Debate Skills

What is the purpose of a constructive speech?

• To introduce new evidence

• To summarize the debate

• To present main arguments

• To ask questions

Cross-examination is mainly used to…

• Compliment the opponent

• Challenge arguments with questions

• Add new arguments

• End the debate

Which part of the debate cannot include new evidence?

• Constructive speech

• Cross-examination

• Rebuttal

• Closing speech

A resolution must always be…

• Negative

• Positively stated

• A question

• A quote

Which team argues for the resolution?

• Neutral team

• Judge team

• Affirmative team

• Negative team

Which team argues against the resolution?

• Negative team

• Affirmative team

• Audience

• Moderator

Cue cards should be used to…

• Read word-for-word

• Replace memorization

• Help stay organized without reading everything

• Distract the opponent

Time constraints refer to…

• How many questions can be asked

• How long each speaker may talk

• How fast judges must decide

• How long research takes

What happens if you ignore an opponent’s argument?

• It disappears

• The judge ignores it

• The audience may accept it as true

• No effect

A closing speech should…

• Introduce new evidence

• Provide a full summary and reinforce your side

• Ask new questions

• Challenge the judge