DEBATING

    1. First affirmative speech (4 minutes)

  • a) We should abolish the monarchy

  • b) Explain why a change is needed.

  • c) Give reasons to support your position

    2. First negative speech (4 minutes)

  • a) Argue against the above affirmative.

  • b) Explain why a change is not needed.

  • c) Show that the arguments for a change are unnecessary, undesirable and invalid

    3. Second affirmative speech (4 minutes)

  • a) Defend the affirmative point of view.

  • b) Attack the negative point of view.

  • c) Respond directly to negative challenges directly and specifically

    4. Second negative speech (4 minutes)

  • a) Attack the affirmative point of view.

  • b) Respond to their specific challenges.

  • c) Defend your position again.

    5. Discussion (10 minutes)

  • a) Ask questions and answer opponents questions.

  • b) Try to point out weaknesses in your opponents' positions.

  • c) Defend your own case.

  • d) Work as a team to defend your case.

    6. Rebuttal break (5 minutes)

  • This gives students time to review the debate and prepare their concluding speeches.

    6. Rebuttal (4 minutes for each group)

  • a) Negative team goes first, then the positive team.

  • b) Time for a final attack on the opposing point of view.

  • c) Time for a final defense of your own point of view.

  • d) Sum up your key arguments.

    Possible sample topics:

  • Native artefacts should all return to the Natives of Canada.

  • Boys and girls should go to separate schools.

  • WEM should not be allowed to have animals on display.

  • Students should have more (less) say in how the school should be run
  • Should we abolish the monarchy?

  • Should human beings be allowed to use animals for sports and entertainment?

  • Should government subsidies of arts be removed?

  • Is stricter punishment the solution to juvenile crime?

  • Should cultural treasures be returned to their country of origin?

  • Should the government enforce stricter censorship laws?

  • Should we enforce mandatory retirement laws?

  • Is the Olympic Dream dead?

  • Should schools have mandatory uniforms?

  • Should we ban the keeping of animals in zoos?
  • Have a good look at plans to change Jasper and Banff National parks.
  • Tax exemption to aborigines?
  • Support American foreign policy?
 
Good Luck!