Overview of Congressional Debate (Ch. 2)

What do many students appreciate about Congressional Debate?

• The opportunity to practice public speaking

• The chance to learn about government processes

• The ability to engage in critical thinking

• All of the above

What is legislation in the context of Congressional Debate?

• A type of speech

• A proposed law

• A debate format

• A voting procedure

The U.S. Congress might consider issues such as ______ in public forum and congressional debate.

• healthcare reform

• space exploration

• education policy

• all of the above

Participants prepare for a public forum and congressional debate tournament by:

• Researching topics and practicing speeches

• Watching movies and relaxing

• Ignoring the topics and improvising

• Playing video games

The process of electing the presiding officer in a debate session involves:

• A random selection by participants.

• A vote among the participants.

• Appointment by the event organizer.

• Selection by the previous presiding officer.

The role of the presiding officer in a debate session is to:

• moderate the discussion and ensure rules are followed

• participate actively in the debate

• take notes for the debaters

• judge the quality of arguments

The role of the Presiding Officer (P.O.) in a debate session is to:

• moderate the discussion and ensure rules are followed

• participate actively in the debate

• take notes for the debaters

• judge the debate and declare the winner

The process of setting the agenda for a debate session involves:

• Selecting topics, assigning speakers, and setting time limits

• Choosing a venue, inviting participants, and advertising the event

• Preparing refreshments, arranging seating, and organizing materials

• Conducting a survey, analyzing results, and making decisions

The first speech in favor of the legislation during a debate is significant because it:

• sets the tone for the debate and outlines key arguments.

• provides a summary of the opposing views.

• concludes the debate with a final decision.

• offers a neutral perspective on the legislation.

The questioning period is conducted after a speech in a debate by:

• allowing the audience to ask questions freely

• having a structured Q&A session

• letting the opposing team ask questions

• not having any questioning period