DEBATE WRITING

What is Debate Writing?

 A debate isa formal contest of argumentation in which two opposing teams

defend and attack a given proposition. It is a persuasive manner of speaking
with the aim of converting the view of another person, or an audience, to your
own point of view.

Important Points
The first and the foremost step is to choose the side, whether you want to write
for, or against the motion. Always try to select the side you personally want to
support and have more material information to write on. It is preferable to make
a choice during the reading time.
Format
Header or the title centred beneath which is mentioned the side taken
(For/Against).
An ideal debate must consist of 4 paragraphs, namely-

 Introduction/Salutation
 Problem with causes and effects
 Rebuttal
 Conclusion
1. Introduction- This includes salutations and the topic (including
FOR/AGAINST the motion).
For Example ‘Good morning everyone Honourable chairperson, esteemed
judges, respected teachers and my dear friends. I, (name given in the question,
or else, XYZ) stand before you to express my views for /against the motion……
You can also begin with a quote.

2. Body (Problem)- This is the main paragraph or the body of your answer.

 Always begin with the meaning of the topic or the explanation of the topic in
not more than a line.
 Then start quoting the issues. Now here, it is important you follow a sequence.
It is possible that you have too many points or very few points. When you have
 a lot of varied points, it is better you choose a few best ones and write a line on
each. In case you have very few already, explain them in at least two lines each.
 Make sure you are clear with your thoughts, only then will you be able to put
them into words unambiguously.

3. Rebuttal- This paragraph should include at least two views of opponents

(you need to invent) and provide two strong arguments to refute them in order
to strengthen your stand.
Use powerful expressions like:

 I’d like to argue/In my opinion…

 I fail to understand…
 May I ask
 I disagree…,

Solution- This paragraph needs to be short and crisp whereby you are supposed
to give a rational and practical solution for all the above problems.

 In case you are not able to figure one out, keep in mind a few general ones. It
could involve spreading awareness, campaigns, stringent laws and their strict
implementation, education, etc.
 Using a quote never hurts. It can be general ones like, on working together.
Every situation can be faced and solved if there is unity. So here are a few
handy ones.
"Wherever there is unity, there is always victory."
"Unity is strength."
"United we stand, divided we fall." And many more.

4. Conclusion- This part involves clarification of your statement and stance

along with thanking the audience for being such patient listeners. This
paragraph needs to be short and precise.

DO'S

1. Before you begin writing, write down all the points (one/two words per
point) at the back of your answer sheet (rough sheet) so that you do not
 forget relevant points while writing. This also helps you in maintaining a
sequence, which is very important.
2. Total agreement or disagreement with topic should be expressed forcefully
and clearly. Clarity, organization and systematic presentation of ideas is very
important
3. Use argumentative style and logical reasoning. Can use polite sarcasm and
humour but no indecorous language should be used.
4. Use rhetorical questions. These connect you to the audience and accentuate
the argumentative style and tone.
5. Make sure you double check for grammatical accuracy and spellings. They
carry marks.
6. Leave adequate number of lines between paragraphs to make it look clean.
7. Underlining the main points is very important. But it is advised to do it after
finishing your exam. Use a pencil and scale for underlining.
8. Always have a few general quotes in handy. They help in presentation and
shows that you're prepared
9. Presentation is very important.
10.Read a lot of debates to get an idea.
11.Have information about all the major environmental, political, social issues
that have taken place during the entire year.

DON'Ts

1. Never mention any of your personal details, i.e., name, school name or
address.
2. Never write in one go. Make sure you follow the right format and make
paragraphs.
3. Don't use slangs or short forms.
4. Don't write wrong facts.
5. Try not to exceed the prescribed word limit of 150-200 words.

Sample Debate
‘Gyms and Fitness centres have reduced the importance of exercise in the
park’

(For the motion)

Good morning members of the jury, esteemed judges, respected teachers and
my dear friends. It is a well-known saying, “Exercise helps you in keeping good
health”. But can one tell what good exercise is? To throw more light on the
topic, I would share my views in favour of the motion. A gym encourages you
to do a balanced programme that includes both aerobic and strength enhancing
exercises. These promote heart, health and weight-loss and improve muscle
strength, balance and flexibility. Some people really enjoy exercise, for others,
it is a chore. Many gyms now have professional trainers as staff; often many
people with college degrees in sports science or other related fields, along with
personal training certificates join as a trainer. They are trained to design
exercise programmes that fit individual needs in a fun and safe way. One of the
big advantages a gym has over your guest room or home gym is the wide array
of weights, machines, exercise classes and other elements. This gives you the
opportunity to try new exercise equipment and bring variations to your routine.

Worthy judges, my opponent has given his best views on exercising indoors
such as the absence of membership fees to which I strongly disagree. I am of the
opinion that membership fees act as an incentive and urge us to maintain a daily
regimen to attend these classes. I also strongly disagree with his proposition that
it is much better to exercise outdoors as rapid mushrooming of houses and
apartments has led to a severe paucity of free space.

I would reiterate and strongly uphold my views for promoting gyms and fitness
centres as these provide flexi-timings and are thus the right choice for the fast-
paced modern generation. I thus rest my case reiterating my point that gyms and
fitness centres are fast gaining popularity and are replacing indoor exercise
rapidly. Thank you.

Practice Questions
Q1. 'Homes for the aged is a necessity in India '. Write a debate in 150- 200
words either for or against the motion. You are Shivam/ Shivani.
Q2. 'Brain drain is not a bane for a developing country like India.' Write a
debate in 150 - 200 words either for or against the motion.
Q3. ‘For the country to progress, we require the energy and the enthusiasm of
the youth more than the experience of the veterans’. Write a debate in 150 - 200
words either for or against the motion.