researching for a debate. what is a debate? a debate is, simply put, an argument. but rather than...
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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.
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