Students' guide: how do I prepare for my debate?
Before you begin writing your speech you should take the following points into consideration:
Each speaker has four minutes and 30 seconds to speak (including the captains’ summation). Make sure you speak for no less than four minutes (or you will look like you didn’t prepare well) and for no more than four minutes and 30 seconds (or you will lose some of your hard earned marks).
Don’t try to cram too much information into your speech. Adjudicators prefer to hear three to four well-developed points, with clear information about each of the points. Find some good solid facts to strengthen your arguments, and make sure to quote your source during your speech to back up your point. Look at the marking sheet before you debate so you know what the adjudicators are looking for. Ensure that your points “flow nicely together”. Points are awarded for clarity and logical thought.
Preparation
Prepare your cue cards for the podium. Do not write your entire speech on them. Put key points, facts and quotes on them, and use them to guide you on to your next point.
Practise, practise, practise! In front of the mirror; using a video camera; in front of your class or parents. The more comfortable and convinced you are of the points you are making, the easier it will be to convince others – especially the adjudicators.
Leave time for refutation and rebuttal. When doing your research, try to predict what the other team will say and keep some statistics that could be used to counteract their arguments. Finally, remember to use your wit! Humour really livens up a debate.
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