Definitions: A debate is “a relatively formal procedure whereby two sides of an issue are argued.” (Devito) Debate formats deal with “the nature of speeches. The speaking order and the time limits of each speech in a specialized argumentative field of academic debate.” (Hollihan and Baaske)

Applied and educational debate: Applied debate is conducted on propositions in which the advocates have a special interest and the debate is presented before a judge or audience with power to render a binding decision on the proposition. Educational debate is conducted on propositions in which the advocates have an academic interest.

The four phases of a debate: Constructive phase Cross-examination phase Rebuttal phase Preparation phase

Constructive phase: Debaters advance and develop their cases or “construct” their arguments. Includes the first four speeches in the debate, each debater presents one of those speeches. Affirmative begins followed by the negative constructive speech.

Cross-examination phase: Debaters are engaged in a question-answer interaction. The debater who gave the constructive speech is asked questions by a member of the opposite team. The first affirmative speaker is usually cross- examined by the second negative speaker because the second negative speaker does not follow the first affirmative in the designated speaking order.

Rebuttal phase: Debaters present their final responses to the arguments advanced in the constructive phase as well as the final summary of their respective cases. The rebuttal phase begins following completion of the cross-examination of the second negative speaker. The rebuttal phase is critical to the outcome of the debate.

Preparation phase: The preparation phase is the only nonspeaking part of the debate. During this phase the debaters prepare before presenting the next speech. Each team is given an equal amount of time for this process.

Time limits: Each team receives an equal amount of speaking time. Time limits are enforced. As a debater is important that you devote time to the important arguments and not waste time on weak arguments in an effort to use your time wisely.

Types of debate formats: Team debates: involves 2 person teams and follows several formats. Formats are designed by NDT (National Debate Tournament) of American Forensic Association. Propositions of policy are put forward and the affirmative defends the plan of action.

Lincoln-Douglas format: Involves two people instead of four. Originally Lincoln and Douglas confronted each other in seven 3- hour debates on the values of slavery, freedom, and state rights. Propositions of fact or value can be selected.

Parliamentary debates: Conducted under rules of parliamentary procedure. Parliamentary debates emphasize extemporaneous delivery with very little preparation. 2 person teams with one team representing the government and the other the oppostion. A Prime Minister is involved which represents the opposition.

More: Any subject can be used and does not need to fall under fact/value or policy.

Mock trial competition: Bar associations sponsor mock trial competitions for students. Introduces students to the legal system and provides insight into case construction, argument selection, cross- examination, and oral advocacy. Normally two teams of six students each but can be varied.

More: Each team consists of three student attorneys and three witnesses. A faculty advisor guides the students through oral presentation skills and an attorney who helps them with legal issues. Each team prepares its own case. Students take turns with questioning, closing statements, etc. Typically lasts 1 ½ -2 hours.

Conclusion: Debate involves a lot of preparation, quick thinking, good analysis skills, good note taking, good oral presentation skills, and competitiveness.