How to Debate - wikiHow

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The procedure for a standard debate.

Steps

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Both teams receive a topic they are to debate on. One team must debate the 'affirmative' stances, and the other must debate the 'negative stance'.

Members of each team write their speeches according to the designated time limit. Depending on what position you speak in, you must follow certain protocol such as defining the topic or presenting a main argument.

Both teams will be seated near the front of the room they are to speak in - one team on the left, one on the right. The timekeeper and chairperson will sit in between, and the adjudicator will sit at the back of the room.

The chairperson will start the debate, and the first speaker will present their speech. The order of the speakers is First Affirmative, First Negative, Second Affirmative, Second Negative, Third Affirmative, Third Negative.

Points of information may be offered after the first minute of a speech. They must not be given in the minute before the time limit is reached.

The chairperson will invite the adjudicator to deliver the result. The adjudicator may also give feedback for each individual speaker.

The chairperson will ask a member of each debating team to present a vote of thanks to those who have attended.

The chairperson will declare the debate closed.

Tips
When the chairperson invites you to speak, you should be ready immediately, or within five seconds. Do not 'badger' with points of information - no more than one every 30 seconds.

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How to Debate - wikiHow

http://www.wikihow.com/Debate

There will be a single bell a minute before the time limit, a double bell on the time limit, and a triple bell at thirty seconds over. First speakers should spend no more than 5% of their time rebutting if possible, second speakers no more than 30%, and third speakers no more than 70%. Never argue with the adjudicator. In your vote of thanks, thank the opposing team first, then the adjudicator, chairperson, timekeeper and audience.

Related wikiHows
How to How to How to How to Get the Confidence to Speak in Front of a Class Conduct a Split Second Audience Analysis Perform Well in a Debate Win Informal Arguments and Debates

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Sources and Citations

www.jsa.org

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