Researching for a Debate

• A debate is, simply put, an argument.
• But rather than being a shouting match between two sides, a debate has strict rules of conduct, utilizing sophisticated techniques.
• You may be put in a position where you must argue the opposite of what you believe in. This is an important part of the art of debating.

• Define the topic
• “layman’s” terms
• Be aware of the scope of the debate
• What is included, what is not included
• Get a clear understanding of your position (Pro vs. Con)
• If in doubt, ask your learning manager for clarification

• Brainstorm ALL possible arguments for & against the topic
• Come up with as many arguments as possible to support your claim
• Think about possible rebuttal arguments
• Use a concept map and PMI

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• Arguments will be based on evidence, facts and statistics.
• Debater will become familiar with the topic, which allows for better flow of ideas and better preparation for rebuttal arguments.
• Over-research.
• Use multiple, diverse sources.

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• Check the library for:
• Books
• Periodicals
• Government documents
• Newspapers
• Videos/DVDs
• Human expertise

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• Check the Internet for:
• Online databases
• Current information (online newspapers, articles, studies. . .)
• Blogs, Wikis, and websites of concerned organizations and societies.

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• Use “debate” language
• Versus, for against, argument
• Be clear & specific
• Correct spelling is important
• Phrase searching
• “social promotion”
• Leave out and, the, a , of . . .
• Use the * wildcard (e.g. child* for child, children ; punish* for punish, punishing, punishment etc.

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• Think critically about the information you find. Remember that your opponent will be as well.
• Ask yourself some of these questions…

• Does the source seem correct? Do you need to cross check the information with a second source?
• Is it peer-reviewed?

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• Is this source up to date? How old is too old?

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• Is this source opinion or fact? Is it unnecessarily biased?

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• What is the purpose of this source? Is it trying to inform, to sell, to promote?

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• Who is the author / publisher of this source?
• Is she/he a well-known researcher in the field? Is the journal accepted as authoritative by researchers?

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• Take lots of notes
• Use index cards or paper that can easily be reorganized
• Keep the notes short
• Add personal comments
• Include facts and statistics
• Acknowledge your

sources for credibility

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http://webster.commnet.edu/mla/notes.shtml

• Develop a thesis statement to guide your debate
• Formulate a plan for an introduction, presentation of evidence and conclusion

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A thesis statement is the basic argument advanced by a speaker or writer who then attempts to prove it; the subject or major argument of a speech or composition

ww2.aps.edu/~apsedumain/CurriculumInstruction/glossary.htm

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A thesis statement:

• states the topic / main idea of the debate
• shows the purpose of the debate
• shows the direction of your argument
• is captivating

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• Your point must have a basic, clear introduction.
• You can open with a general thought or anecdote, but directly connect the intro to your thesis statement.
• Start by being strong and confident.

• Gather at least three pieces of evidence to support your claim. 
• Have information on each “sub topic” prepared ahead of time. 

• Conclude your debate by disproving the opponent’s point. 
• Reaffirm your position by repeating the highlights of your evidence.
• Restate your thesis.

• Do your research to be well-prepared for contra arguments.
• Take notes of the points to rebut.
• Concentrate on the important points and use logic to show why the other side is wrong.
• Attack each argument that the opposition presents in turn.

• Search the web for debating videos.
• Have notes prepared, but do not let your debate become an oral presentation of a written essay. 
• Practice speaking aloud in front of a mirror or other people.
• Understand both sides of the debate so that you are prepared to contradict the other side.
• Be ready to let go of small points. Concentrate on debating the main topics and prepared evidence.