A debate is a discussion or structured contest about an issue or a resolution. A formal debate

involves two sides: one supporting a resolution and one opposing it. Such a debate is bound by

rules previously agreed upon. Debates may be judged in order to declare a winning side. Debates,

in one form or another, are commonly used in democratic societies to explore and resolve issues

and problems. Decisions at a board meeting, public hearing, legislative assembly, or local

organization are often reached through discussion and debate. Indeed, any discussion of a

resolution is a form of debate, which may or may not follow formal rules (such as Robert’s Rules

of Order). In the context of a classroom, the topic for debate will be guided by the knowledge,

skill, and value outcomes in the curriculum.

A formal debate usually involves three groups: one supporting a resolution (affirmative team),

one opposing the resolution (opposing team), and those who are judging the quality of the

evidence and arguments and the performance in the debate. The affirmative and opposing teams

usually consist of three members each, while the judging may be done by the teacher, a small

group of students, or the class as a whole. In addition to the three specific groups, there may an

audience made up of class members not involved in the formal debate. A specific resolution is

developed and rules for the debate are established.

• Develop the resolution to be debated.

• Organize the teams.

• Establish the rules of the debate, including timelines.

• Research the topic and prepare logical arguments.

• Gather supporting evidence and examples for position taken.

• Anticipate counter arguments and prepare rebuttals.

• Team members plan order and content of speaking in debate.

• Prepare room for debate.

• Establish expectations, if any, for assessment of debate.

Here are some tips for a debater:

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COMMUNICATION SKILLS