How to organise a debate

What is a debate?
A debate is a formal discussion of a resolution or proposal with arguments for and against. You find debates in many forums including parliaments, councils, universities and assemblies. In the United Nations Assembly, for example, you have debates before formal votes on resolutions. What is the difference between a debate and a discussion? A debate is a formal discussion with prepared speeches. It starts with formal speeches and is followed by a discussion. A discussion is more informal. You can find more technical details about debates here What is the best format for a debate? There many different ways to debate. The most famous debating society is the Oxford Union and their rules provide a good What happens in a debate? Arguments for and against are presented. There is a discussion and then a vote. For audio examples of how it works try here. What do you need for a class or group debate? You need the following: a motion or resolution a moderator someone to speak for the motion someone to speak against someone to second the motion someone to second the argument against the motion questions from the audience answers from at least one person for & against a clock or timer for the moderator. It's very important to control the time allowed to each speaker.

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How to organise a debate

Below is the Oxford Union format - suitable for large-scale debates. Adapt as required for smaller groups (e.g. reducing times). With younger or less experienced debaters the key is to prepare thoroughly. Allow enough time before the debate for sufficient research. A debate should be a challenging but fun experience. Remember that many people find the idea of speaking in public very scary. Allow pairing (sharing the speaking duty) where this might be the case Moderator presents the statement or motion: e.g 'Dogs are the perfect pet' 2. Before the debate starts there should be a secret vote for or against the motion. The results are counted for/against/undecided and announce the results. 3. Begin with the proposer speaking for the motion (2 mins). 4. The opposer speaks against the motion (2 minutes) 5. The seconder speaks for the motion (1 minute) 6. The opposing seconder speaks against the motion (2 minute) 7. Questions come from the floor. Equal response time should be given to both sides. (10-15 minutes) 8. Proposer concludes for the motion (1 minute maximum) 9. Opposer concludes against the motion (1 minute maximum) 10. Opposer concludes against 11. There is a second vote. 12. The winner is the side which changes the most votes. If the vote is 70:20 with the 10 abstentions at the the start and then 72:28 at the end - the opposing team wins 1.

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