How to formulate a good debate The Art of Debate How to formulate a good debate

What are the parts of an argument? Claim Warrant Impact

Things that make an awesome debate: Things you did well! Things that can be better… You had very good sources Most of you had very good organization for your speeches and arguments Clear introductions and conclusions Reading Pronunciation Keeping interest – look up, especially during the impacts Paying attention to others’ speeches

The Rebuttal What is a rebuttal? When an opponent takes his foe’s idea and points out what is wrong with it. What makes a rebuttal good? 4-step process Therefore… Why is your argument better? (better reasoned, better evidenced, more important, etc.) Because… Put your reasoning here; warrant and impact in regard to opponent’s argument But… Use a transition word Clearly state your argument What did they say? Paraphrase the other team’s claim, warrant, and/or impact

What is a Rebuttal?

What are good transition words/phrases? However In spite of On the other hand In contrast On the contrary Yet, on one hand But* Conversely I disagree* At the same time In fact While this may be true. As a matter of fact Contrarily Notwithstanding Nevertheless *weak

Reasoning Logic Experience Emotion Numbers Personal life Positive or negative emotions

Example Opponents Warrant: Research shows that if a person exercises at least once a week, they can avoid becoming obese. Your rebuttal: Exercise helps fight obesity, but it is not good alone. To avoid obesity, we need to also look at mental health.

Debate 2 Final Information – December 11 The students will be split into groups of two. Each group will pick a topic to debate and will begin researching for it. The students must have chosen a topic that allows for a clear pro/con relationship. The debate must be at least 12-15 minutes long. The debate must contain all the parts of an argument and all the parts of a rebuttal as a part of their debate. Students must have at least 7 sources per side. So each debate will have a total of 14 sources. The students will then answer questions from the other students and the professor. Students not debating will be expecting to ask intelligent questions. 12-15 minutes Pick a topic (think of time limit, sources, interest, feasibility, etc.) (Due by November 20) Contains all parts of an argument or debate Has a total of 14 sources, 7-pro and 7-con (list due to prof. by December 4) Both students participate activity in debate and challenge the opponent’s ideas Students not debating ask intelligent questions of debaters