Researching for a Researching for a DebateDebate

What is a debate?What is a debate?

A debate is, simply put, an argument. But rather than being a shouting match

between two sides, a debate has strict rules of conduct, utilizing sophisticated techniques.

You may be put in a position where you must argue the opposite of what you believe in. This is an important part of the art of debating.

Exploring the TopicExploring the Topic

Define the topic“layman’s” terms

Be aware of the scope of the debateWhat is included, what is not included

Get a clear understanding of your position (Pro vs. Con)

If in doubt, ask your learning manager for clarification

Coming up with Coming up with KeywordsKeywords

Parents Families Society Kids

Google Hint: ~Discipline will search for the word promotion and its common synonyms

define: Discipline will search for definitions and links

Children Punish

Discipline Spank Time-Out Guidance

BrainstormingBrainstorming

Brainstorm ALL possible arguments for & against the topic

Come up with as many arguments as possible to support your claim

Think about possible rebuttal arguments

Use a concept map and PMI

Importance of ResearchImportance of Research

Arguments will be based on evidence, facts and statistics.

Debater will become familiar with the topic, which allows for better flow of ideas and better preparation for rebuttal arguments.

Over-research.Use multiple, diverse sources.

Looking for InformationLooking for Information

Check the library for:BooksPeriodicalsGovernment documentsNewspapersVideos/DVDsHuman expertise

Looking for InformationLooking for Information

Check the Internet for:Online databasesCurrent information (online newspapers,

articles, studies. . .)Blogs, Wikis, and websites of concerned

organizations and societies.

Searching tipsSearching tips

Use “debate” language Versus, for against, argument

Be clear & specific Correct spelling is important Phrase searching

“social promotion” Leave out and, the, a , of . . . Use the * wildcard (e.g. child* for child,

children ; punish* for punish, punishing, punishment etc.

Going Beyond GoogleGoing Beyond Google

Holland College Library has licensed several databases that provide access to full text articles and current information: (accessible from home as well)

•ERIC (Education Resources Information Center)•Education Research Complete•Academic Search Elite•Professional Development Collection•SOCIndex•Daily Life Online•E-STAT (Government Statistics)

Evaluate your sourcesEvaluate your sources

Think critically about the information you find. Remember that your opponent will be as well.

Ask yourself some of these questions…

AccuracyAccuracy

Does the source seem correct? Do you need to cross check the information with a second source?

Is it peer-reviewed?

CurrencyCurrency

Is this source up to date? How old is too old?

ObjectivityObjectivity

Is this source opinion or fact? Is it unnecessarily biased?

PurposePurpose

What is the purpose of this source? Is it trying to inform, to sell, to promote?

AuthorityAuthority

Who is the author / publisher of this source?

Is she/he a well-known researcher in the field? Is the journal accepted as authoritative by researchers?

Get Organized to Get Organized to DebateDebate

Take lots of notesUse index cards or paper that can

easily be reorganized Keep the notes shortAdd personal comments Include facts and statisticsAcknowledge your sources for credibility

http://webster.commnet.edu/mla/notes.shtml

Get Organized to Get Organized to DebateDebate

Develop a thesis statement to guide your debate

Formulate a plan for an introduction, presentation of evidence and conclusion

Thesis StatementThesis StatementA thesis statement is the basic argument advanced by a speaker or writer who then attempts to prove it; the subject or major argument of a speech or composition

ww2.aps.edu/~apsedumain/CurriculumInstruction/glossary.htm

A thesis statement: states the topic / main idea of the debate shows the purpose of the debate shows the direction of your argument is captivating

Thesis examplesThesis examples

It is better to spank children.weak example

Studies have shown that spanking children is an effective means of behavioural modification and that if used properly, leads to a better disciplined and more socially productive adult.

stronger example

IntroductionIntroduction

Your point must have a basic, clear introduction.

You can open with a general thought or anecdote, but directly connect the intro to your thesis statement.

Start by being strong and confident.

EvidenceEvidence

Gather at least three pieces of evidence to support your claim. 

Have information on each “sub topic” prepared ahead of time. 

ConclusionConclusion

Conclude your debate by disproving the opponent’s point. 

Reaffirm your position by repeating the highlights of your evidence.

Restate your thesis.

RebuttalRebuttal

Do your research to be well-prepared for contra arguments.

Take notes of the points to rebut.Concentrate on the important points

and use logic to show why the other side is wrong.

Attack each argument that the opposition presents in turn.

Debate TipsDebate TipsSearch the web for debating videos.Have notes prepared, but do not let your

debate become an oral presentation of a written essay. 

Practice speaking aloud in front of a mirror or other people.

Understand both sides of the debate so that you are prepared to contradict the other side.

Be ready to let go of small points. Concentrate on debating the main topics and prepared evidence.

20102010

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