DEBATE WRITING

What is a debate?

A formal discussion on a particular matter in which opposing arguments is put forward and
which usually ends with a vote.
E.g. "Last night's debate on the Education Bill"

Distribution of marks:

FORMAT- 1
CONTENT-2
EXPRESSION-2
TOTAL- 5

Tips to attempt a question on Debate writing:

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.
An ideal debate must consist of 4 paragraphs, namely-

§ Introduction/Salutations

§ Problem

§ Solution

§ The conclusion

1. Introduction- This includes salutations and the topic (including FOR/AGAINST the
motion).

For Example:- Good morning everyone. Esteemed judges, honourable guests,

respected teachers and my fellow students. I, (name given in the question or else,
XYZ) feel honoured to have been given the opportunity to speak (FOR/AGAINST)
the topic- (name of the topic).

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 you'll be able to put them
into words unambiguously.

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 3. Solution- "For every problem, there is a 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.

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.
Here also, you could add some glitter to your art piece with some quotes like
"The word IMPOSSIBLE itself says, I M POSSIBLE."
DO'S

i. 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.
ii. Make sure you double check for grammatical accuracy and spellings. They carry
marks.
iii. Leave adequate number of lines between paragraphs to make it look clean.
iv. 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.
v. Always have a few general quotes in handy. They help in presentation and shows that
you're prepared
vi. Presentation is very important.
vii. Read a lot of debates to get an idea.
viii. Have information about all the major environmental, political, social issues that have
taken place during the entire year. The Sample Question Paper 2018-19 released by
CBSE consists of a question on "Social Media and its effects". It can be linked with a
lot of problems we are facing today on personal and on global level. Example-
Spreading of fake information, Mob lynching, reduced physical activities in children
resulting in poor health, etc.
ix. Practice previous year Question paper questions.

DON'Ts

i. Never write in one go. Make sure you follow the right format and make paragraphs.
ii. Don't use slangs or short forms.
iii. Don't write wrong facts.
iv. Try not to exceed the prescribed word limit of 120-150 words.
v. Do not invest too much time in just this question.
vi. Never mention any of your personal details, i.e., name, school name or address.

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SOLVED EXAMPLE:
You are Mukul / Mahima of Alps Public School. Your school has organized a debate on
"Social Media and It's Effects" and you will be participating from your school. Prepare your
views against or in favour of the motion. (120-150 words)

SOCIAL MEDIA AND ITS EFFECTS

FOR THE MOTION:

"We are all now connected by the Internet, like neurons in a giant brain"
Honourable judges, teachers and my worthy opponents, thank you for giving me the
opportunity to join this debate on the topic, "Social Media and It's Effects". I am Mukul/
Mahima and I would like to speak in favour of the motion.
How many people do not have a smile on their faces on finding an old friend on Facebook?
Well, social media has removed all the barriers and boundaries to communication by
bringing the globe on a single platform. While business opportunities have widened,
marketer's reach has broadened. It keeps us updated about everything going on in every
nook and corner of the world on a real-time basis. From emergency alerts, announcements
and declarations to knowing how our friends are doing has all become so convenient. It
provides freedom of speech and thus, enables everyone to speak their mind. Not to forget
the incalculable access it provides to the extensive information.
With so much advancement and innovation, it would be an unimaginable world without
having social media in it. Someone has rightly put it into words by saying,
"Social media is addictive precisely because it gives us something what the real world lacks:
it gives us immediacy, direction and a value as an individual."
Thank you.
AGAINST THE MOTION:
What a world it is, with everyone on their phones, all the time, faking their lives and
keeping a count of their likes?
Good Morning, ladies and gentlemen! I am Mukul/ Mahima and my topic for the day is,
"Social media and its effects". I would like to speak against the motion.
It has now become doubtful to trust the saying that goes like "Technology was developed to
save time and make our lives easier", because people have become addicted and
unproductive. It takes a lot of effort and discipline to stay away from social media. Results
have shown that it has had adverse effects on human minds and their functioning. Outdoor
activities among children have also reduced significantly.
No doubt it provides access to useful information, but, it is hard to ignore the quantum of
fake news that spreads like wildfire and the extent of impact it has on the society. In fact,
fake Whatsapp forwards was a clear pattern that was observed behind the recent mob
lynching or rather, "Death by social media".

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It is one of the reasons behind insecurities and depression among teenagers. It is right that
technology was introduced to save time, but we forgot to mention, "In the right amount".
So, remember, you leave the present moment every time you check the phone.
Thank you for your cooperation and patient hearing.

QUESTIONS FOR PRACTISE:

1. You are Samrat/ Swati. Write a debate (for or against) on the topic ‘Marks do not define
a successful student’, in about 120-150 words.
2. You are Vikram/ Vidisha. Write a debate, for or against the topic,
‘Information Explosion: Good or Bad?’, in about 120-150 words.