Strategic Debate Design concise, compelling arguments that can stand up under almost immediate attack from a skilled opponent

Critical Listening Anticipate what the opposition is likely to say. Continually review or summarize what the opposition has been saying. Pay attention to evidence being used Watch for “hidden meanings” Nonverbal messages Critical Listening

Debate teaches to employ critical thinking skills To evaluate both sides of an issue before making a decision To listen critically To speak extemporaneously Organizational skills Values that are essential for living in a democracy Debate teaches

Critical thinking Develop reasons to back up position Analyze a position by exploring reasons for it Understand the reasons behind the opposition’s position Can their arguments refute your own? Critical thinking

Seek out evidence Library, correspondence, debate handbooks Determine how to use evidence Know what your evidence does for your argument Look for responses to evidence Seek out evidence

Research First! An argument is a claim supported by evidence In your notes, write down and analyze the arguments you encounter in your research Argument’s main claim Importance of the main claim Evidence that is used to support the main claim Shortcomings in the supporting evidence Once research is done, separate arguments into those that support the Aff. and those that support the Neg. Add any ideas of your own Research First!

Strategic ACtivity Strategy: overall plan of attack Tactic: specific techniques used to fulfill the plan Need both to win a debate Strategic ACtivity