Debate Writing

Important Points

a) The first thing to do is to choose which side of the fence are you - whether you want to
write for, or against the motion. Always try to select the side you more information to
write on.

b) Divide your debate into THREE PARAGRAPHS

c) Introduction- includes salutations and the topic- including FOR/AGAINST the motion. The
introduction should describe the subject and provide background information.

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).

d) Body (Problem)
This is the main paragraph or the body of the debate. Always begin with the meaning of
the explanation of the topic in about two sentences. Then start quoting the issues.
When presenting your arguments either for or against the topic, it is important to follow
a sequence. You must choose the few best points and write a line on each. In case you
have very few points, explain them in at least two lines each. Clarity of thoughts is very
important because only then would you be able to put them into words unambiguously.
The body of your essay should contain your points and counterpoints

e) Conclusion- This part involves clarification and a summarizing of your statement and
stance along with thanking the audience for being such patient listeners. This paragraph
needs to be short and precise.

Points to be kept in mind

1) Understanding the subject: spend a few minutes thoroughly reading and understanding the
question. This will help present informed arguments.

2) Structure: The debate should be well-organized, with a concise introduction, main body, and
summary.
3) Give Proof: Back your assertions with strong and relevant 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: Present a convincing and compelling case to be able to persuade your audience
to accept your point of view. Your case must take into consideration any rebuttals or
counterarguments.
7) Use clear and concise language that is easy to understand and presents your points
effectively.
8) Properly cite any sources you use in your debate to demonstrate credibility and avoid
plagiarism.

Solved Example:

You are Priyanka, Alpine Public School, New Delhi. You are representing your school in an inter
school debate competition. The topic for the debate is “Social Media and It’s Effects.” In about
120-150 words present your views either For or Against the motion. (5)

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 Priyanka 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 Priyanka 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 spread like wildfire and the extent of impact
it has on the society. In fact, fake whatsapp forwards were a clear pattern that was observed
behind the recent mob lynchings or rather, “Death by social media”.

It is one of the main 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”

So, remember, you leave the present moment every time you check the phone.

Thank you for your cooperation and patient hearing.