Debate Basics
Speech Breakdown
Key Debate Terms
Judge’s Mindset
BONUS “Fast Thinkers!”
100

This term refers to the topic or statement being debated



What is the motion?

100

This type of speech builds or presents your main case using arguments and evidence.

What is a constructive speech?

100

This type of speech is designed to summarize and counter opposing arguments.


What is rebuttal?

100

Judges look for clear organization, solid evidence, and this confident quality in a strong debate.

What is confidence (or delivery)?

100

Name three things a good speaker does — you have five seconds!


What are speaking clearly, 

using evidence,

 and staying confident?


200

This team argues in favour of the motion

Who is the proposition or affirmative team?

200

This speech summarizes the main points and persuades the judge at the end of the debate

What is a rebuttal speech? 

200

This term means to prove something false or incorrect.

What is refute or refutation?

200

This quality helps speakers make their arguments persuasive and memorable to the judge.


What is clarity? Or clear

200

In one sentence, convince us that rainy days are better than sunny days.


Answers may vary: example

What is a rainy day helps us relax, stay cozy, and recharge?


300

This team carries the burden of proof in a debate

Who is the proposition team?

300

This is the act of proving your opponents argument wrong or weak.

What is refuting (or to refute)?

300

This is another name for the Affirmative team.

What is the proposition?

300

Debaters use emotional appeal, logic, and examples as part of this strategy to persuade the judge.


What is rhetoric (or persuasive technique)?


300

Complete this sentence: “The burden of proof means…”

What is “the proposition must prove the motion is true”?

400

Because they open the debate, this team must also close it

Who is the proposition team?

400

This element strengthens your constructive speech, by backing claims with facts and data.

What is evidence?

400

This term means to build or develop your team’s arguments.

What is constructive?

400

This skill helps judges and audiences follow your arguments from start to finish.


What is organization?

400

Name two polite ways to disagree with your opponent.


Answer may vary example:

What are “I respectfully disagree because…” and “That’s an interesting point, but…”?


500

This element of a debate sets the focus and boundaries of what’s discussed

What is the motion?

500

This technique makes your rebuttal stronger by using your opponents own word against them

What is countering or turning their argument

500

This word refers to a main point or claim that supports your sides case.


What is contention?

500

Judges might vote against a team if they fail to do this to their opponents arguments.


What is refuting their arguments?


500

Define “refute” in five words or less.


What is prove something wrong or false?


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