Formal debates follow a structured format. They begin with a statement, such as "That all students should complete Year 12". Teams consist of three speakers who either argue for or against the statement. The first speaker from each side introduces their argument and key terms. Subsequent speakers rebut the previous opposition and provide evidence to support their own side, explaining why the statement is true or false. The final speaker summarizes their side's main points and aims to leave a lasting impression with a memorable closing statement. Questions are permitted at the end for clarification.

1. Formal Debate

2. Usually begins with the word “that” Eg. That all students should complete Year 12 The Topic

3. Affirmative Arguing for the statement Negative Arguing against the statement Three people in each team Team

4. first affirmative first negative second affirmative second negative third affirmative (team captain) third negative (team captain) Speaking order

5. Have a strong opening sentence. Define all key terms. Could introduce evidence Finish with a strong statement about why the statement in true. First Speaker for the Affirmative

6. Strong opening statement Redefine the key terms to suit your argument. Could introduce evidence. Finish with a strong statement about why the statement in false. First Speaker for the Negative

7. Briefly rebut the first speaker for the negative Be quick about this Provide evidence to support the statement Explain why your evidence makes the statement true. Second Speaker for the Affirmative

8. Briefly rebut the second speaker for the negative Be quick about this Provide evidence to show that the statement is not true. Explain why your evidence show that the statement is not true. Second Speaker for the Negative

9. Use your best speaker for this spot. You should write this response as the negative speakers are speaking. Contradict any negative points that you can. Repeat the main points for your side. Close with a memorable sentence about why the statement is right. Third Speaker for the Postive

10. Use your best speaker for this spot. You should write this response as the positive speakers are speaking. Contradict any postivepoints that you can. Repeat the main points for your side. Close with a memorable sentence about why the statement is wrong. Third Speaker for the Negative

11. Questions and Suggestions