It's up for Debate

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• Why do you think debating is

an important skill to learn and
practice?

Do Now

• Do you think it’s more

important to win a debate or
learn from the experience?

• What skills do you think are

required to be good at the art
of debating?

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SS: I think debating is an important skill…

SS:I think the skills
required….I think it’s..

2. Write it down on your

white board.

1. What is a debate?
Think about it first.

A debate is a formal discussion or
argument between two or more
individuals (or teams) presenting
opposing viewpoints on a specific
topic. The goal of a debate is to

persuade the audience to support
one side of the issue over the other.
Although there are several debate
formats, they all generally adhere

to a similar structure that allows
both sides to present arguments

and rebuttals.

WHAT IS A DEBATE?

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Analyze this
excerpt.

Have you ever heard the word

rebuttal before? Yes or no!

Debates serve an important function in

society. Firstly, they help us to expand our

knowledge on important topics by

encouraging us to consider a wide range

of viewpoints. This helps us to examine

our own opinions critically!

PURPOSE OF DEBATES

Secondly, debates help us gain a

better understanding of perspectives
that are different from our own. This
can help us have more compassion

and understanding for those we

disagree with—which can help move

the conversation forward (without

merely having an unproductive

shouting match)!

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Make an
inference about
the excerpt on
your white
board.

Next turn
& talk.

Given their formal nature, debates
often come with a variety of rules,

practices, and guidelines that should
be followed. The most important rule

of all, however, is to always be
respectfulduring the debate.

DEBATE ETIQUETTE

Since debates thrive on the

exchange of opposing viewpoints, it

is easy to imagine how we might
have an emotional response to an
argument or claim. To ensure the
effectiveness of debates, we must
not allow ourselves to disrespect the

opposition in any way. Doing so
tarnishes the integrity of debates.

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Make a gist!

No more than 9 to 10 words.

Before you begin a debate, you must
settle on a topic. Debate topics can
span a wide range of subjects, from
current events and politics to social

issues, science, technology, and
more! An important thing to note
about debate topics is that they

should always be written in the form of

a statement (not a question). They

should also be specific—and

something that people sometimes
disagree with. This makes debates

more interesting and relevant.

DEBATE TOPICS

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Write down a strong
debatable topic!!

Let’s take a look at the difference
between strong and weak topics:

STRONG VS. WEAK TOPIC

Violent video games should be banned.

This topic is strong because it is

specific (violent video games) and

makes a point that some will disagree

with (they should be banned).

Video games have all sorts of benefits.
This topic is weak. It does not make a

specific point that people would

necessarily argue against, nor is it a

necessarily contentious statement. Surely,

video games have some benefits!

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Identify which of the following is the

strong topic and which is the weak one.

IT’S YOUR TURN!

2.
Students should not have access to cell
phones in school.

1.
Cell phones have many practical uses.

Which is stronger: example 1 or 2?

1or 2

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Every debate has two sides:

affirmative or negative.

AFFIRMATIVE / NEGATIVE

Affirmative (which means
agreeing with) refers to the
side that agrees with the
topic. They will argue the
statement is correct.

Negative refers to the side
that disagrees with the
topic. They will argue the
statement is wrong.

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DOL: Answer the multiple-choice questions
by writing the answer on your response card.

1.The goal of a debate is to_____ the audience to support one side of the issue over the other.

A.Structure

B.Present

C.Rebuttal

D.persuade

2.

Debates serve an important function in ______

A.America

B.Community

C.Society

D.Courts

3.

Secondly, debates help us gain a better __________ of perspective that are different from our own

A.Knowledge

B.Understanding

C.Skills

D.Trust

4.

Every debate has two sides:
__________ or ____________

A.

affirmative or positive

B.

rebuttal or argument

C.

affirmative or negative

D.

positive or negative

5. What is the most Important rule during debate?

Here are some other debate terms

you will want to know before

beginning a debate.

DEBATE TERMS

Constructive: This is a phase of the

debate where you present your main
arguments and build the foundation

you will draw upon later.

Rebuttal: A rebuttalis when one

side gives evidence that disproves
an argument made by the other

side of the debate.

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WEEK 2 DEBATE !!

Do Now:

Choose a side to argue about
the affirmative or negative.
Advertising on social media is
harmful.
Write 3 to 4 sentences on
your response card.

SS: I choose the affirmative, concerning advertising…..

LO:

Quick Response! Time!

Which argument side did you choose?
The Affirmative or negative side.
Write it on your white board.

Thesis Statement: This is the main

argument or position the

speaker has on a debate topic.

Dropped Argument: A

dropped argument is an

argument in a debate that the
opposition fails to respond to.
Conceded Arguments: These
are points or claims that one

side acknowledges or

accepts as valid without

offering a counterargument.

DEBATE TERMS

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Annotate the key
points on your
response card

Debate Process

Why do you need a Thesis Statement for
debate? Explain why? On your white boards.

Debate Process

Why would someone drop an argument during a
debate? Explain why? On your white board.
2 to 3 sentences.

Turn & Talk

What is a Conceded argument?
Talk to your shoulder partner about it.
Next
Explain? Write it down on your whiteboard.

Ethos, pathos, and logos are

rhetorical devices commonly used in
persuasive writing or speech. These

persuasive techniques help convince

an audience to adopt your

viewpoint by making appeals to their

emotions, ethics, and logic.

READ AND ANNOTATE

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These rhetorical devices are often

used by politicians, activists, leaders,
advertisers—or anyone who needs to
convince an audience of something.

We can use these devices to

improve our debate skills!

DEBATE STRUCTURE

• 1st Affirmative Constructive
• 1st Negative Constructive
• 2nd Affirmative Constructive
• 2nd Negative Constructive
• 1st Affirmative Rebuttal Speech
• 1st Negative Rebuttal Speech
• 2nd Affirmative Rebuttal Speech
• 2nd Negative Rebuttal Speech

Let’s take a closer look at each step!

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Although there are many different
debate formats, here is the basic

structure that we will follow.

Debate Process

1. The debate process

A. Is a process you can think of in the moment
B. follows a very specific, thoughtful structure that
is sequential.
C. Is a process that requires minimal work or
research
D. Is an easy process that anyone can complete.

2. Ethos, pathos, and logic are:

a. Rhetorical devices used to appeal to the
emotions of the audience
b. Not an essential part of the debate writing
process
c. Used only rarely to help support arguments
d. Used by unskilled debaters in their arguments

3.Every debate has two sides which are:

a.Counter-arguments and arguments that exist within
the debate
b. Claim, and evidence which explain each person’s side in the
debate
c.Affirmative and Negative, which explain the
argument for and the opposite side of the debate
d.Thesis statement and dropped argument which
explain both sides of the issue

4.When writing your argument, the argument consists of at least:
-

a.One part; the argument and explanation as to why
b.Two parts, the beginning and the ending of the claim
c.Three parts, the opening, body and conclusion
d.Four parts, the opening, body, conclusion,
and counterclaim for the argument

5. Why should you write a counterargument for your debate topic, even if you are arguing

the affirmative side? Explain your answer.

DO NOW:

Open the debate by sharing

yours and your partner’s names,

your side (affirmative or

negative), and your thesis

statement.

OPENING STATEMENTS

Then, provide at least 3 pieces of

supporting evidence and

reasoning, and conclude with a

summary of your main points.

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• 1st Affirmative Constructive
• 1st Negative Constructive

What are three Rhetorical devices commonly
used in persuasive writing and speech?
1.
2.
3.

Below is an example of what part
of an opening statement for the
affirmative side might sound like:
OPENING STATEMENTS

I’m Sarah Thompson, and this is my

debate partner, James Anderson. We
proudly advocate for the affirmative
position that cell phones should be

allowed in school. We believe that in an
increasingly digital world, integrating cell

phones into the learning environment

enhances educational outcomes.

Research indicates improved resource
access, communication efficiency, and
digital literacy development. Embracing
cell phones is not just a convenience but

a necessity for fostering a modern,
effective educational experience.

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Affirmative Planning

FIRST NEGATIVE CONSTRUCTIVE (3-5 MINUTES)
Name:

PLANNING FOR YOUR DEBATE

OPENING

Thesis Statement

Partner name:

We sincerely take the
affirmative….

AFFIRMATIVE PLANNING

PLANNING FOR YOUR DEBATE

AFFIRMATIVE PLANNING

PLANNING FOR YOUR DEBATE

NEGATIVE PLANNING

NEGATIVE PLANNING

First Negative Constructive

NEGATIVE PLANNING

PLANNING FOR YOUR DEBATE

1. The deb

A. Is a process you can think of in the moment
B. follows a very specific, thoughtful structure that
is sequential.
C. Is a process that requires minimal work or
research
D. Is an easy process that anyone can complete.

2. Ethos, pathos, and logic are:

a. Rhetorical devices used to appeal to the
emotions of the audience
b. Not an essential part of the debate writing
process
c. Used only rarely to help support arguments
d. Used by unskilled debaters in their arguments

3.Every debate has two sides which are:

a.Counter-arguments and arguments that exist within
the debate
b. Claim, and evidence which explain each person’s side in the
debate
c.Affirmative and Negative, which explain the
argument for and the opposite side of the debate
d.Thesis statement and dropped argument which
explain both sides of the issue

4.When writing your argument, the argument consists of at least:
-

a.One part; the argument and explanation as to why
b.Two parts, the beginning and the ending of the claim
c.Three parts, the opening, body and conclusion
d.Four parts, the opening, body, conclusion,
and counterclaim for the argument

5. Why should you write a counterargument for your debate topic, even if you are arguing

the affirmative side? Explain your answer.

COUNTERARGUMENTS

Now that the debate is in full

swing, it’s time to dig deeper into

your main points. Improve your
argument by defending against
challenges to your position with

counter arguments.

Use a thesis here again to keep your
argument clear. Be sure to explain
why the opposition should adopt

your view.
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• 2nd Affirmative Constructive
• 2nd Negative Constructive

Below is an example of what part

of a counterargument for the

affirmative side might sound like:
COUNTERARGUMENTS

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After hearing from the opposition, we
continue to assert our position that cell

phones should be allowed in school.
Despite the negative stance that cell

phones cause distraction and behavior

issues in school, the evidence

overwhelmingly supports the improved
learning and connectivity cell phones
bring. Addressing these concerns, we

believe that proper guidelines can help
lessen distractions and foster responsible
usage in the classroom. Cell phones are
an invaluable learning tool, preparing

students for a tech-driven world.

It’s now time to provide a

rebuttal for the arguments and

counterarguments made
against your position with a

rebuttal speech.

REBUTTAL SPEECHES

Give a point-by-point rebuttal

against both of your opposition’s

constructive speeches while

drawing on evidence for support.

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• 1st Affirmative Rebuttal Speech
• 1st Negative Rebuttal Speech

Below is an example of what

part of a rebuttal for the

negative side might sound like:
While the opposition raises concerns about

distraction, studies show that clear guidelines

minimize misuse. Also, contrary to claims of

misconduct, cell phones promote

responsibility when integrated into the

curriculum. To address the counterargument
that technology could worsen educational
inequality, studies reveal improved access to

resources for all students. We continue to
emphasize the positive impact on learning
outcomes. Our opposition’s concerns are
valid, but our case, grounded in data and
research, demonstrates that allowing cell
phones in schools is not just sensible but

necessary for modern education.

REBUTTAL SPEECHES

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CLOSING ARGUMENTS

Wrap up your debate by pointing
out any arguments dropped by

the opposition; these are

considered your points now

(conceded)! Remind the judges
of your arguments and why they

are more important than the
opposition’s. Finally, help the

audience see the bigger picture
and make them care. End with a
strong appeal to adopt or refute
the resolution. Thank the audience

and the judge(s).

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• 2nd Affirmative Rebuttal Speech
• 2nd Negative Rebuttal Speech

Below is an example of what part

of a closing argument for the

negative side might sound like:
CLOSING ARGUMENTS

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In conclusion, the opposition conceded

crucial points—improved resource

access and digital literacy through cell
phone integration. These are not merely
luxuries but necessities for future-ready

education. Our opposition failed to

counter these important points. As we

champion progress and inclusivity,
consider the broader impact. In a

rapidly evolving world, our stance is not

just practical; it’s necessary for

developing a tech-savvy generation.
Thank you to our judges and audience
for your attention; let's pave the way for

a future-ready education!

Here are some debating tips and
techniques that can help you win

a debate and improve your

debating skills in general:
DEBATING TIPS

Research: Be sure to research your
topic so that when it comes time for
a rebuttal, you are prepared. Also,

be sure to use credible sources!
Be Prepared: Have notes at your

disposal with useful information to refer
to while your opposition is speaking. You
might also want to take notes while the

opposition is speaking as well.

© Presto Plans

Ethos, pathos, and logos are

rhetorical devices commonly used in
persuasive writing or speech. These

persuasive techniques help convince

an audience to adopt your

viewpoint by making appeals to their

emotions, ethics, and logic.

ETHOS, PATHOS, LOGOS

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These rhetorical devices are often

used by politicians, activists, leaders,
advertisers—or anyone who needs to
convince an audience of something.

We can use these devices to

improve our debate skills!

Ethos focuses on the ethics and

credibility of the speaker. It involves

establishing trust and authority,

aiming to convince the audience

that the communicator is

knowledgeable, reliable, and
possesses a good character.

ETHOS

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For example, if you are trying to
convince the audience that cell

phones should be allowed in school,

you might establish credibility by

demonstrating your knowledge on
technology in general—both the

benefits and the drawbacks—to build

your audience’s trust.

Pathos is an appeal to the

emotions of the audience and is
designed to evoke an emotional
response that can influence their

perspective or decision.

PATHOS

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For example, continuing with
the subject of cell phones in
school, you might use pathos

by telling the audience an

emotional story about a time
when phones were used in the

classroom and something

powerful happened.

Logos is an appeal to logic and

involves using evidence, facts, and

sound reasoning to support an
argument. The goal of logos is to

persuade the audience by presenting

a clear, well-structured, and logical

case.

LOGOS

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For example, one way you could use
logos is by drawing on statistics and

logical reasoning. For example, you might
say that over 90% of employed people in

the United States regularly use a cell

phone at work. Accordingly, banning cell

phones from the classroom would be
counterintuitive, given their use in the

workforce (for which students are being

prepared).

What topics would you like
to debate? Keep in mind
what you learned about
what makes for a strong
debate topic. Choose
three topics that are

specific, debatable, and
interesting, and be sure to
write each as a statement

(not a question).

WHAT INTERESTS YOU?

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Once you have a debate

topic and a position

(affirmative or negative),
use the provided graphic
organizer to start planning

your first and second

constructive speeches!

DEBATE PLANNING

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Finally, an important

technique often used in
debating is anticipating

arguments that the

opposition will make ahead

of time. Use the provided

graphic organizer to think of

which arguments your

opposition will make and plan

rebuttals that will counter

these claims!

ANTICIPATE ARGUMENTS

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