M3S Debate Process
Vocabulary: Affirmative, Pro, For = YES
Negative, Con, Against = NO
Rebuttal: a form of evidence that is presented to contradict or nullify other evidence that has been presented by the adverse or opposite party.
Debate Guidelines
1. Research supporting evidence topic via internet, books, newspapers, magazine articles, etc.
2. Explore all sides of the issue. You will need to know both sides so you are ready for the REBUTTAL.
3. Defend your SIDE (Pro or Con) NOTE: You are REQUIRED to site 3 – 5 references.
4. Each Member of the Team SPEAKS!
Preparing Your Debate
Opening Statement (first speaker)
In the opening statement you state your main argument in three main points, briefly summarize your argument without giving SPECIFIC information. Have an attention grabber.
Topic Presenters – 3 Speakers
First Speaker – State First point, listing specific details, and evidence.
Second Speaker – State Second Point, listing specific details and evidence.
Third Speaker – State Third point, listing specific details and evidence.
Rebuttal Presenters – Speaker
Refute the points of the opposing team's points using specific information to disprove the point. (your team will take notes while the other team speaks to prepare your rebuttal)
Closing Statement – final speaker
Present the closing viewpoints for the team. Repeat the main idea and the main reasons, and end with a memorable statement.
During the debate each will have a turn to present it’s side, starting with the Affirmative. There will be a brief rebuttal conference consisting of 2 minutes.
Order of Debate
Affirmative Opening Statement
Negative Opening Statement
Affirmative First Point
Negative First Point
Affirmative Second Point
Negative Second Point
Affirmative Third Point
Negative Third Point
Negative Rebuttal
Affirmative Rebuttal
Affirmative Closing Statement
Negative Closing Statement
Rules
No Put
Downs.
No
Interruptions.
No
Whispering while another speaker is talking.
Times
Opening Statements for both sides – 1.5 minutes each
Each Point for both sides – 3 minutes each
Rebuttal Conference – 2 minute
Rebuttals – 2 minutes each
Closing Statements for both sides – 1.5 minutes each
This is a formal debate. Professional attire required.