Debate is a type of public discussion in which two teams discuss an actual problem, being in opposite positions in this discussion. Participation in debates contributes to the development of public speaking skills, the ability to prove one's argument reasonably, logical thinking and gaining self-confidence. And in order to feel all the advantages of these games of the mind, you need to know how to properly prepare for the debate.
Instruction manual
1
Practice correctly and clearly articulate words. The main duty of the speaker is to convey the position of the team to the audience in an accessible and convincing way. Naturally, people with illegible speeches cannot see victory in debates. Therefore, preparing for a speech, speak tongue twisters, monitor the pace of speech, the pitch and volume of the voice.
2
Define a circle of terms that you will appeal during your speech. Each team should be informed about the topic of discussion before the debate. In the school and student debates, the theses that the teams defend are distributed in advance. Your task in preparing for the argumentation of such a thesis is to collect as much information as possible about the problem and clearly identify those terms that relate to it. Using them in your speech, you prove your understanding of the main topic and subject of debate.
3
Build a plan of argumentation for your team’s main point. It should include: greeting students, introducing themselves and the team, substantiating the relevance of the topic, putting forward a team thesis, presenting arguments, concluding with a summary of what was said, and expressing gratitude for the attention.
4
Practice delivering your speech on time. Each speaker has a strict speech schedule, which is usually limited to five minutes. During this time, you should have time to make all the speech prepared in advance and, moreover, to make it so that the listeners understand you.
5
Learn the main points of your speech. Reading from the sheet, of course, is not prohibited, but it is much more effective to establish eye contact with the audience, as this is what will give confidence to your image on the podium.
note
Remember that debates are intellectual games and the use of vernacular, jargon, slang or, moreover, mate in a speaker’s speech is unacceptable. Treat your opponents with respect, be polite in your speech. It is also forbidden to interrupt the speaker of the opposing team, you can ask questions, but either at the specially allotted time for this, or with the consent of the opponent.
