Debate Mechanics and Rubrics for Introduction to

Philosophy: Methods of Philosophizing: Truth and Opinion

I. Debate Format:

Formal Debate

 Divide the class into two teams: Rationalists and Empiricists.

 Each team will have an opening statement (3 minutes), two rebuttals (2 minutes each),
and a closing statement (2 minutes).
 A moderator (teacher or student) guides the debate, ensuring fair time allocation and
respectful discourse.

II. Debate Topics:

 Methods of philosophizing:
o Can one method be superior for finding truth?
o Are there situations where personal experience trumps logic and reason?
o Is intuition a valid philosophical tool?
 Truth vs. opinion:
o Can opinions ever be true?
o Is there objective truth, or is all truth subjective?
o How does our perspective impact what we consider "true"?

III. Rubric for Scoring:

Content (50 points):

 Knowledge and understanding of key concepts: (15 points) Demonstrate clear

understanding of methods of philosophizing, truth, and opinion. Use relevant
philosophical terminology accurately.
 Strength of arguments: (15 points) Present well-constructed and logical arguments with
strong evidence and examples. Address counter-arguments effectively.
 Depth of analysis: (15 points) Go beyond surface-level explanations and engage in
critical thinking. Consider different perspectives and complexities of the topic.
 Originality and creativity: (5 points) Present unique insights and interpretations. Show
independent thinking and go beyond simply repeating textbook information.

Presentation (30 points):

 Clarity and organization: (10 points) Ideas are presented clearly and logically.
Arguments are well-structured and easy to follow.
 Delivery: (10 points) Speak confidently and audibly. Use effective body language and
eye contact.
  Respect and professionalism: (10 points) Engage in respectful and civil debate. Listen
attentively to others and acknowledge different viewpoints.

Participation (20 points):

 Active participation in the debate: (10 points) Ask relevant questions, contribute
insights, and actively engage in the discussion.
 Openness to different perspectives: (5 points) Consider alternative viewpoints and
participate in meaningful dialogue.
 Cooperation and teamwork: (5 points) (if applicable) Work effectively as a team to
prepare and present arguments.

Additional Considerations:

 You are highly encouraged to be creative and original thinker in arguments and analysis.
 You will be provided with opportunities for self-reflection and peer feedback after the
debate.
 REMEMBER, the goal is not to "win", but to engage in critical thinking and explore
different philosophical perspectives.

GOOD LUCK!

Needs
Criteria Excellent (4 pts) Good (3 pts) Fair (2 pts) Improvement (1
pt)

Demonstrates Arguments
Provides clear
deep Shows basic are unclear
and relevant
understanding understanding or irrelevant,
arguments
Content: of but lacks with no
supported by
philosophical depth or evidence to
evidence and
concepts and clarity. support
examples.
methods. them.

Logic & Makes sound Arguments are Logic is not Arguments

Reasoning: logical generally always sound, are illogical
arguments logical, but with some and difficult
with clear may have fallacies or to follow.
connections minor flaws or unsupported
between inconsistencies. claims.
claims and
 evidence.

Speaks
Speaks Speaks clearly hesitantly or Delivery is
clearly, and mostly unclearly, and disorganized,
Delivery &
confidently, confidently, but may not unclear, and
Style:
and engages may lack engage the lacks
the audience. engagement. audience engagement.
effectively.

Actively
listens to Listens Listens
others, respectfully and passively or Is disruptive,
Respect & acknowledges considers other dismissively, disrespectful,
Collaboration different viewpoints, but and may not or dismissive
: perspectives, may not always be respectful of others'
and engages engage of other opinions.
in respectful effectively. perspectives.
debate.