Debate

What is the primary role of the First Proposition speaker in a WSDC debate?

• To challenge the definition of the motion

• To introduce and define the motion, outline burdens, and present key arguments

• To provide only rebuttals to the Opposition’s case

• To summarize the debate without adding any new arguments

Answer explanation

The primary role of the First Proposition speaker is to introduce and define the motion, outline the burdens of the debate, and present key arguments, setting the stage for the debate.

Who is allowed to deliver the Reply Speech in a WSDC debate?

• Any of the three speakers

• Only the First Speaker

• Only the Second or Third Speaker

• Only the First or Second Speaker

Answer explanation

In a WSDC debate, the Reply Speech can only be delivered by the First or Second Speaker. This allows for a strategic summary of the debate, ensuring that the main arguments are effectively addressed.

When are Points of Information (POIs) allowed to be offered in a speech?

• Throughout the entire speech

• Only during the first and last minute of a speech

• Between the 1st and 7th minute of an 8-minute speech

• Only during the last two minutes of a speech

Answer explanation

Points of Information (POIs) are allowed between the 1st and 7th minute of an 8-minute speech, allowing for interaction while ensuring the speaker maintains control over the speech's flow.

What is a key responsibility of the Third Speaker in a WSDC debate?

• To introduce entirely new independent arguments

• To focus on rebuttals and responding to the other team's case

• To redefine the motion and set a new framework for the debate

• To present the reply speech

Answer explanation

The Third Speaker's key responsibility is to focus on rebuttals and respond to the opposing team's arguments, reinforcing their team's case rather than introducing new arguments or redefining the motion.

What happens if a debater’s POI lasts more than 15 seconds?

• It is considered invalid, and the speaker must sit down

• The speaker holding the floor must respond regardless of length

• The judge will deduct points from the offering speaker

• The debate stops until the point is fully heard

Answer explanation

If a debater's Point of Information (POI) exceeds 15 seconds, it is deemed invalid, and the speaker must sit down. This rule ensures that the debate remains structured and time-efficient.

Which of the following is true about new arguments in the Third Speaker’s speech?

• They are allowed without restriction

• They are only allowed if flagged in the First Speaker’s speech

• They are strictly prohibited

• They can be introduced as long as they are strategic

Answer explanation

The Third Speaker can only introduce new arguments if they were flagged in the First Speaker's speech. This ensures that the debate remains focused and relevant to previously discussed points.

In a WSDC debate, what is a key feature of the Reply Speech?

• It must introduce at least one new argument

• It is an unbiased summary of the debate

• It compares both teams’ contributions and explains why their side won

• It is delivered by the Third Speaker

Answer explanation

The Reply Speech is crucial as it compares both teams’ contributions and articulates why one side prevailed, summarizing the debate's key points effectively.

What does the term "Proposition Fiat" mean in a WSDC debate?

• The motion assumes that the action proposed is possible

• The Proposition team must prove that their action is feasible

• The Proposition can change the motion if necessary

• The motion only applies to democratic nations

Answer explanation

The term "Proposition Fiat" means that the motion assumes the proposed action is possible, allowing the Proposition team to argue for its implementation without needing to prove feasibility.

If the Opposition disagrees with the Proposition’s definition of the motion, what is the best course of action?

• Ignore the definition and debate their own case

• Accept it to avoid a definition debate unless it is clearly unreasonable

• Introduce a completely new motion

• Use a dictionary definition to counter the Proposition

Answer explanation

Accepting the Proposition's definition avoids unnecessary debates over definitions, allowing the Opposition to focus on their arguments. This is preferable unless the definition is clearly unreasonable, which would warrant a challenge.

What is the main purpose of a Point of Information (POI) in a debate?

• To distract the speaker

• To clarify a point made by the speaker

• To summarize the debate so far

• To challenge the speaker's arguments

Answer explanation

The main purpose of a Point of Information (POI) in a debate is to challenge the speaker's arguments. This allows debaters to engage directly with the points made and test their validity.