Creation vs. Evolution II

How to debate

Debating is a useful, lifelong skill. Competitive debating has a specific format to help focus the argument and maintain order in the discussion. In a debate, two sides argue a proposition. A proposition is a debate subject that can be discussed from opposing points of view. An example of a debate would be:

"Resolved, that DNA comparisons establish a common ancestor for primates and humans".

Once a proposition is selected, teams of 2 to 4 people are formed. One team supports the proposition (the affirmative team). The other team opposes the proposition (the negative team).

Each member makes both a statement about the proposition and a rebuttal statement to the opposite team. Normally there are as many rebuttal stements as there are statements about the proposition. Judges may be used to determine the winning team. For example, judges might award points for clarity of communication, mastery of information, knowledge of the topic, courtesy, teamwork, etc.

You can find more information about debating and scoring debates at these sites

• ACT Debating Union web site

• American Parliamentary Debate Association

• APDA's Guide to Parliamentary Debate

• Hart House Debating Club

If you'd like to participate in a informal debate online, go to our topical debate page.

 

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