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DO…
Come prepared to support your position.
Make sure you understand the opposing position and how to
refute it.
Listen respectfully and silently when your opponent is
speaking.
Only speak during your turn or if your opponent gives you
permission.
Take notes throughout the debate so that you can address the
specific issues raised by your opponent.
Use formal language; sound educated and informed.
DON’T…
Expect to wing it. Do your research and time your argument to
make sure you have enough material.
Forget to prepare a strong rebuttal. Stating your own position is
only half of the battle.
Interrupt your opponent’s constructive speech; if you stand to
speak and your opponent says, “No thank you,” sit down
respectfully.
Fail to take notes. Without written cues, it is difficult to make the
most of your limited time in a debate forum.
Use slang or sloppy speech.
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INSTRUCTIONS:
Objective: Collaborate with panel members to prepare an argument for a given topic and position.
Topic: The school budget can only allow for physical education or music education (this includes team sports,
band, and chorus). Which would you cut?
Steps:
Meet with panel:
1. Meet with your panel members and select a representative to meet with other panel’s representative.
2. Representatives will flip a coin to decide who gets to choose the position.
Research:
3. Read through articles, highlighting words or sentences to support your position and refute the opposing view.
4. Write down three to four reasons to support your position. Make sure you can provide details from the articles
to support your reasons.
5. Write down several points the opposition might make.
Revise:
17. Final preparation: make suggested revisions to your argument.
18. Time your constructive speeches and rebuttals.
Final meeting:
19. Give feedback about delivery.
20. Present!
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DEBATE RUBRIC (30 points)
(10) Content: Well-developed details are provided using primary sources and own ideas.
(5) Organization: Appropriate starter phrases such as “According to the author of…” or “My opponent
may say…”
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MODEL
Name
Period
Date
In early adolescence participation in physical activity provides important opportunities for challenge, social
interaction, group membership, as well as opportunities for continued personal growth in physical skill.
Participation for high school students continues to provide enjoyment and challenge as young people express
preferences for activities that meet their specific interests. A comprehensive, well-implemented physical
education program is an essential component to the total education of students. Physical education prepares
students to maintain healthy, active lifestyles and engage in enjoyable, meaningful leisure-time.