Basic Debate Structure
Core Argumentation
Tactics
Debate Concepts
Miscellaneous
100

The side arguing against the resolution.

What is Negative?

100
The statment that something is true.

What is Claim?

100

Do this during the debate to track arguments and responses

What is Flowing?

100

The affirmative's responsibility to prove the resolution is true.

What is Burden of Proof?

100

The side that is responsible for the Burden of Proof.

What is Affirmative?

200

The pro side of the argument

What is Affirmative?

200

Facts, statistics, and expert opinions used to support a claim

What is Evidence?

200

Directly attacking or disproving the opposing side’s arguments.

What is Refutation?

200

The problems or negative consequences of the status quo.

What is Harms?

200

Its purpose is to gain information, highlight inconsistencies, and weaken the opponent's arguments

What is the purpose of Crossfire/cross-Examination?

300

This speeck happens later and is focused on responding to the opposing argument.

What is rebuttal?

300

This explains why an argument matters by demonstrating its real-world effects or implications

What is Impact?

300

 A period where debaters directly question their opponents to clarify points, expose weaknesses, or gain concessions.

What is Cross-Examaniation/Crossfire.

300

The current state of affairs.

What is the Status Quo?


300

It helps debaters organize information and respond effectively.

What is flowing?

400

this Speech starts first and presents the initial arguments.

What is the Constructive Speech

400

This shows the audience the importance of the arguments being presented.

What is impact?

500
Set of Evidence supporting their side of the resolution.

What is Case?

500

Explain the difference between a "Constructive Speech" and a "Rebuttal Speech.

Constructive Speech: The initial speeches in a debate where each side presents their main arguments and case. Rebuttal Speech: Later speeches focused on responding to the opponent's arguments, rebuilding one's own case, and summarizing key issues.