince the audience to adopt the resolution, while the opposition side wants them to reject it.

The audience varies depending on the topic of the debate. Consider the following examples:

Political: Voters

Policy: Lawmakers

Trial: Jury

Public Debate/Forum: Community members

Debate questions

The basis of a debate stems from the resolution, a declarative statement determined by a question. The resolution contains the claim the two sides will debate. These statements derive from debate questions:

Structure for debate

The specific structure depends on the form of debate. However, every formal debate contains a judge, opposing sides, speeches, and a decision.

Debates are set up to persuade a panel of judges rather than the opponent.

There are always two sides in a debate – one that agrees with the resolution (affirming) and one that disagrees (opposing).

Each debate includes rounds of speeches that present the side’s argument. The placement of the speech in the debate impacts its purpose.

The constructive speech is each team’s first speech to build their case.

Rebuttals provide the opportunity for both sides to discredit their opponent’s argument.

Cross-examination allows each side to question the other side.

The period where speakers from both sides can ask and answer each other’s questions is called crossfire . The grand crossfire functions in the same way, except all four speakers participate.

Closing statements offer each side a final opportunity to present their argument.

Upon conclusion of the debate, the judge(s) or moderator decides the winning side.

Types of debates

Team policy, Lincoln-Douglas, spontaneous argumentation, public forum, and parliamentary are the most common types of debates.

Team policy debates consist of two teams of two who take a position concerning a predetermined policy. One team argues to enact the policy while the opposing team members offer reasons to reject it.

Policy debates are structured as follows:

Lincoln-Douglas debates consist of one speaker debating against another speaker and are a common form of high school debates. The topic typically concerns social and philosophical issues with questions concerning ideas such as morality, justice, democracy, etc. They focus on determining if certain thoughts or actions are good or bad, right or wrong, and moral or immoral. Presidential debates typically look most like Lincoln-Douglas debates.

Spontaneous argumentation (SPAR) is a quick and simple type of debate. It typically involves two debaters given a topic right before the debate, allowing only a few minutes for preparation.

Public forum debates feature two teams with two speakers each who debate a topic regarding a current event.

A parliamentary debate includes two teams with two speakers each. The affirmative team is often referred to as the government and is trying to uphold the resolution, whereas the negative team (the opposition) opposes the government’s viewpoint. The government identifies a problem and offers a solution, while the opposition argues against that solution. The rules for this type of debate originated from British parliamentary procedure.

Debating tips

When debating, the following strategies can positively affect the outcome:

While some debate formats allow for a limited amount of preparation time, utilize the time provided. It is best to take as much time as possible to formulate an argument. Going into a debate unprepared not only impacts the argument but can negatively influence body language, eye contact, volume, pacing, etc.

Focus and stay on topic. Make sure each sentence has a purpose and supports the argument.

Use good public speaking skills like appropriate eye contact, volume, pacing, intonation, inflection, posture, etc., which show the speaker’s confidence. Sometimes the presentation can be as important as what is presented.

Debates provide speakers with the opportunity to respond to their opponent’s argument. Focus on actively listening to the opposing side. While it is possible to predict their argument, providing a direct response to something they said is much more persuasive than moving forward as if there is no opposing side.

The point of a debate is to attack the argument , not the opponent.

Debate topics

The following are example topics for each main type of debate:

Team Policy Debate

The United States federal government should substantially increase its protection of its water resources.

The United States federal government should substantially increase its security cooperation with the North Atlantic Treaty Organization in one or more of the following areas: artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and cybersecurity.

New York should offer universal healthcare to its residents.

Lincoln-Douglas Debate

In a democracy, a free press ought to prioritize objectivity over advocacy.

Radicalism is preferable to incrementalism to achieve social justice.

Civil disobedience in a democracy is morally justified.

The actions of corporations ought to be held to the same moral standards as the actions of individuals.

Spontaneous Argumentation (SPAR)

Lying is sometimes justified.

High schools should require uniforms.

Voting is a duty and not a right.

The pen is mightier than the sword.

Money can buy happiness.

Public Forum Debate

Japan should revise Article 9 of its Constitution to develop offensive military capabilities.

The United States should establish a comprehensive bilateral trade agreement with Taiwan.

Parliamentary Debate

In the US criminal justice system, truth-seeking ought to be valued above attorney-client privilege.

Chain stores are detrimental to the best interests of the American public.

The United States Senate should eliminate the filibuster.

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Difference Between Speech and Debate

• Categorized under Language , Words | Difference Between Speech and Debate

A speech, or a debate, is a formal manner of addressing a group of people.   The most obvious difference between the two forms of address is, a speech follows one opinion, while a debate is between two people on two opposing sides.   Each side of the debate gives an opposing opinion.   The debaters are either for or against the topic debated.   The audience listening to the debate may decide which side of the debate they will be supporting.   A speech on the other hand gives one opinion, or views, on a topic that is presented to an audience.   The audience may agree or disagree with the speaker.   The debate and the speech are forms of academic discussion or testimonies to the art of speaking in public.   Both of these oratory forms require a speech to be made.

What Does Speech Mean?

A good speech needs preparation and delivery.   The speaker presents his or her thoughts on a particular subject to an audience.   The audience may be made up of students in an educational environment or it could be of political origin.   A speech can be made to academic circles or at social events like weddings, special birthdays and other occasions.   A speech can be informal, creating awareness over a social issue, or more formal in front of an audience. The speaker is usually giving an opinion on a given topic.   The audience may have empathy with, or may need conversion to, the speaker’s project or cause.   A speech involves more individual performance around the chosen topic to keep the audience captivated and listening to the speaker.

How Speeches are Defined?

• By presentation: 

Speeches are made by an individual to a group or to a larger audience.   Speeches can be broadcast to reach an even wider audience. 

• By content:

Speeches can be used to edify particular like minded groups.   The content would be social, political or educational topics needed for the group’s edification or development.   The content of a speech may be required to reach a particular group.   Someone passionate about a particular topic may choose to speak in a public place on their topic.   Their speech may reach anyone who may be passing by.

Different types of speeches serve their different groups of listeners on different occasions.   There are inaugural speeches, official ceremonial speeches, lectures, and formal occasions when a speech is required at the event – a wedding for example.

• By contribution:

The contribution of the speech is the given topic and the input required to make the speech appropriate.   A wedding speech for example would require the family connection and information to make the speech appropriate.   A speech at a lecture for students would require the correct academic information.

What is Debating?

Although debating requires public speaking, the concept of a debate is different.   The   purpose of the speakers in a debate is to present opposite sides of a topic that can be argued in a for or against manner.   Debating sets out formal routines for the process of the debate.   The speaker for the topic speaks followed by the speaker against the topic.   There may be more than one speaker in each debating team in some situations.   The audience listens to the two sides to the debate and will form an opinion based on the speeches.   Basically a debate is an extended formal argument.   The advantage of listening to a debate is both sides of the argument are presented for the audience.   Debating has rules and definition.   There are different types of debates and some educational institutions have debating societies.   Prior to a debate it is important to set down the rules by which the debate will be conducted.   Some debates are judged and there is audience participation.   Generally there are two teams, one is the team in favor of the topic and the other team against the topic.   Most debates have different members assigned to the sides of the debate.   An exception to this is a debating style called ‘Turncoat debate’ and in this situation one person takes both sides of the argument and delivers a solo performance. 

How Debates are Defined?

• By presentation:

Two teams present the arguments for or against a topic.   The rules of the debate are pre determined by the debating society.   Audience participation is encouraged and a judgment proclaimed at the end of the debate to determine which side was the most convincing.

There are many topics used for debate.   The subject matter could depend on the group of people the debate is presented to.   School debating societies would have a variety of challenging topics relative to student debates.   Parliamentary debate would be political or an opportunity for opposing parties to debate worthy causes.   Political debate is part of a democratic society.

Debating has a format and regulations that should be agreed upon prior to the debate.   The number of members to the team and times for the speakers to present their arguments are all part of the method in managing a debate.   It is a controlled presentation of opposing ideas to a group of listeners who may participate through questions and receiving answers.   Judgment is placed at the end to declare a winner in competitive debate.   In some cases of parliamentary debate legislature may be discussed and proposals for and against regulations presented.

• By   contribution:

A debate may have a number of contributors, but the manner of debating dictates that there is always a motion for or against the topic under debate.   The team may consist of three members to each side or in the case of a ‘turncoat’ debate the whole debate is carried out by one person but there will always be two sides to the argument presented.

Differences between Speech and Debate

People participating;.

The essential difference is a speech is made by one person while a debate involves two sets of people in order to present the argument for and against.   During a speech the audience do not generally take an active role, however they may be invited to ask questions by the speaker.   The questions would be around the topic that was spoken about.   In a debate the audience will participate and question each side of the debating team to expand the decision making process involved in judging the content of the debate.

Content of the speech or debate:

The content of the speech may vary according to the occasion and the information that is being shared.   A debate will have varying topics, but the overall statement of the debate will give rise to two opinions.   Controversial topics make for lively debates. 

Audience participation:

Audience participation differs slightly because of the argumentative structure of a debate as opposed to the presentation of ideas made in a speech. The audience expects to take part in a debate as there are two sides to an argued topic.   A speech is a more passive experience and the delivery of the speech covers one source of opinion that the audience is listening to.

Delivery of the message:

A speech is delivered to an audience by the speaker who has prepared the topic to suit the audience.   It may be educational, political or social in contest.   A debate is delivered by two opposing sides of the debated topic.   Each side gets a chance to deliver their side of the topic.   It is a formal style of arguing a given topic.

The outcome of both a speech and a debate is to enlighten the audience on a particular topic.   A speech presents the information or experience from the speaker’s point of view. While a debate has two points of view.   The audience decides which point of view they support and after a question and answer time they can decide on the point of view they agree with.

Speech Vs. Debate: Comparison Chart

Summary of Speech and Debate : 

The fundamental difference between a speech and a debate is the purpose of the activity.   Although both forms of public speaking deliver a message via a speech making process the speech is geared towards edifying a group through one person’s point of view.   A debate however, presents two sides of an issue and the speakers put across their different point of view.   A debate has a more competitive element as there is a judge deciding on the side of the debate that was most convincing.   Speeches and debates are driven by the audience support and often entertain their listeners.   In our society today, where freedom of speech is encouraged, both the speech and debate have a relevant place in oratory circles.

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Cite APA 7 Wither, C. (2019, June 5). Difference Between Speech and Debate. Difference Between Similar Terms and Objects. http://www.differencebetween.net/language/difference-between-speech-and-debate/. MLA 8 Wither, Christina. "Difference Between Speech and Debate." Difference Between Similar Terms and Objects, 5 June, 2019, http://www.differencebetween.net/language/difference-between-speech-and-debate/.

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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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Why is MTG screaming at Dr. Fauci? Can we ever debate with civility again? | Mike Kelly

4-minute read.

Maybe it was inevitable that Dr. Anthony Fauci would face some tough questions when he stepped before a House committee this week trying to assess the COVID-19 crisis that killed more than a million Americans. But what emerged in an especially telling moment on Capitol Hill was not so much a measured inquiry with insightful answers but a verbal beat-down that seemed better suited to the “mean girls” table at a middle school cafeteria.

Perhaps even worse, no one was really shocked by what happened.

Anyone who maintains even a passing interest in politics now knows that the prospect of finding a reasoned, respectful debate over policy is akin to bringing back the now-extinct Bachman’s warbler bird in Florida and the flat pig-toe mussel in Alabama. From professional sports and college lectures to the halls of Congress, with a trillion or so social media posts in between, America has lost its ability to talk respectfully to itself.

Fauci, the 83-year-old retired immunologist who helped guide federal anti-COVID policy for the Trump and Biden administrations, was called before a House Select sub-committee probing the origins of the coronavirus pandemic and what lessons might be learned for the future.

He was asked the understandable and expected questions about mask wearing and school lockdowns. All serious issues. All still in need of examination as America tries to prepare for what scientists predict will be another viral pandemic of some sort in the coming years.

Then came the “questions” from Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, the Georgia Republican known more for angry spats than actual policy.

Greene blamed Fauci for such “invasive” policies as the mask regulations and school closings. No surprise there. Greene is a leading voice among those in America who believe it was wrong to accept such standard, anti-viral medical precautions as wearing protective masks and imposing quarantines. But for this hearing, Greene took her rhetorical attacks to new level. She refused to refer to Fauci by his professional title of “doctor.”

“Do you think that’s appropriate? Do the American people deserve to be abused like that, Mr. Fauci, because you’re not ‘Dr.,’ you’re ‘Mr. Fauci’,” she said, before announcing, “No, I don’t need your answer.”

In case you wondered, Greene is not a doctor.

Before her election to Congress in 2020, she was known mostly for running a cross-fit gym and for promoting false conspiracies — notably that federal authorities were involved in mass shootings and that the 9/11 attacks were a hoax. She also denies that Donald Trump lost the 2020 presidential election.

'The world is getting angrier'

Greene is not merely just another quirky maverick, however. She's worse. She's emblematic of a much deeper change in America. Simply put: Far too many people seem overtly ticked off. Greene seems to wake up angry each morning and go to bed each night spouting the same venom.

“The world is getting angrier,” Psychology Today magazine reported in May. In April, even that famously neutral community institution, the Kiwanis Club, concluded in its online magazine that anger now seems normalized with the nation so “addicted to divisiveness’ that “it becomes part of identity.”

If that’s the case, no one should be surprised that Greene is now a centerpiece of the nation’s politics. She is the poster child for American anger.

America has never been perfect at what political scientists might describe as public dialogue. America is not just the home of the brave; it’s the land of free speech, protected by the First Amendment — with plenty of moments when discussions have turned into shouting matches or worse. Anyone who doubts this should peek at the news coverage of President Abraham Lincoln in the 1860s who was depicted as a monkey. And, of course, let's not forget the Civil War.

But something is now broken. The standards of how our nation talks to itself have clearly slipped. Put another way: the guardrails have fallen apart. What took place when Fauci sat down in that Congressional hearing room this week was just the latest reminder. There are plenty of other examples.

Consider the none-too-subtle racial taunts directed at Caitlin Clark, the female professional basketball star who happens to be white.

ESPN commentator Pat McAfee, no stranger to dumb statements along the lines of Greene, announced recently that Clark was a “white [expletive]” and targeted by Black players because of her race.  

Maybe Clark has been targeted. Who knows? Certainly, ESPN’s respected analyst Stephen Smith, who happens to be Black, said some non-white female players may be “jealous” of the media attention Clark has received. 

The point here is that assessing Clark's treatment is worthy of a legitimate debate. But calling Clark a “white [expletive]” has steered an otherwise important discussion about women’s sports and race into yet another media circus act. 

Mike Kelly: What have we learned from Trump's trial? He's counting on America to roll with him

And what about reaction to Donald Trump's conviction as a felon?

But if the fiasco surrounding Clark is a circus, consider what is taking place on right-wing social media sites in the wake of former President Donald Trump’s conviction last week on 34 counts of falsifying business records to cover up a scheme to interfere with the 2016 presidential election.

An analysis in the American Prospect by Rick Perlstein, the journalist and historian who has been described by Politico as "a chronicler extraordinaire of modern conservatism,” found that the reaction to Trump’s guilty verdict was tinged with threats of violence. Is anyone surprised?

 One social media commentator, cited by Perlstein, called the verdict “the date the leftist devils chose civil war for this nation.”  Another wrote: "After the DA, the corrupt judge, and the corrupt jury (and all others involved) are found guilty of treason and sentenced to hang, I want to buy a ticket to the event." Yet another, using a reference to the ammunition for AR-15 assault rifles, predicted that “elections will be conducted using 5.56mm voting machines."

That's just a sampling of what can easily be reeled in by simply casting a line into the social media cesspool. Lost in this deluge of invective is the question of how the verbal anger will affect the nation as it approaches the most consequential presidential election in decades. 

Free speech can be mean; like it or not

As Greene finished her “mean girls” putdown of Fauci the other day on Capitol Hill, Rep. Jamie Raskin, the Maryland Democrat who is the committee’s progressive voice, asked: “Just in terms of the rules of decorum, are we allowed to deny that a doctor is a doctor just because we don’t want him to be a doctor?”

In parliamentary terms, the question was meant as a “point of order” — meaning that the committee chair should respond. 

Greene cut in first.

“That man does not deserve to have a license,” said Greene. “As a matter of fact, it should be revoked, and he belongs in jail.”

To his credit, the committee chairman, Rep. Brad Wenstrup, an Ohio Republican who happens to be a physician and was praised in 2017 after tending to Rep. Steve Scalise, the Louisiana Republican who was shot and wounded while practicing for a Congressional baseball game, intervened.  

But maybe Wenstrup was too polite.

He referred to Greene as “the gentlelady” — the gender opposite of “gentleman” that is the common reference in Congressional dialogue — and asked her to “suspend” and refer to Fauci as a doctor. He then urged the rest of the committee members to be “mindful of their remarks.”

Let’s just say that Greene, the "gentlelady," did not get the gentle message of mindfulness.

She again said she would refuse to refer to Fauci as a doctor. She added that Fauci was “not respected” and guilty of “crimes against humanity” — in her opinion, anyway. She offered no evidence.

“You belong in prison,” she said.

So welcome to America. Free speech is protected here — even if it’s wrong. 

Mike Kelly is an award-winning columnist for NorthJersey.com, part of the USA TODAY Network, as well as the author of three critically acclaimed nonfiction books and a podcast and documentary film producer. To get unlimited access to his insightful thoughts on how we live life in the Northeast, please subscribe or activate your digital account today.

Email: [email protected]