THE AFF – BURDEN AND STRUCTURE Taking sides and meeting obligations

TAKING SIDES The Resolution “we argue about significant controversies that are inherently uncertain; we argue about that which could be otherwise.” The Resolution The resolution is the PRIMARY claim, the EXACT proposition to be debated, the matter that is to be decided. Resolution formed as a response to a specific controversy which is larger than the resolution itself. AFF will always be responsible for proving the resolution true TAKING SIDES

PRESUMPTION AND THE LAW Presumption: The assumption that conditions and policies should remain as they are. Which side has the POWER of presumption? Presumption and our legal system What assumption are all of our courts based on? What are the implications of this assumption? Does either side have an advantage? The “Status Quo” as defendant PRESUMPTION AND THE LAW

“Those that who assert must prove.” Because the status quo is already “presumed” to be adequate, the AFF team must PROVE that changing the current system is either necessary or advantageous. This obligation is referred to as the BURDEN OF PROOF Unless the AFF proves the resolution true, the NEG wins the debate. “Those that who assert must prove.”

In order to meet the BURDEN OF PROOF the Aff must present a prima facie case which is Latin for “on first look.” To meet the prima facie criteria in debate, a team must have a plan for implementing a resolution, and a justification for doing so. The Prima Facie Case

EXAMINING CONTROVERSIES AND DISCOVERING ISSUES Before an Affirmative can do anything, however, they must first understand the nature of the controversy and the issues that arise naturally from it. Resolved: Rocky should institute mandatory school uniforms. Controversy – Equity/Safety in schools. Issues? Bullying, economic class divides, student self- esteem, etc. EXAMINING CONTROVERSIES AND DISCOVERING ISSUES

ORGANIZING COMPLEX ARGUMENTS There are three major patterns for organizing complex arguments. Series - Each argument dependent on others and arranged in a specific order ultimately affirming the resolution. Convergent – Each argument is independent of the others but must stand together to affirm. Parallel – Each argument is independent and by itself justifies affirming. ORGANIZING COMPLEX ARGUMENTS

POSSIBLE CASE STRUCTURES