Debate topic assignments                                                      

Background reading from the Foreign Policy Association

Each student will participate in an oral debate on a topic from the Great Decisions book. The book should arrive in the campus bookstore sometime during the week of January 22. Four students will participate in each debate. I expect, but do not guarantee, that we will hold the debates on the dates indicated on the syllabus. As we get close to these dates you can double check with me. 

The order of presentations in each debate will be: 
1. First affirmative speaker - should lay out the basic affirmative argument in an orderly fashion and define all the necessary terms. 

2. First negative speaker - should lay out the basic negative argument in an orderly fashion and define all the necessary terms. 

3. Second affirmative speaker - should point out the weaknesses of the negative argument and answer the criticisms of the negative argument. Finish by summarizing the affirmative argument. 

4. Second negative speaker - should answer the criticisms of the affirmative argument and point out the weaknesses of the affirmative argument. Finish by summarizing the negative argument. 

Each team must prepare a list of the main points in their argument. 
Each team must prepare a list of the main points in their affirmative and negative arguments on a handout for the class. This should very, very simple, just a numbered list of reasons, no detailed explanation. Email the handout to me by 9:00 a.m. on the morning of your debate and I will make copies for the class.

Each student should speak for about 4-5 minutes. If you go much over 6 minutes I will interrupt and stop you. This will leave about 10 minutes for the class to ask you questions and engage in a general discussion. 

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Your debate performance will be evaluated according to the following standard criteria: 

1. Mastery of content: 

     a. Organization and content of the argument 

     b. Clarity of the thesis in the introduction 

     c. Clarity of the thesis in a conclusion 

     d. Ability to answer questions 

2. General presentation quality: 

     a. Eye contact with audience 

     b. Voice pace and expression 

     c. Grammar 

3. Appropriate length 

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HINTS TO ENHANCE THE QUALITY OF YOUR PRESENTATION: 

1. Always include a brief introduction and conclusion in oral presentations. 

2. It is not advisable to read directly from a prepared text. Most people who do this end up 
speaking too quickly and in a monotone. It is best to speak from an outline. 

3. Strive to be active during the question period. 

4. Do not wear a hat, chew gum, or put your hands on your face. These things detract from the
quality of your presentation.