Researching for a Debate

What is a debate? A debate is, simply put, an argument. But rather than being a shouting match between two sides, a debate has strict rules of conduct, utilizing sophisticated techniques. You may be put in a position where you must argue the opposite of what you believe in. This is an important part of the art of debating.

Exploring the Topic Define the topic “layman’s” terms Be aware of the scope of the debate What is included, what is not included Get a clear understanding of your position (Pro vs. Con) If in doubt, ask your teacher for clarification

Coming up with Keywords Children Punish Parents Families Society Kids Discipline Spank Time-Out Guidance Keywords are important because there is so much information available, and all sources do not use the same word to describe the topic you are looking for. For example, information on dysgraphia can also be found by searching for: Learning disability Dyslexia Handwriting problem children Think about the topic Eating disorder. Come up with 3 or 4 keywords that you would consider when exploring your topic. Google Hint: ~Discipline will search for the word promotion and its common synonyms define: Discipline will search for definitions and links

Brainstorming Brainstorm ALL possible arguments for & against the topic Come up with as many arguments as possible to support your claim Think about possible rebuttal arguments Use a concept map

Importance of Research Arguments will be based on evidence, facts and statistics. Debater will become familiar with the topic, which allows for better flow of ideas and better preparation for rebuttal arguments. Over-research. Use multiple, diverse sources.

Looking for Information Check the library for: Books Periodicals Government documents Newspapers Videos/DVDs Human expertise In the library – use the online catalogue, ask a librarian, scan the shelves

Looking for Information Check the Internet for: Online databases Current information (online newspapers, articles, studies. . .) Blogs, Wikis, and websites of concerned organizations and societies. Invisible web is made up of databases, password protected material, PDF, spreadsheets and word processed documents, information found deep below crawl space, and dynamic pages (URL, PHP . . .) How to find it: Use “database” in your searches. Use quality directories such as LII & INFOMINE. Use the resources on the library’s web pages to access password protected and licensed products. *Camtasia* Do example of keyword search in CBCA

Searching tips Use “debate” language Be clear & specific Versus, for against, argument Be clear & specific Correct spelling is important Phrase searching “social promotion” Leave out and, the, a , of . . . Use the * wildcard (e.g. child* for child, children ; punish* for punish, punishing, punishment etc. Computers do not interpret what we are trying to find. Don’t expect them to know what you are looking for. Google does have a handy feature that offers suggestions when your spelling appears to be incorrect. Don’t always count on it. Try to use correct spelling. Use quotation marks to search for a specific phrase or words appearing in that specified order. If not the search engine will search for all the words in any possible order. And, the, a, of . . .can slow down your search speed. They are not necessary to include in your search. You will get the same results with or without them. If location is important include it in your search. For example: birthrate statistics Canada, will give you relevant Canadian statistics, whereas birthrate statistics will give you stats from all over the world

Going Beyond Google WVHS Library has licensed several databases that provide access to full text articles and current information: (accessible from home as well if you have the passwords) http://destiny.wvcsd.org/common/servlet/presenthomeform.do?l2m=Home&tm=Home&l2m=Home

Evaluate your sources Think critically about the information you find. Remember that your opponent will be as well. Ask yourself some of these questions… Up to date? Fair? Biased, unsupported arguments Purpose? To sell, to inform, to attract Author? Reputable, unknown There is no central authority for the internet, so you must think critically about the information you see and read online. Also be aware when using other sources, newspapers, publications, videos may cause concern as well.

Accuracy Does the source seem correct? Do you need to cross check the information with a second source? Is it peer-reviewed?

Currency Is this source up to date? How old is too old?

Objectivity Is this source opinion or fact? Is it unnecessarily biased?

Purpose What is the purpose of this source? Is it trying to inform, to sell, to promote?

Authority Who is the author / publisher of this source? Is she/he a well-known researcher in the field? Is the journal accepted as authoritative by researchers?

Get Organized to Debate Take lots of notes Use index cards or paper that can easily be reorganized Keep the notes short Add personal comments Include facts and statistics Acknowledge your sources for credibility http://webster.commnet.edu/mla/notes.shtml

Get Organized to Debate Develop a thesis statement to guide your debate Formulate a plan for an introduction, presentation of evidence and conclusion

Thesis Statement A thesis statement is the basic argument advanced by a speaker or writer who then attempts to prove it; the subject or major argument of a speech or composition ww2.aps.edu/~apsedumain/CurriculumInstruction/glossary.htm A thesis statement: states the topic / main idea of the debate shows the purpose of the debate shows the direction of your argument is captivating

Thesis examples It is better to spank children. weak example Studies have shown that spanking children is an effective means of behavioural modification and that if used properly, leads to a better disciplined and more socially productive adult. stronger example

Introduction Your point must have a basic, clear introduction. You can open with a general thought or anecdote, but directly connect the intro to your thesis statement. Start by being strong and confident.

Evidence Gather at least three pieces of evidence to support your claim.  Have information on each “sub topic” prepared ahead of time. 

Conclusion Conclude your debate by disproving the opponent’s point. Reaffirm your position by repeating the highlights of your evidence. Restate your thesis.

Rebuttal Do your research to be well-prepared for contra arguments. Take notes of the points to rebut. Concentrate on the important points and use logic to show why the other side is wrong. Attack each argument that the opposition presents in turn.

Debate Tips Search the web for debating videos. Have notes prepared, but do not let your debate become an oral presentation of a written essay.  Practice speaking aloud in front of a mirror or other people. Understand both sides of the debate so that you are prepared to contradict the other side. Be ready to let go of small points. Concentrate on debating the main topics and prepared evidence.

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