How To Debate

What’s it going to be like?

DebatingIn the first few weeks of debating you may be worried about speaking infront of people on subjects you don’t know. Firstly, you will have time to prepare, where you can think of your arguments and prepare your speech. Other debaters are always happy to help you with ideas as well. Most importantly, we’ve all been there, we’ve all had experiences of not knowing what to say. After a few weeks your confidence will improve along with your knowledge of how to argue and structure your speeches. It really is a case of practice makes perfect, and the more you stick at it the better you will be!

The format

Debating in British Parliamentary style allows for each person to express themselves, but also for them to be challenged. It also ensures that arguments progress and are neatly summaried at the end. There are 4 teams; 1st Proposition, 1st Opposition, 2nd Proposition and 2nd Opposition. Each team has two people, making 8 positions which go in this sequence:

  • First proposition, first speaker outlines the motion, what it means, who it applies to, how it will be implemented, and importantly, why it is necessary and will solve the problem.
  • First opposition, first speaker rebuts the previous speaker and says why the motion is not needed.
  • First proposition, second speaker rebuts the previous speaker and continues proposition arguments.
  • First opposition, second speaker rebuts the previous speaker and continues opposing arguments.
  • Second proposition, first speaker rebuts the previous speaker and extends the proposition arguments, either looking at the bigger picture or drawing upon more detailed examples.
  • Second opposition, first speaker rebuts the previous speaker and extends opposition arguments.
  • Second proposition, second speaker rebuts the previous speaker and summarises the propositions arguments and does not introduce any new information. The summary speakers tend to focus on the points their partner bought to the table, making it look like their team was the best.
  • Second opposition, second speaker rebuts the previous speaker and summarises the oppositions arguments and does not introduce any new information.

Speeches are five minutes in length. The first and last minutes are ‘protected’. ‘Protected’ time means that opposing debaters can not offer points of information. A point of information is where an opposing speaker stands up, says ‘Sir’, and if accepted can make a short point of information. The debater who currently has the floor has the choice of whether to accept or decline points of information. Points of information are ideal ways to throw your opponents and show that you are active throughout the debate.

Soon to come: some of our experienced debaters are going to give insights in to what makes a good debate, a good speech and a good debater.