Debate is a form of organized argument or contest of ideas in which participants show in an articulate and clever manner why they believe their side of an issue is best. Debates are often held on current events or significant policy proposals, allowing citizens to be directly involved in political decision-making. Debates can also be a vehicle for critical thinking and engagement with complex issues, fostering strong communication skills, intellectual challenge, and public discourse.
Debating is a popular activity for students of all ages. It helps build strong analytical and rhetorical skills, while requiring students to remain unbiased as they explore differing viewpoints and evidence. It also promotes healthy competition and teamwork, while encouraging the development of a wide variety of research and organizational strategies.
There are many different formats of debate, with each focusing on different skill sets. Extemporaneous debate emphasizes quick reasoning and rebuttal, while Lincoln-Douglas involves one-on-one arguments that are heavily based on morals and personal beliefs. Preparation is essential for a successful debate, and should include researching the topic thoroughly and understanding the audience. Students should also practice delivery and be prepared to adapt their argument based on new information or new audience reactions. They should use compelling anecdotes, factual evidence, and thought-provoking quotes to capture the audience’s attention. They should clearly define their position on the topic, and provide a clear argumentative structure with logical transitions to guide their readers. In addition, they should be able to acknowledge the opposing views of their peers and argue against them with strength.