Topicality and Theory

What is debate theory?

• The study of logical fallacies in debate

• The strategic framework for how debates should be conducted

• The rules governing formal speaking times

• A method for organizing evidence

Which of the following is a key concept in topicality arguments?

• Harms

• Solvency

• Definitions

• Impact

In a topicality argument, which part is responsible for explaining the meaning of a term in the resolution?

• Violation

• Standards

• Definition

• Voters

What is the "Violation" in a topicality argument?

• The claim that the affirmative plan does not meet the definition

• The impact of the affirmative plan

• The proposed definition of a term

• The standard by which the plan should be judged

What is "Ground" in the context of debate theory?

• The physical space where debates take place

• The equal ability of both teams to argue their positions

• The moral high ground in debates

• The stance taken by the affirmative team

What does the "Standards" part of a topicality argument refer to?

• The specific harms caused by the affirmative plan

• Reasons why the negative team’s definition is better

• An assessment of how the affirmative plan can solve the problem

• A comparison between different impacts

What is a “voter” in the context of a topicality argument?

• A reason the judge should reject the affirmative’s case

• The person who decides who wins the debate

• An argument that explains why the affirmative plan is necessary

• The final impact of the negative’s counter-plan

Which of the following is NOT typically a standard in topicality debates?

• Limits

• Bright-line

• Fairness

• Significance

Topicality arguments only apply to the affirmative team's case

• True

• False

Debate theory argues that fairness and education are two of the most important considerations in evaluating a debate.

• True

• False