Debating is a structured argument where two or more sides discuss a specific issue and promote their own beliefs on the topic. It’s a great way to understand different perspectives and formulate the best answer to an issue. 

It’s a formal discussion in which two or more individuals or teams present their arguments for or against a particular topic or proposition. The goal of a debate is to persuade the audience and convince them of the validity of a particular viewpoint or position.

In a typical debate, each side presents their arguments, evidence, and supporting examples, while refuting the arguments and evidence presented by the opposing side. Debates can take many forms, from a structured format with formal rules and time limits to more informal discussions.

Debates are commonly used in academic and educational settings, such as in schools and universities, as well as in political, legal, and business contexts. They can cover a wide range of topics, from social and political issues to scientific and technical subjects.

Debating skills are highly valued in many fields, as they require critical thinking, effective communication, and the ability to think on one’s feet. Debating helps individuals to develop their ability to analyze complex issues, identify key arguments and evidence, and present their viewpoints in a clear, concise, and convincing manner.

Classroom Debate

It’s your turn to try out your debating skills. Whether individual or as a group, depending on your teachers instructions, brainstorm and then debate as a class a solution to find a better balance between people and nature. You will pretend you are in the House of Commons and are debating this idea.

  1. Assign roles: Assign roles to the participants, such as Prime Minister, Leader of the Opposition, Speaker, and members of parliament from different political parties. You can also assign roles to the audience, such as reporters or lobbyists.
  2. Research: Ask the participants to research the topic and prepare their arguments. Encourage them to read different sources and perspectives, and to practice their speaking skills.
  3. Set up the debate: Choose a room or a space that can accommodate the participants and the audience. Set up a podium for the speaker and a seating area for the members of parliament. You can also create a seating area for the audience.
  4. Start the debate: Begin the debate by having the Speaker call the House to order. Each member of parliament can then present their argument, alternating between the government and opposition sides. The Speaker can enforce rules, such as time limits and decorum.
  5. Conclude the debate: At the end of the debate, the Speaker can ask for a vote. The audience can also be asked to provide feedback on the arguments and the performance of the participants.

Debating Tips

  1. Stay calm and speak confidently
  2. Do you research and understand the issue in detail
  3. Have data, research and statistics to back up your points
  4. Be clear and to the point, avoid going off topic
  5. Present different ideas and think outside of the box
  6. Provide examples when you can
  7. Show empathy for others and put yourself in their shoes
  8. Practice stating your main points before debating
  9. Show your passion, but don’t get overwhelmed or angry
  10. Make eye contact with the people you are debating with
  11. Keep notes on ideas for rebuttal

Suggested Timing

Affirmative group receives 2 minutes to present the case: Define the issue and your proposed plan of action using 2-3 specific supporting evidence or ideas.

Negative receives 2 minutes to present their case: Rebut the proposed plan and include 2-3 reasons that you deny the idea.

Each side has 2 minutes to prepare a rebuttal and summary of the first 2 minutes.

Affirmative – present the rebuttal of the negative reasoning and provide a summary arguing against the reasoning.

Negative and affirmative discuss specific points. Last to speaks the affirmative. Restate the plan and summarize what has been learned and considered after listening to the negative.

Evaluating the Debate:

  1. Groups statements clearly support their position
  2. Statements appear to be well researched and documented
  3. Speakers address opposition and make appropriate eye contact and volume
  4. Rebuttals were specific and expressed clearly
  5. Concluding arguments were effective and convincing
  6. Groups adhered to rules of the debate
  7. The effort of the entire team was even and effective