1. Why Words Matter…

2. …In a resolution Helps you decide what to debate
A well worded proposition has:
Significant and contemporary issues
Arguments and evidence available on both sides of the resolution
Clear and neutral wording
A focus on one idea
When starting out your research, identify key words in the proposition to define.

3. …In a Definition A good definition creates necessary limits.
In the debate
In your research
Not every word in a proposition needs to be defined.
Some phrases have a consensus, common understanding, about their meaning.
Examples: United States, federal government

4. Where do you find good definitions?
Look at:
Common usage – what does the average person on the street think?
Authorities – dictionaries and specialized dictionaries
Encyclopedias – can provide more information than a dictionary at times
Books, articles, or scholarly journals – a more modern or nuanced interpretation
Examples – when it’s not easy to put into words, find examples that represent the interpretation you are looking for

5. A good definition is… Relevant to the field of argument
Consistent with common usage
Consistent with policymakers
Consistent with grammatical standards

6. Who defines the terms? Affirmative Negative
Has the right and responsibility to define the terms of the debate
Can either accept the Affirmative’s definitions or attack them.
May attack definitions for being:
Off topic
Too narrow
If you attack a definition, you MUST
Explain why it is bad
Replace it with a definition of your own
Explain why your definition is appropriate