Term
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Definition
The formal statement of the issue to be debated. During the debate, the
speakers take opposing sides on the proposition. It is a statement of policy, not of fact. It
should propose a specific change in existing conditions or policies. |
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Term
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Definition
The side of the debate that argues for the change advocated in the proposition.
During the debate, the affirmative side presents arguments and evidence to support the
proposition. |
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Term
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Definition
The side of the debate that argues against the change advocated in the proposition.
During the debate, the negative side presents arguments and evidence to oppose the
proposition. |
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Term
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Definition
The statement of an objective reason that directly supports the position of either
the affirmative side or the negative side. |
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Term
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Definition
Facts, statistics, expert testimony, or other specific details that directly support an
argument. |
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Term
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Definition
A complete outline of all the necessary definitions, arguments, and evidence on both
sides of a proposition. |
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Term
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Definition
An effort by speakers to answer or disprove arguments presented by the other
side in a debate. |
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Term
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Definition
The first speech given by each debater. Both affirmative and negative
speakers use their constructive speeches to present the arguments in support of their
positions. Except for the first speaker in the debate, they may include some refutation in
their constructive speech. |
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Term
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Definition
A speech in which refutation is the primary activity. Usually, each
debater gives one constructive speech and later, one rebuttal speech, half as long as the
constructive speech. In his or her rebuttal speech, the debater may also try to bolster
arguments refuted by the other side, clarify positions, and summarize arguments. |
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Term
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Definition
An opposing team member may request information from the speaker
(who may decline). If the speaker agrees to allow it, they cede that time to the questioner
(generally up to 15 seconds). |
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