Speech & Debate Intro

Key Terms in Debate

Let's go over some Vocab!

Claim

1. A debatable statement. 

This is your stance on a debate topic.

For example:

Fall is the best season.

Playstation is better than Xbox.

Resolution

A statement or question giving the topic up for debate.

You may agree or disagree with the resolution statement.

Example of a resolution:

Do videogames make children more violent?

Should cell phones be banned in schools?

You are trying to SOLVE this issue / question.

Stance

Which side of the argument you agree with.

This is your opinion/belief that you are going to argue using evidence.

You could also think of this as your Point of View on a topic or issue.

PRO / Affirmative

AGREES with the resolution (or issue) presented.

Example:

Yes, videogames do make children more violent.

Yes, cell phones should be banned in schools.

CON / Negative

DISAGREES with the resolution / issue.

Examples:

No, videogames do not make children more violent, because....

No, cell phones should not be banned in schools because...

Argument (Debate Definition)

A discussion in which a number of people present different or opposing opinions on a subject / topic using evidence, logic, and reasoning.

Counterargument (CounterClaim)

an argument or set of reasons given to oppose an idea or theory developed in another argument.

(An argument that goes against someone else's claim.)

Evidence

Something that gives proof or leads to a conclusion.

To indicate clearly

Ground for belief

Rebuttal

Showing evidence that contradicts or goes against what the other team has presented. (AKA Counter-argument)

Multiple Choice

A claim is...

• A counterargument

• evidence

• a podium

• a statement

Multiple Choice

The AFFIRMATIVE disagrees with the resolution.

• True

• False

Multiple Choice

The NEGATIVE disagrees with the Resolution.

• true

• false

Open Ended

Any questions so far?.... Anything that confuses you?....