Debate Writing
What is Debate Writing?
A formal discussion on a particular matter in a public meeting or legislative
assembly, in which opposing arguments are put forward and which usually ends
with a vote.
E.g. debate on the Education Bill”
In the writing section (Section-B of the exam), it comes as a long answer type
question (5 marks). Generally, there is a choice (internal) and students have to
attempt any one question on debate writing.
When it comes to writing debates during exam, we have to be smart and wise with
our choice and length of words. This is because there are time constraints and
within that time constraint, we have to impress the person checking it. So, without
any further ado, let’s know how to write a perfect debate.
The first and the foremost step is to choose the side, whether you want to write for,
or against the motion. Always try to select the side you personally want to support
and have more material information to write on. It is preferable to make a choice
during the reading time.
An ideal debate must consist of 4 paragraphs, namely, Introduction/Salutations,
Problem, Solution and the concluding part. Let us discuss each of them in detail.
Introduction- This includes salutations and the topic (including FOR/AGAINST
the motion).
For Example:- Good morning everyone. Esteemed judges, honourable guests,
respected teachers and my fellow students. I, (name given in the question or else,
XYZ) feel honoured to have been given the opportunity to speak (FOR/AGAINST)
the topic- (name of the topic).
Body (Problem)- This is the main paragraph or the body of your answer.
Always begin with the meaning of the topic or the explanation of the topic in not
more than a line.
Then start quoting the issues. Now here, it is important you follow a sequence. It is
possible that you have too many points or very few points. When you have a lot of
varied points, it is better you choose a few best ones and write a line on each. In
case you have very few already, explain them in at least two lines each.
Make sure you are clear with your thoughts, only then you’ll be able to put them
into words unambiguously.
Solution- “For every problem, there is a solution.”
This paragraph needs to be short and crisp whereby; you are supposed to give a
rational and practical solution for all the above problems.
In case you are not able to figure one out, keep in mind a few general ones. It could
involve spreading awareness, campaigns, stringent laws and their strict
implementation, ed1. Understanding the subject: Do thorough research on the topic
to help you make an informed argument.
2. Structure: A discussion should be well-organized, with a concise introduction,
main body, and summary. The body of your essay should contain your points and
counterpoints, while the conclusion should restate your main points and clarify
your position. The introduction should describe the subject and provide
background information.
3. Give them Proof: Back your assertions with strong, applicable evidence, such as
statistics, professional opinions, and examples from the real world.
4. Logical Flow: Make sure your arguments and counterarguments follow one
another and make logical sense.
5. Objectivity: Make an effort to offer a fair and impartial analysis of the subject,
taking into account all available information.
6. Persuasion: Your goal is to persuade your audience to share your point of view,
so be careful to offer a compelling case that takes into consideration any rebuttals
or counterarguments.
7. Clarity: Use clear and concise language that is easy to understand and presents
your points effectively.
8. Referencing: Properly cite any sources you use in your debate to demonstrate
credibility and avoid plagiarism.
By following these guidelines, you will be able to write an effective and persuasive
debate for class 11.
Using a quote never hurts. It can be general ones like, on working together. Every
situation can be faced and solved if there is unity. So here are a few handy ones.
“Wherever there is unity, there is always victory. “
“Unity is strength.”
“United we stand, divided we fall.” And many more.
Conclusion- This part involves clarification of your statement and stance along
with thanking the audience for being such patient listeners. This paragraph needs to
be short and precise.
Here also, you could add some glitter to your art piece with some quotes like “The
word IMPOSSIBLE itself says, I M POSSIBLE.”
Important points to keep in mind include:
1. Understanding the subject: Do thorough research on the topic to help you make
an informed argument.
2. Structure: A discussion should be well-organized, with a concise introduction,
main body, and summary. The body of your essay should contain your points and
counterpoints, while the conclusion should restate your main points and clarify
your position. The introduction should describe the subject and provide
background information.
3. Give them Proof: Back your assertions with strong, applicable evidence, such as
statistics, professional opinions, and examples from the real world.
4. Logical Flow: Make sure your arguments and counterarguments follow one
another and make logical sense.
5. Objectivity: Make an effort to offer a fair and impartial analysis of the subject,
taking into account all available information.
6. Persuasion: Your goal is to persuade your audience to share your point of view,
so be careful to offer a compelling case that takes into consideration any rebuttals
or counterarguments.
7. Clarity: Use clear and concise language that is easy to understand and presents
your points effectively.
8. Referencing: Properly cite any sources you use in your debate to demonstrate
credibility and avoid plagiarism.
DEBATE WRITING DO’S AND DONT’S
DO’S
1. Before you begin writing, write down all the points (one/two words per point) at
the back of your answer sheet (rough sheet) so that you do not forget relevant
points while writing. This also helps you in maintaining a sequence, which is very
important.
2. Make sure you double check for grammatical accuracy and spellings. They carry
marks.
3. Leave adequate number of lines between paragraphs to make it look clean.
4. Underlining the main points is very important. But it is advised to do it after
finishing your exam. Use a pencil and scale for underlining.
5. Always have a few general quotes in handy. They help in presentation and shows
that you’re prepared
6. Presentation is very important.
7. Read a lot of debates to get an idea.
8. Have information about all the major environmental, political, social issues that
have taken place during the entire year. The Sample Question Paper 2018-19
released by CBSE consists of a question on “Social Media and it’s effects”. It can
be linked with a lot of problems we are facing today on personal and on global
level. Example- Spreading of fake information, Mob lynching, reduced physical
activities in children resulting in poor health, etc.
9. Practice previous year Question paper questions.
DONT’s:-
1. Never mention any of your personal details, i.e., name, school name or address.
2. Never write in one go. Make sure you follow the right format and make
paragraphs.
3. Don’t use slangs or short forms.
4. Don’t write wrong facts.
5. Try not to exceed the prescribed word limit of 120 – 150 words.
6. Do not invest too much time in just this question.
1. You are Mukul / Mahima of Alps Public School. Your school has organized
a debate on “Social Media and It’s Effects” and you will be participating in
your school. Prepare your views against or in favour of the motion. (120 –
150 words)
FOR THE MOTION:
“We are all now connected by the internet, like neurons in a giant brain”
Honourable judges, teachers and my worthy opponents thank you for giving me the
opportunity to join this debate on the topic, “Social Media and It’s Effects”. I am
Mukul/ Mahima and I would like to speak in favour of the motion.
How many people do not have a smile on their faces on finding an old friend on
Facebook? Well, social media has removed all the barriers and boundaries to
communication by bringing the globe on a single platform. While business
opportunities have widened, marketer’s reach has broadened. It keeps us updated
about everything going on in every nook and corner of the world on a real-time
basis.
From emergency alerts, announcements and declarations to knowing how our
friends are doing has all become so convenient. It provides freedom of speech and
thus, enables everyone to speak their mind. Not to forget the incalculable access it
provides to the extensive information.
With so much advancement and innovation, it would be an unimaginable world
without having social media in it. Someone has rightly put it into words by saying,
“Social media is addictive precisely because it gives us something that the real
world lacks: it gives us immediacy, direction and a value as an individual.”
Thank you.
AGAINST THE MOTION:
What a world it is, with everyone on their phones, all the time, faking their lives
and keeping a count of their likes?
Good Morning, ladies and gentlemen! I am Mukul/ Mahima and my topic for the
day is, “Social media and its effects”. I would like to speak against the motion.
It has now become doubtful to trust the saying that goes like “Technology was
developed to save time and make our lives easier”, because people have become
addicted and unproductive. It takes a lot of effort and discipline to stay away from
social media. Results have shown that it has had adverse effects on human minds
and their functioning. Outdoor activities among children have also reduced
significantly.
No doubt it provides access to useful information, but, it is hard to ignore the
quantum of fake news that spreads like wildfire and the extent of impact it has on
the society. In fact, fake whatsapp forwards was a clear pattern that was observed
behind the recent mob lynching or rather, “Death by social media”.
It is one of the reasons behind insecurities and depression among teenagers. It is
right that technology was introduced to save time, but we forgot to mention, “In
the right amount “A. So, remember, you leave the present moment every time you
check the phone.
Thank you for your cooperation and patient hearing.
