Instructions for debates

 

The debate will take the place of lecture on a given topic for that day; thus, teams will be responsible for providing background material on their subjects (from the textbook, for example) as well as arguing their side.  Background material assignments are made on the debate webpage.  At a minimum you should present the relevant material from the textbook, in such a way that it forms a useful introduction to the debate. You may certainly use additional materials if you like.  As part of the presentation of background material, you will be expected to generate and explain at least three terms that will form part of the material for the tests.

 

EVERYONE IN THE CLASS SHOULD LOOK AT THE DEBATE MATERIALS AND READ THE ASSIGNMENT IN THE TEXTBOOK for that day; this material will not otherwise be covered in lecture, but you will be expected to know it for the tests.

 

Your team should meet (or at least e-mail) outside of class, to figure out your program and strategy.  Remember that you will be graded individually on your participation, so each team should arrange matters so that everyone speaks.  I will NOT be grading you on your debating skills, so if you have never debated before, that is not a problem.

 

Note that in order to create a solid argument for your side, you will have to figure out what the opposing side's arguments might be so that you can plan what your counter-argument will be.  You will be expected to present a solid and detailed argument for your side, using background and other information.  If you need visual resources, let me know and I'll bring them in on powerpoint - or you can do this yourselves. 

 

 

The structure of each debate will be the following:

 

I.  Presentation of the background material

            A.  Team 1 (as on the website) - 10 minutes

            B.  Team 2 (as on the website) - 10 minutes

 

II.  Questions from the class

 

III.  Presentation of the proposition - Team 1 - 8 minutes

            A.  Define the topic and the basis of your argument

            B.  Give your main arguments in detail, including quotes from primary sources

 

IV.  Presentation of the opposition - Team 2 - 8 minutes

            A.  Define the basis of your argument, possibly rebutting some points of Team 1.

            B.  Give your arguments in detail, including quotes from primary sources

 

V.  Counter-arguments - 15 minutes

            A.   Team 1

            B.   Team 2

 

VI.  Summaries (3 minutes each):  summarize your arguments, rebut the arguments of the main team, state why your argument is preferable

 

VII.  Vote by the class

 

VIII.  Discussion