This is the basic guidance on how the debate is constructed.

1. How to Debate

2. Step 1: Research the Topic

3. Step 2: Choose a Side

4. Step 3: Research Your Side

5. Step 4: Design Your (Counter) Argument

6. Step 5: Practice

7. Step 6: Go for it!

8. Structure

9. CLAIM -> WARRANT -> IMPACT
Your Argument
- not a restatement of
the debate topic
- one reason why you
are in favor (PRO) OR
one reason why you
are against (CON)
Your Evidence/Proof
- Must support the claim
- Needs evidence
- quotation,
statistics/data,
or cited
reference but
also can include
powerful
examples or
analogies
Why does this matter?
- Explains why the
evidence matters
- What is significant
about your evidence?
- How does it all support
your side of the
debate?

10. Claim #1 (Argument)
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
____________
Warrant (Evidence)
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
____________
Impact (Why does this matter?)
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
____________

11. Tips to Keep in Mind

12. Keep Composure/Calm

13. Be Patient

14. Listen Carefully

15. Use Effective Speech

16. Be Confident

17. Ready?