The process of attacking an opponent's arguments. A organized attack on opponents' arguments.

Speeches in debate that challenge and defend arguments introduced in constructive speeches.

Using analysis to connect the evidence to the claim.

Argues against the resolution and the affirmative team's arguments. States the claims that support their position, provides evidence and reasoning, and refutes the affirmatives' arguments.

Individuals who listen to debate, decide the winner, rank debate competitors, and ensure that the experience is educational for all participants in a debate competition.

Taking notes during a debate in order to keep a record of what's been said and prepare for refutations and cross examinations.

Bad or erroneous reasoning that results in an unsound argument.

Evidence from an expert or other external source not including the debater, such as author, researcher, witness, etc.

Measurements, numbers and percentages

First-hand experiences or observations from the debater.

The process of arguing the affirmative or negative side of a resolution against an opposing team, often including a judge or audience or who decides the outcome.

The period during a debate when a member of one team asks questions of an opposing team member to obtain additional information about their arguments and positions.

A speech that presents a debater's basic arguments for or against the resolution.

Controversial statement that a debater supports or refutes with evidence and reasoning. Must have 2 sides.

Using evidence and reasoning to support claims.

Argues in favor of the resolution. Team is responsible for introducing the resolution with relevant definitions, listing the claims that support their argument along with evidence and reasoning, and refuting the other team's arguments.