Debate Writing - Strategies and Format

A debate is a discussion or an argument especially a formal one, in front of an audience.

POINTS TO REMEMBER::

• Always focus on the topic that needs to be addressed or discussed.
• Avoid any kind of offensive words and be polite.
• Avoid any kind of repeatation and see that there is variety in your expression of ideas.
• Do not forget to mention either FOR or AGAINST the motion. Be convincing in what you write.
• And take both the sides.

Format/Steps

• Salutation-‘Respected chairperson, honourable judges and all present…’.

• Introduction- views for/against-topic.

• Body- views, facts, Contradiction of opponent’s argument, rebutting the statement, questions etc.

• Conclusion- clarification of stand made.

Common phrases

I’d like to raise/the question/argue…..

In my opinion………..

Nothing could be more illogical than

I feel very strongly that…….

I would like to draw attention to…..

I fail to understand…….

I submit that…….

May I ask all present…….

I strongly oppose……..

On the contrary…….