Debate Outline
I am arguing the AFF : The US should decriminalize sex work
Guidelines for Outline
Outline must be in APA or MLA format (pick one and be consistent with it), double-spaced, Times New Roman & 12 pt. font. Outline must also contain a works cited page with at least 6 sources used for support. Sources used during the debate and in outline must come from credible sources (No Wikipedia, ask.com or yahoo answers). You should use at least 3 sources for each side (in part 1). In part 2, you may re-use the same sources mentioned in Part 1 but you will also find that you will need more than 3 sources to craft a strong debate.
Note: You must cite your sources in-text and reference them in your work cited/reference page. Failure to do so is immediate ground for a failing grade.
Your outline must follow the format below & include these elements (see sample debate outline on Canvas):
Resolution: Here, you will write down your resolution
Part 1: Research (75 pts)
Present THREE well-structured and compelling arguments for each side
3 Arguments for both AFF & NEG (total of 6 arguments)
All six (6) arguments must consist of (1) a clearly articulated claim (argument), (2) strong compelling evidence to back up the claim (you should use more than one evidence, and (3) a logically valid warrant (Toulmin Model)
Note: Out of all the arguments you will find in your research, you must pick three of the most compelling ones in this section.
Part 2: Affirmative or Negative Opening Speech Outline (100 pts)
Now that you’ve done extensive research on both sides (AFF and NEG), you will pick one of the two sides. For instance, let’s say that my resolution is “The United States should provide a universal basic income for its citizens.” After I present 3 arguments on each side in part 1 (above), in part 2, I will write an opening speech only one side (i.e., what you would say first when debating).
If you choose to argue on the AFF, you must follow these requirements for your speech outline:
Affirmative Opening Speech Outline
Your opening speech outline must include:
Statement that clearly sums up your position.
The stock issues analysis (Ch. 5)
Demonstrate the ILL (harm)- What is the problem in the status quo?
Demonstrate BLAME (Harm is inherent to the status quo)- How is the present system inherently responsible for the existence of the ills?
Demonstrate the CURE (Solvency)- How will the proposal remove the ills of the present system? Why is your solution the best option?
Address the COST (Disadvantage)- Must demonstrate that the disadvantages of the proposal are insignificant. Anticipate discussion of following types of disadvantages (Disadvantages initiated by NEG side)
All three arguments in support of your position (claims, evidence, warrant, etc.) (i.e., the ones you included in part 1- research)
A clear organization (i.e., you should not just state your three arguments, but should include transitions, introduction, conclusion, etc.)
Credible sources (minimum of 3 sources required- cited in-text)
Outlining this speech should be as detailed as possible (complete sentences only)
See Debate Outline Format for more details about this part (Canvas page files Debate resources)
Part 3: Cross Examination/Critical Thinking Questions (25 pts)
Based on your research and your opening speech, come up with a set of at least FOUR potential cross examination questions for the opposing side.
For instance, if I wrote the NEG opening speech (in part 2), I will come up with questions I could ask the AFF side, if we were debating.
Make sure your questions are not closed-ended and ones that can actually be answered.
Part 4: Works Cited or Reference (no points but required)
Works cited/Reference page with all references
Important Notes:
Remember there are other required parts to include in your final outline (e.g., part 1, part 3, works cited page). Refer to Debate Guidelines for these other sections.
You must cite your sources (in-text) when outlining your speech
Write your opening speech keeping in mind that these must be well-supported, logical, organized and your arguments must be seen as present! If we were actually debating in class, these opening speeches would be your best shot at convincing the audience why your position is stronger than your co-arguers.
When listing all three arguments in your speech, you will have to further develop some of these ideas (extend part 1) (i.e., don’t just copy and paste each argument listed in part 1, but make sure you provide additional evidence, demonstrate the ill, etc.)
Refer to the sample debate outlines posted on Canvas.
Remember that Part 2 will ask you to craft only one speech (either on the AFF or NEG). Refer to the guidelines for further instructions.
Part 2- Affirmative Opening Speech:
Introduction:
I. Attention getter:
II. State the resolution & AFF stance (approve resolution):
II. Preview the three arguments you’ll cover:
Body: Make sure that your 3 arguments address all of Stock Issues Analysis elements (required on the AFF side)
I. Argument 1:
A.
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2.
B.
1.
2.
Transition:
II. Argument 2:
A.
1.
2.
B.
1.
2.
Transition:
III. Argument 3:
A.
1.
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B.
1.
2.
Conclusion:
I. Signal end of speech: “In conclusion, …”
II. Restate resolution and stance:
III. Leave us with a BANG (powerful end note):
Part 2: Negative Opening Speech
Introduction:
I. Attention getter:
II. State the resolution & NEG stance (Disagree with the solution of the affirmative side):
II. Preview the three arguments you’ll cover:
Body: Make sure that in the body you address: 1. Responses to potential affirmative arguments; 2. Disadvantages & alternatives to affirmative’s solution(s)(required on the NEG side).
I. Argument 1:
A.
1.
2.
B.
1.
2.
Transition:
II. Argument 2:
A.
1.
2.
B.
1.
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Transition:
III. Argument 3:
A.
1.
2.
B.
1.
2.
Conclusion:
I. Signal end of speech: “In conclusion, …”
II. Restate resolution and stance:
III. Leave us with a BANG (powerful end note):
