PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT DEBATE COMPETITION

Respectful discourse

• Avoid personal attacks, insults, and other harmful language.

• Be respectful of the opposing team's right to express their views, even if you disagree with
them.
• Listen carefully to the opposing team's arguments and try to understand their perspective.
• Be willing to engage in civil dialogue, even if you disagree with the opposing team.
• Evidence-based arguments

All arguments must be supported by evidence, such as facts, statistics, and expert opinions.

• Avoid making claims that you cannot support with evidence.

• Be sure to cite your sources when using evidence.
• Be prepared to answer questions about your evidence.

Opening Statements

• Each team must make clear, concise, and persuasive opening statements.
• Emphasize the importance of outlining their arguments and providing a roadmap for the
debate.

Rebuttal is the opportunity to respond to the arguments of the opposing team.

• When rebutting, be sure to directly address the opposing team's arguments.

• Avoid making new arguments in rebuttal.
• Be respectful of the opposing team, even when you are disagreeing with them.
• Time limits
It is important to adhere to the time limits set for the debate.

• Students must follow the Public Forum Debate Format

• If you go over your time limit, you may be penalized by the judge/s.
• It is a good idea to practice your speech ahead of time so that you can make sure that you
stay within the time limit.
Here are some additional tips for debaters:

• Be prepared. Do your research and know your arguments inside and out.
• Be confident. Speak clearly and confidently, and maintain eye contact with the audience.
• Be passionate. Show the judge/s and the audience that you care about the topic and that
you believe in your arguments.
• Be respectful. Treat the opposing team and the judges with respect, even when you disagree
with them.
Remember, the goal of debate is not to win or lose, but to have a thoughtful and respectful
discussion about a complex issue. By following the guidelines above, you can help to ensure that
the debate is a positive and productive experience for everyone involved.