1. Understand the Motion
-
Carefully analyze the debate motion (resolution).
-
Identify the key terms and define them clearly (so the debate is focused).
-
Decide your stance (Affirmative/Pro vs. Negative/Con).
2. Craft Your Thesis Statement
-
A one-sentence summary of your position.
Example: “We strongly support this motion because it promotes equality and long-term progress.”
3. Set the Framework
-
Define how the debate should be judged (values, criteria, or principles).
-
Example: If the motion is about education policy, your framework might be accessibility, effectiveness, and fairness.
4. Build Your Contentions (Main Arguments)
-
Usually 2–3 strong points, each supported with:
-
Claim (your argument)
-
Reasoning (why it matters)
-
Evidence (examples, statistics, expert opinions, real cases)
-
Impact (what effect it has on society/people)
-
Example (for a motion about banning single-use plastics):
-
Contention 1 (Claim): Single-use plastics harm the environment.
-
Reasoning: They pollute oceans and damage ecosystems.
-
Evidence: UN reports show 8 million tons enter the ocean annually.
-
Impact: Marine life destruction and food chain contamination.
5. Anticipate Opponent’s Arguments (Rebuttals)
-
Predict what the other side will say and prepare counters.
-
Example: “Opponents may argue plastics are convenient, but sustainable alternatives are already widely available and increasingly affordable.”
6. Conclude Strongly
-
Restate your thesis.
-
Summarize main points.
-
Show why your side offers the best outcome compared to the other side.
🔹 Case Structure Template
-
Introduction
-
Greeting, define motion, present thesis.
-
-
Framework/Definition
-
Explain how the debate should be evaluated.
-
-
Contentions/Arguments
-
Present 2–3 arguments (with claim, reasoning, evidence, impact).
-
-
Refutation (if required in first speech)
-
Address likely counterarguments.
-
-
Conclusion
-
Restate stance, summarize points, end persuasively.
-
