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How to Write a Debate Speech

Last Updated: June 24, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Patrick Muñoz . Patrick is an internationally recognized Voice & Speech Coach, focusing on public speaking, vocal power, accent and dialects, accent reduction, voiceover, acting and speech therapy. He has worked with clients such as Penelope Cruz, Eva Longoria, and Roselyn Sanchez. He was voted LA's Favorite Voice and Dialect Coach by BACKSTAGE, is the voice and speech coach for Disney and Turner Classic Movies, and is a member of Voice and Speech Trainers Association. There are 9 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 1,525,376 times.

So, you've joined debate, and it's time to write a debate speech. There are some tried and true methods to writing an effective debate speech. If you understand them, and the components that make up a standard debate speech, you will increase your chances of success.

Sample Speeches

Preparing for the Debate Speech

• You may be asked to stand affirmative or negative. In LD (Lincoln-Douglas debate), the first affirmative speech will be at most 7 minutes long, and the first negative speech will be at most 6 minutes. [1] X Research source
• The speakers then present arguments against the earlier affirmative or negative speech that was just read. Speakers must listen carefully and be able to counter arguments. There are two segments involving cross-examination (CX), in which the debaters are allowed to ask questions and openly debate the topic. This is most often called cross-examination, or cx for short, and occurs after the first affirmative speech, and the first negative speech.
• The best thing you can do to better understand LD/PF/Policy debate is practice and research.

• Brainstorm the topic, and research it before you sit down to write. Write out a list of key components for both sides of the issue. If you are on a debate team, do this together. Each member could discuss the key component list, in order to figure out which issues you want to cover in each speech.
• Spend some time at the library or on the Internet using credible sources to research the key reasons that seem strongest. Use books, scholarly journals, credible newspapers, and the like. Be very cautious about unverified information bandied about on the Internet.
• You will also want prepare to deal with the strongest arguments your opponent(s) might make. Ignoring the other side’s best arguments can weaken your rhetorical appeal.

• A basic debate outline should contain six parts: An attention-getter, your stated stance (aff or neg)/ restatement of the resolution, your definitions, your value, criterion, and contentions.
• You can break each of those six parts into subcategories. It’s often a good idea to write the contentions last, focusing on the value and criterion to hold it up first.

Writing the Debate Speech

• You should address the jury or audience with formal salutations. For example, you could say something like, “Good morning, ladies and gentlemen.” Debates are very formal in tone.
• Making a good first impression with the judges is very important. This leads judges to assume the debater is persuasive. One technique to write a strong introduction is to contextualize the topic, especially in relation to real world events. [6] X Trustworthy Source American Bar Association Leading professional organization of lawyers and law students Go to source
• Introductions can also focus on prominent examples, quotations, or on a personal anecdote that can help establish a rapport with the audience and judges. Be careful using humor; it involves risks and can lead to awkward silences if not done right. Find a relevant specific that illustrates the underlying point.

• Don’t muddle your position. It needs to be extremely clear whether you affirm or negate the resolution, so don’t hem and haw and contradict yourself. The audience also should not have to wait until the end to find out. Make your stance very clear, and do it early on
• For example, you could say, “my partner and I firmly negate (or affirm) the resolution which states that unilateral military force by the United States is justified to prevent nuclear proliferation.” [7] X Research source

• A good rule of thumb is to back up your position with 3-4 strong points of supporting argumentation. You definitely need to have more than 1 or 2 key points to back up the stance you have taken.
• The body of the speech – the key points and their development – should be, by far, the longest part of the debate speech (perhaps 3 ½ minutes to 30 seconds for an opening and for a conclusion, depending on the rules of the debate you are doing).

• Focus on the causes of the problem, the effects of the problem, expert opinion, examples, statistics, and present a solution. Try to use visual images, not just generic terms – show don’t tell, and illustrate a point with details.
• Appeal to the motives and emotions of the listener with a light touch. Appeal to their sense of fair play, desire to save, to be helpful, to care about community, etc. Ground examples in how people are affected.
• Try using rhetorical questions, which make your opponents consider the validity of their point; irony, which undermines their point and makes you seem more mature and intelligent; simile, which gives them something to relate to; humor, which gets the audience on your side when done well; and repetition, which reinforces your point.

• Aristotle believed that speakers were more persuasive if they combined elements of logos (persuasion by reasoning) with pathos (having an element of emotional appeal) and ethos (an appeal based on the character of the speaker) - for example, that they seem intelligent or of good will.
• There are two ways to use logic – inductive (which makes the case with measurable evidence like statistics or a specific anecdote or example) and deductive (which makes the case by outlining a general principle that is related to the specific topic to infer a conclusion from it - as in, I oppose all wars except those involving imminent self defense; thus, I must oppose this one because it's a war that was not in imminent self defense, and here's why). Or the reverse.
• You should use pathos sparingly. Emotional appeal on its own can be dangerous. Logos - the appeal to reason - should be at the core. However, logical appeal without any pathos at all can render a speech dry and dull. Consider what you are trying to make your audience feel. Explaining how a topic affects real people is one way to use pathos well.

Concluding the Debate Speech

• One strong way to conclude a debate speech is to bookend the conclusion with the opening, by referring back to the introduction and tying the conclusion into the same theme.
• Quotations can be a good way to end a speech. You can also end with a brief summation of the key arguments of the speech to ensure they remain fresh in judges’ minds.

• Use a clear , loud voice, and be careful to watch pacing. You don’t want to speak too loud or too slowly. Remember that confidence goes a long way toward persuasion.

Expert Q&A

Reader Videos

• Never add new points in your speech because you still have time, as you might not present it in the best way. When you are nervous, you might even say an argument in favor of the other side and you don't want that. Thanks Helpful 32 Not Helpful 2
• Never degrade your topic. Thanks Helpful 33 Not Helpful 3
• Don't use all your points in your debate- in an actual debate, it is sometimes useful to have other information to cite if the argument starts going their way Thanks Helpful 30 Not Helpful 3

Tips from our Readers

• You can make a sample opening and closing speech beforehand so you can focus more time on developing your arguments during the actual debate.
• Make sure to include rebuttals in your speech, as they are just as important as your main arguments.
• Practice as much as possible — it will make you more confident and help you maintain eye contact.
• Imagine you're just practicing with a friend rather than performing in front of an audience.
• Take deep breaths before starting to ease nerves.

• Remember, just because you can write a debate speech, it doesn't mean you can say a debate speech effectively. Practice! Thanks Helpful 22 Not Helpful 5

You Might Also Like

• ↑ http://www.learndebating.com/english/DEBATING.pdf
• ↑ https://guides.lib.uw.edu/research/faq/reliable
• ↑ Patrick Muñoz. Voice & Speech Coach. Expert Interview. 12 November 2019.
• ↑ https://www.hamilton.edu/academics/centers/oralcommunication/guides/how-to-outline-a-speech
• ↑ https://www.americanbar.org/groups/litigation/resources/newsletters/trial-evidence/five-tips-engaging-opening-statements/
• ↑ http://www.oxfordsd.org/Page/5582
• ↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/argument/
• ↑ https://www.comm.pitt.edu/persuasive-speaking
• ↑ https://www.comm.pitt.edu/speech-anxiety

About This Article

To write a debate speech, start by researching the topic thoroughly with credible and scholarly sources, and make an outline of your argument including an introduction, thesis argument, key points, and conclusion. Write the thesis argument and develop 3-4 strong points of argumentation. Be sure to clearly state your stance, and utilize expert opinions, statistics, and examples to support your opinion. To finish the speech, write an interesting introduction that incorporates your thesis and a brief conclusion that summarizes your main points. If you want to learn more, such as how to make your debate speech persuasive, keep reading the article! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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How to Write a Winning Debate Speech

What is a Debate?

A classroom debate involves students delivering persuasive speeches to present and support their opinions on a given subject. This activity helps develop critical thinking and communication skills, enabling students to gain a more comprehensive grasp of various topics.

Debate speeches are written according to a set of rules so a moderator can assess their effectiveness and allow others to question or challenge their statements within a formal debate.

A classroom debate is not an unruly fight or pointless argument but a structured formal conversation on a chosen topic in which two teams argue for or against it to convince the neutral moderator that they hold the stronger position.

Debating is a form of persuasive communication, and while we will be sticking to the fundamentals of how to write a debating speech, we also have a great guide to persuasive essay writing that elaborates on specific persuasive techniques.

Complete Teaching Unit on Class Debating

This unit will guide your students to write excellent DEBATE SPEECHES and craft well-researched, constructed ARGU MENTS ready for critique from their classmates.

Furthermore, this EDITABLE UNIT will provide the TOOLS and STRATEGIES for running highly engaging CLASSROOM DEBATES.

How To Run A Classroom Debate

Before jumping in headfirst to write your debating speech, ensure you understand how a debate is run to maximise your strategy and impact when it counts.

Debates occur in many different contexts, such as public meetings, election campaigns, legislative assemblies, and as entertainment on television shows. These contexts determine the specific structure the debate will follow.

This guide provides a basic step-by-step debate structure we can comfortably run with students in a classroom. By familiarizing students with this structure, they will effortlessly transition to other debate frameworks.

Running a classroom debate can be an engaging and educational activity that helps students develop critical thinking, communication, and research skills. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to organize and facilitate a successful classroom debate:

1. Choose a Topic For Your Debate.

Also called a resolution or a motion , the topic is sometimes chosen to debate. This is usually the case in a school activity to practice debating skills. 

The resolution or motion is usually centered around a true or false statement or a proposal to change the current situation. Often, the motion starts, ”This House believes that….”

Select a topic relevant to your curriculum and the students’ interests. Ensure that it is debatable and has multiple perspectives. Further down this article, you can find a list of popular classroom debating topics.

2. Form Two Debating Teams

Two teams of three speakers each are formed. These are referred to as ‘ The House for the Motion ’ or the ‘ Affirmative ’ team and ‘The House Against the Motion ’ or the ‘ Negative ’ team.

Preparation is an essential aspect of debating. The speech and debate team members will need time to research their arguments, collaborate, and organize themselves and their respective roles in the upcoming debate.

They’ll also need time to write and rehearse their speeches. The better prepared and coordinated they are as a team, the greater their chances of success in the debate.

3. Assign Roles to Students.

Each team member should have a specific role, such as speaker, researcher , or rebuttal specialist . This encourages teamwork and ensures that each student is actively involved.

4. Research and Preparation:

• Allocate time for teams to research and prepare their arguments. Encourage students to use multiple sources, including books, articles, and reputable websites. Make sure you read our complete guide to powerful student research strategies.

5. Set Debate Format:

• Define the debate format, including the structure of each round. Common formats include opening statements, cross-examination, rebuttals, and closing statements.

6. Establish Rules:

• Set ground rules for the debate, such as time limits for each speaker, etiquette, guidelines for respectful communication, and consequences for rule violations.

7. Conduct a Practice Debate:

• Before the actual debate, conduct a practice round. This helps students become familiar with the format and allows you to provide feedback on their arguments and presentation skills.
• On the day of the debate, set up the classroom to accommodate the format. Ensure that each round has a clear structure, and designate a timekeeper to keep the debate on schedule.

9. Facilitate Q&A Sessions:

• After each team presents their arguments, allow time for questions and cross-examination. This encourages critical thinking and engagement among the students.

10. Evaluate and Debrief:

• After the debate, provide constructive feedback to each team. Discuss the strengths and weaknesses of their arguments, presentation skills, and teamwork. Also, please encourage students to reflect on what they learned from the experience.
• Have a class discussion about the debate, exploring different perspectives and opinions. This can deepen students’ understanding of the topic and enhance their critical thinking skills.

Consider integrating the debate topic into future lessons or assignments. This reinforces the learning experience and allows students to delve deeper into the subject matter.

Remember to create a supportive and respectful environment throughout the debate, emphasizing the importance of listening to opposing views and engaging in constructive dialogue.

Each speaker takes a turn making their speech, alternating between the House for the Motion, who goes first, and the House Against the Motion. Each speaker speaks for a pre-agreed amount of time.

Ensure your debate is held in front of an audience (in this case, the class), and occasionally, the audience is given time to ask questions after all the speeches have been made.

Finally, the debate is judged either by moderators or by an audience vote. 

Download our Debate Organizer

Stay fousssed with this handy template to keep all your ideas organized.

How To Write A Debate

How to start a debate speech.

In highly competitive speech and debate tournaments, students are only provided the topic on the day, and limited time is allowed for preparation, but this is not recommended for beginners.

Regardless of the stakes of your classroom debate, the speechwriting process always begins with research. Thorough research will provide students with both the arguments and the supporting evidence for their position on a topic and generate forward-thinking about what their opponents might use against them.

Writing Your Introduction

The purpose of the introduction in a debate speech is to achieve several things:

• Grab the attention of the audience,
• Introduce the topic
• Provide a thesis statement
• Preview some of the main arguments.

Grab The Attention Of Your Audience With Strong Hooks

Securing the audience’s attention is crucial, and failure to do this will have a strong, negative impact on how the team’s efforts will be scored as a whole. Let’s explore three proven strategies to hook your audience and align their thinking to yours.

Introduce Your Topic With Efficiency and Effectiveness

Once the audience’s attention has been firmly grasped, it’s time to introduce the topic or the motion. This should be done straightforwardly and transparently to ensure the audience understands the topic of the debate and the position you are approaching it from.

For example, if the topic of the debate was school uniforms, the topic may be introduced with:

Provide Your Thesis Statement

A thesis statement is a concise declaration summarizing the points and arguments of your debating speech.

• It presents a clear stance on a topic and guides the reader on what to expect in the content.
• A good thesis statement is debatable and allows for opposing viewpoints and discussion.
• It serves as a roadmap for the writer, ensuring coherence and focus in the piece.
• It helps the audience understand the purpose and direction of the work from the beginning.

The thesis statement should express the student’s or the team’s position on the motion. Clearly explaining the speaker’s side of the debate. An example can be seen here.

Provide A Preview Of Your Arguments

The final part of the introduction section of a debate speech involves previewing the main points of the speech for the audience.

There is no need to go into detail with each argument here; that’s what the body of the speech is for. It is enough to provide a general thesis statement for each argument or ‘claims’ – (more on this to follow).

Previewing the arguments in a speech is especially important as the audience and judges only get one listen to a speech – unlike a text, which can be reread as frequently as the reader likes.

debate introduction examples for students

Attention grabbers task.

After explaining the different types of attention grabbers and the format for the rest of the introduction to your students, challenge them to write an example of each type of opening for a specific debate topic. 

When they’ve finished writing these speech openings, discuss with the students which one best fits their chosen topic. Then, they can continue by completing the rest of the introduction for their speech using the format described above.

You might like to try a simple topic like “Homework should be banned.” you can choose from our collection further in this article.

Writing T he Body of the Speech

The body paragraphs are the real meat of the speech. They contain the in-depth arguments that make up the substance of the debate, and How well these arguments are made will determine how the judges will assess each speaker’s performance, so it’s essential to get the structure of these arguments just right.

Let’s take a look at how to do that.

How to structure an Argument

With the introduction out of the way, it’s time for the student to get down to the nitty-gritty of the debate – that is, making compelling arguments to support their case.

There are three main aspects to an argument in a debate speech. They are:

• The Warrant

Following this structure carefully enables our students to build coherent and robust arguments. Ttake a look at these elements in action in the example below.

Brainstorming Arguments

Present your students with a topic and, as a class, brainstorm some arguments for and against the motion.

Then, ask students to choose one argument and, using the Claim-Warrant-Impact format, take a few moments to write down a well-structured argument that’s up to debate standard.

Students can then present their arguments to the class. 

Or, you could also divide the class along pro/con lines and host a mini-debate!

Concluding a Debate Speech

The conclusion of a speech or a debate is the final chance for the speaker to convey their message to the audience. In a formal debate that has a set time limit, the conclusion is crucial as it demonstrates the speaker’s ability to cover all their material within the given time frame.

Avoid introducing new information and focus on reinforcing the strength of your position for a compelling and memorable conclusion.

A good conclusion should refer back to the introduction and restate the main position of the speaker, followed by a summary of the key arguments presented. Finally, the speaker should end the speech with a powerful image that will leave a lasting impression on the audience and judges.

Examples of strong debate Conclusions

The Burden of the Rejoinder

In formal debates, the burden of the rejoinder means that any time an opponent makes a point for their side, it’s incumbent upon the student/team to address that point directly.

Failing to do so will automatically be seen as accepting the truth of the point made by the opponent.

For example, if the opposing side argues that all grass is pink, despite how ridiculous that statement is, failing to refute that point directly means that, for the debate, all grass is pink.

Our students must understand the burden of the rejoinder and ensure that any points the opposing team makes are fully addressed during the debate.

The Devils Advocate

When preparing to write their speech, students should spend a significant proportion of their team collaborating as a team. 

One good way to practice the burden of the rejoinder concept is to use the concept of Devil’s Advocate, whereby one team member acts as a member of the opposing team, posing arguments from the other side for the speaker to counter, sharpening up their refutation skills in the process.

20 Great Debating Topics for Students

• Should cell phones be allowed in schools?
• Is climate change primarily caused by human activities?
• Should the voting age be lowered to 16?
• Is social media more harmful than beneficial to society?
• Should genetically modified organisms (GMOs) be embraced or rejected?
• Is the death penalty an effective crime deterrent?
• Should schools implement mandatory drug testing for students?
• Is animal testing necessary for scientific and medical advancements?
• Should school uniforms be mandatory?
• Is censorship justified in certain circumstances?
• Should the use of performance-enhancing drugs be allowed in sports?
• Is homeschooling more beneficial than traditional schooling?
• Should the use of plastic bags be banned?
• Is nuclear energy a viable solution to the world’s energy needs?
• Should the government regulate the fast food industry?
• Is social inequality a result of systemic factors or individual choices?
• Should the consumption of meat be reduced for environmental reasons?
• Is online learning more effective than traditional classroom learning?
• Should the use of drones in warfare be banned?
• Is the legalization of marijuana beneficial for society?

These topics cover a range of subjects and offer students the opportunity to engage in thought-provoking debates on relevant and impactful issues.

OTHER GREAT ARTICLES RELATED TO DEBATING

The Ultimate Guide to Opinion Writing for Students and Teachers

Top 5 Persuasive Writing Techniques for Students

5 Top Persuasive Writing Lesson Plans for Students and Teachers

23 Persuasive writing Topics for High School students

How to Write Perfect Persuasive Essays in 5 Simple Steps

Debating strategies for students.

Research and preparation are essential to ensure good performance in a debate. Students should spend as much time as possible drafting and redrafting their speeches to maximize their chances of winning. However, a debate is a dynamic activity, and victory cannot be assured by pre-writing alone.

Students must understand that the key to securing victory lies in also being able to think, write (often in the form of notes), and respond instantly amid the turmoil of the verbal battle. To do this, students must understand the following keys to victory.

When we think of winning a debate, we often think of blinding the enemy with the brilliance of our verbal eloquence. We think of impressing the audience and the judges alike with our outstanding oratory.

What we don’t often picture when we imagine what a debate winner looks like is a quiet figure sitting and listening intently. But being a good listener is one of our students’ most critical debating skills.

If students don’t listen to the other side, whether by researching opposing arguments or during the thrust of the actual debate, they won’t know the arguments the other side is making. Without this knowledge, they cannot effectively refute the opposition’s claims.

Read the Audience

In terms of the writing that happens before the debate takes place, this means knowing your audience. 

Students should learn that how they present their arguments may change according to the demographics of the audience and/or judges to whom they will be making their speech. 

An audience of retired school teachers and an audience of teen students may have very different responses to the same arguments.

This applies during the actual debate itself too. If the student making their speech reads resistance in the faces of the listeners, they should be prepared to adapt their approach accordingly in mid-speech.

Practice, Practice, Practice

The student must practice their speech before the debate. There’s no need to learn it entirely by heart. There isn’t usually an expectation to memorize a speech entirely, and doing so can lead to the speaker losing some of their spontaneity and power in their delivery. At the same time, students shouldn’t spend the whole speech bent over a sheet of paper reading word by word.

Ideally, students should familiarize themselves with the content and be prepared to deliver their speech using flashcards as prompts when necessary.

Another important element for students to focus on when practising their speech is making their body language, facial expressions, and hand gestures coherent with the verbal content of their speech. One excellent way to achieve this is for the student to practice delivering their speech in a mirror.

And Finally…

Debating is a lot of fun to teach and partake in, but it also offers students a valuable opportunity to pick up some powerful life skills.

It helps students develop a knack for distinguishing fact from opinion and an ability to assess whether a source is credible or not. It also helps to encourage them to think about the other side of the argument. 

Debating helps our students understand others, even when disagreeing with them. An important skill in these challenging times, without a doubt.

Debating Teaching Strategies

Clearly Define Debate Roles and Structure when running speech and debate events: Clearly define the roles of speakers, timekeepers, moderators, and audience members. Establish a structured format with specific time limits for speeches, rebuttals, and audience participation. This ensures a well-organized and engaging debate.

• Provide Topic Selection and Preparation Time: Offer students a range of debate topics, allowing them to select a subject they are passionate about. Allocate ample time for research and preparation, encouraging students to gather evidence, develop strong arguments, and anticipate counterarguments.
• Incorporate Scaffolded Debating Skills Practice: Before the actual debate, engage students in scaffolded activities that build their debating skills. This can include small group discussions, mock debates, or persuasive writing exercises. Provide feedback and guidance to help students refine their arguments and delivery.
• Encourage Active Listening and Note-taking during speech and debate competitions: Emphasize the importance of active listening during the debate. Encourage students to take notes on key points, supporting evidence, and persuasive techniques used by speakers. This cultivates critical thinking skills and prepares them for thoughtful responses during rebuttals.
• Facilitate Post-Debate Reflection and Discussion: After the debate, facilitate a reflection session where students can share their thoughts, lessons learned, and insights gained. Encourage them to analyze the strengths and weaknesses of their arguments and engage in constructive dialogue. This promotes metacognitive skills and encourages continuous improvement.

By following these tips, teachers can create a vibrant and educational debate experience for their students. Through structured preparation, active engagement, and reflective discussions, students develop valuable literacy and critical thinking skills that extend beyond the boundaries of the debate itself.

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A Comprehensive Guide to Preparing and Delivering A Debate Speech

Published on: Mar 9, 2022

Last updated on: Jul 23, 2024

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Whether you are a student, a policymaker, or a business leader, the ability to debate effectively can be a game-changer. 

Debate speeches are important for anyone wanting to persuade others. However, writing and delivering a debate speech isn’t easy, especially if you are new to the process. 

This guide explains simple steps on how to write and deliver an excellent debate speech. It covers everything from preparing your arguments to delivering your speech with confidence and conviction.

So dive in to learn!   

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What is a Debate Speech?

A debate speech is a structured argument on a specific topic that is presented in a formal setting.  

The main purpose of debate speech is to:  

• Express your point of view persuasively and effectively
• Convince the opposition that you are right.
• Change the people's point of view on a particular topic.

In a debate speech, the speaker presents their argument in a clear, concise, and convincing manner. Debate speeches have a set time limit, and the speaker must use their time effectively to make their case and address counterarguments. 

Preparing for a Debate Speech 

You can only win your debate if you have spent time preparing it well. Follow the steps below to be prepared for your next debate speech.

Understanding the Debate Format 

It's essential to understand the format of the debate in which you want to participate. Different debate formats have specific rules and guidelines that you need to follow to succeed. 

Some popular types of debates include parliamentary, Lincoln-Douglas, and policy debates.

• Parliamentary debate is a format where two teams of two or three members argue for or against a motion. It is presided over by a moderator. In this format, debaters have limited preparation time to gather information and construct their arguments.
• Lincoln-Douglas debate is a one-on-one debate where debaters argue for their positions on a specific topic. This format usually involves a value system and a criterion that the debaters must uphold and defend.
• Policy debate is a format where two teams of two members argue for or against a specific policy proposal. This format requires in-depth research and analysis of the policy and its potential implications.

Selecting a Position

Choose a topic that you are passionate about and that you feel strongly about. Once you have chosen a topic, narrow it down to a specific aspect that you can argue for or against. 

The clearer your position, the easier it will be to research and prepare your arguments.

Need some good debate topic ideas to get started? Check out our list of interesting and engaging debate topics to help you out!

Researching and Gathering Information

Once you have selected your topic, research it thoroughly. Gather as much information as you can from credible sources such as academic journals, news articles, and government reports. 

Take detailed notes, and make sure to record the sources you use so that you can reference them later.

Understanding Both Sides of the Argument 

To write a persuasive debate speech, it is important to understand both sides of the argument. 

Consider the arguments that your opponents might make and anticipate counterarguments. This will help you to strengthen your own arguments and address potential weaknesses in your position.

Organizing Your Arguments 

Once you have gathered all of the information you need, organize your arguments in a clear and logical way. 

Start by outlining the main points you want to make and then add supporting evidence to each point. Make sure that your arguments flow logically and build on each other.

Practicing Your Delivery

Finally, practice your delivery. Read your speech out loud several times to get a feel for how it flows. 

Time yourself to make sure that you can fit all of your arguments into the allotted time. Consider practicing in front of a friend or family member to get feedback on your delivery.

Paper due? Why Suffer? That's our job

How to Present a Debate Speech?

This type of speech requires some essential components. Here are the major components you need to present an effective debate speech. 

1. Catchy Introduction

The first important step is starting the debate with a compelling introduction. You can begin with a question, a quote, or a statistic related to the topic.

Moreover, your introduction should state your stance on the topic and provides a preview of your arguments. 

2. State the Problem & Define Key Terms

Define key terms in your speech that are important to your argument. This helps to ensure that your audience understands the meaning of the words you use.

3. Present Your Arguments

Present your arguments in a clear and logical order. Start with your strongest argument and provide evidence to support it. Then, move on to the weaker arguments and provide evidence for each one.

A good argument often follows the PEE structure, which means "Point, Evidence, Explanation (PEE)".

• Point or Reason: This is where you state your main idea or argument, providing a concise and clear statement of your position. The point should be specific, focused, and relevant to the topic at hand. It serves as the foundation for your argument
• Evidence: Here, you provide supporting evidence to bolster your argument. This can take the form of examples, statistics, or any other relevant information that helps illustrate your point. 
• Explanation: In this part, you elaborate on how the evidence you provided supports your point. This is where you explain the relationship between your point and the evidence, highlighting its significance

4. Rebuttals 

Address counterarguments by acknowledging the opposing viewpoints and refuting them with evidence. This is called a rebuttal. 

It shows that you have considered both sides of the argument and strengthens your own position. Addressing counterarguments through rebuttals is a vital aspect of constructing a well-rounded and persuasive argument. 

Rebuttals involve presenting evidence that challenges the opposing counter-arguments and weakens their validity. Additionally, it is crucial to explain the flaws or fallacies in the opposing arguments during the process of rebuttal.

5. Conclusion

End your speech with a strong conclusion that summarizes your arguments and restates your stance on the topic. You can also end with a call to action, encouraging your audience to take action based on your argument.

Tips for Presenting a Debate Speech Effectively

The above steps will help you prepare and present an acceptable speech, but you can improve it even more with the tips below.

• Use Clear and Concise Language

Speak clearly and use language that is easy to understand. Avoid using jargon or complex words that might confuse your audience.

• Emphasize Key Points

Highlight the key points of your argument by using vocal inflection and tone. Emphasize important words or phrases to help your audience remember your key arguments.

• Use Body Language and Gestures

Body language and gestures can help to reinforce your arguments and make your speech more engaging. Use hand gestures to emphasize key points, and vary your posture and movement to keep your audience interested.

• Maintain Eye Contact

Maintain eye contact with your audience throughout your speech. This will help to establish a connection with them and make them feel more engaged with your argument.

• Use Vocal Variety and Tone

Vary your vocal tone and pace to add interest and emphasis to your speech. Use pauses and changes in pace to emphasize important points, and vary your volume to make your arguments more impactful.

• Use the Debate Speech Checklist

Here is a checklist that can help you evaluate your debate.

• Does your speech cover your opinion about the topic?
• Does your speech start with a catchy hook?
• Does your speech cover all the main points?
• Does your speech provide sufficient counterarguments?
• Does your speech contain enough evidence?
• Does your speech provide a call to action to the conclusion?

Debate Speech Examples 

Here are some examples to help you prepare and present your debate speech better. 

Debate Speech Structure

Debate Speech Template

Debate Speech Sample

Writing and delivering a successful debate speech requires careful planning, research, and effective communication skills. 

By following the steps and tips provided above, you can persuade your audience effectively and make a lasting impact. Remember to practice, rehearse, and be confident in your abilities. 

Still need expert help in writing your speech? We've got you covered! 

CollegeEssay.org is here to assist you. We are an expert speech writing service with a team of experienced professionals. 

Our AI essay writing tools can help you at every step of the speech-writing process, from selecting a topic to gathering evidence.

We provide customized, high-quality writing services at an affordable price. You can also take advantage from our AI essay writer tool to improve your writing skills.

So why wait? Contact our professional essay writing service and impress your audience with an amazing speech!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the 4 types of debate.

The four main types of debate are: 

• Parliamentary Debate 
• Lincoln-Douglas Debate 
• Cross-Examination Debate 
• Academic Debate 

What are the 2 sides of a debate called?

The opposition and proposition are the two sides of a debate. 

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Struggling to compose an impactful debate speech that captivates your audience and secures a win? 

You're not alone. Crafting a persuasive and well-structured debate speech is a challenge faced by numerous students. The process of articulating your thoughts, organizing arguments can be challenging.

However, fear not! This blog post is your comprehensive guide, presenting a step-by-step approach to empower you in constructing a debate speech. We’ve included examples and tips to make sure your speech captures attention and ensures a compelling and victorious performance.

So, keep reading.

• 1. What Is A Debate Speech?
• 2. How To Prepare For Debate Speech?
• 3. Debate Speech Examples for Students
• 4. Tips for an Effective Debate Speech
• 5. Debate Speech Topics

What Is A Debate Speech?

A debate speech is a formal presentation where you argue for or against a specific topic. 

It involves structured arguments presented in different sections, aiming to persuade the audience with facts and convincing points. It's a way of discussing and trying to show why your side is the right one on a particular subject.

Key Elements of A Debate Speech

A debate typically includes several essential elements to effectively communicate your position and persuade the audience. These elements form the building blocks of a strong debate speech:

• Opening Statements: These kick off the debate, presenting the main arguments for your side or against the motion. It sets the tone for the discussion.
• Rebuttals: In this stage, you respond to the arguments made by the opposing side, highlighting weaknesses or presenting counterpoints.
• Summary: Towards the end of the debate, a summary is provided to reinforce your main arguments and explain why your perspective is stronger. This section aims to leave a lasting impression on the audience.
• Use of Evidence: Supporting your arguments with evidence, facts, and examples strengthens your position and makes your speech more convincing.
• Logical Reasoning: Presenting arguments in a clear, logical sequence enhances the coherence and persuasiveness of your speech.
• Rhetorical Appeal: Adding appeals like ethos, pathos and logos to your speech can engage the audience, making your points more relatable and impactful.

How To Prepare For Debate Speech?

Creating a compelling debate speech requires a methodical approach that ensures a clear, convincing, and organized presentation. Let's delve into the detailed steps for an effective preparation:

Choosing a Position

Start by selecting a clear stance or position regarding the debate topic. Decide whether you are arguing for or against the motion. Understanding and committing to your position forms the foundation of your speech.

Conducting Thorough Research

Gathering information for your debate speech is really important. Look at different sources like books, reliable websites, and experts' ideas. 

Find facts, numbers, and real stories that support what you want to say. It's key to use strong and trusted information that backs up your side of the argument. 

When you collect different types of information, it makes your speech stronger and more convincing. This way, you'll be well-prepared to explain your ideas during the debate.

Structure The Key Points

After research and collecting points, organize your main arguments in a clear and logical manner to effectively convey your position in the debate. Set sufficient time to each key point to ensure they're adequately developed and presented. 

You can do this by following a debate format. Here is a standard debate speech format for a 20-15 minutes long debate:

How to Start a Debate Speech

Crafting a compelling opening for your speech involves capturing the audience's attention while introducing key points of discussion. 

You can achieve this by using attention-grabbing techniques such as sharing an eye-opening fact, a powerful quote, or a personal anecdote related to the topic. 

Additionally, it's beneficial to briefly outline the key areas of discussion that you'll cover in your speech. By providing a sneak peek of the main points, you offer the audience a roadmap of what's to come. 

This not only piques the audience's interest but also helps them anticipate and follow the structure of your speech.

Structure Your Arguments

Structuring arguments in the debate speech means organizing your ideas in a way that makes sense to others. 

A well-structured argument often uses the P-E-E format, which stands for Point, Evidence, Explanation (P-E-E):

• Point or Reason: Begin by stating your main argument or reason. This is the central idea you want to convey in support of your position.
• Evidence: Provide evidence, facts, or examples that support your point. This evidence should be reliable and back up what you're saying.
• Explanation: Explain how your evidence supports your point. Make it clear to your audience why this evidence is important and how it links to your argument.

This structure helps make your arguments more persuasive and clear. It enables you to present your points effectively, support them with evidence, and explain why that evidence matters in the context of your argument.

Address Counterarguments (Rebuttals)

Addressing counterarguments involves anticipating the opposing viewpoints and crafting responses, known as rebuttals , within your speech. A rebuttal is a persuasive counter-argument that challenges or opposes the points raised by the other side.

By thinking ahead and having strong responses, you showcase a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter. 

This approach makes your argument stronger and shows your skill in defending your position, boosting your speech's credibility.

How to End a Debate Speech

Concluding your debate speech effectively is as important as starting it strong. Here are two impactful ways to conclude your speech:

• Summarize Key Points with a Call to Action Example: "In conclusion, the evidence overwhelmingly supports the idea that [your stance on the topic]. As we leave here today, let's not merely acknowledge the importance of [debate topic] but commit to [call to action], ensuring a brighter future for all."
• End with a Powerful Quote or Statement Example: "As [relevant figure] once wisely said, '[insert impactful quote].' Let these words guide us in our understanding of [debate topic]. Together, we can [highlight the desired outcome or change]."

Review And Practice

The last step is to review and practice a lot. Read through your speech to make sure it all makes sense and fits the time limit. 

Practice how you talk, how fast or slow, and how you use your body while speaking. Also, be ready to answer questions or handle different arguments. 

Do a few final practice rounds to feel more confident and comfortable. This way, you'll be well-prepared and ready to deliver a strong debate speech.

Debate Speech Examples for Students

For students, understanding how to structure and present a debate speech is crucial. Here are some debate speech samples to help you grasp the basics of debating:

First Speaker Debate Speech Example

2nd Speaker Debate Speech Example

3rd Speaker Debate Speech Example

Short Example Of Debate Speech

Debate Speech Structure

Examples can serve as a great starting point. Check out more expertly crafted debate examples for inspiration!

Tips for an Effective Debate Speech

Crafting a persuasive and impactful debate speech requires careful consideration and strategic planning. Here are key tips to enhance the effectiveness of your presentation:

• Tailor language to match the audience's demographics and interests.
• Strengthen arguments with credible sources and diverse perspectives.
• Organize with a clear introduction, well-developed body, and strong conclusion for a logical flow.
• Capture attention with a compelling quote, question, or anecdote.
• Support arguments with relevant statistics, examples, and real-world scenarios.
• Anticipate opposing viewpoints and incorporate strong rebuttals.
• Clearly articulate and repeat key ideas to reinforce your stance.
• Maintain a dynamic and engaging delivery by varying tone and pace.
• Pay attention to body language, eye contact, and gestures.
• Allocate time wisely for each speech segment to ensure a well-paced presentation.
• Be prepared to adapt to unexpected changes during the debate.
• Practice multiple times to enhance clarity, emphasis, and pacing, boosting confidence.

Need to polish your debate? Have a look at this in-depth blog on debate techniques and get effective tips!

Debate Speech Topics

Here are some unique topic ideas for you to write a debate on.

• Credit cards are more harmful than debit cards.
• We are becoming too dependent on technology.
• Marriage is an outdated concept.
• Homework is necessary with regard to the learning process.
• Being a college graduate in the United States is necessary for a successful career.
• It is a good idea to have laptops in classrooms.
• Facebook is a better social platform than Twitter.
• Cell phones can be used as educational tools.
• Junk food must be banned in high schools and colleges.
• The Prime Minister of any state enjoys more power than the president.

Can’t pick a topic? Check out this extensive blog with multiple debate topics and get unique ideas!

You are now better equipped to confidently prepare and deliver your debate speech.

However, if public speaking isn’t your forte or it feels overwhelming, our service is here to help. 

Simply buy speech from our expert writers and receive a persuasive and effective piece of writing. Plus, with our satisfaction guarantee, you can get your speech revised as many times as you want. 

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The Essential Guide to Structuring Your Debate Speech

Mark Pramana

Introduction

Ever had a classmate who’s super shy, stutters a lot, and freaks out at the thought of public speaking? Chances are, they struggle to get good grades on speeches. The same logic applies to debates. A well-structured and organized speech can make all the difference in how you’re perceived by the judge. So, let’s talk about why structure and organization are your secret weapons in any debate.

Why Structure and Organization Matter

Structure and organization are key to keeping the judge engaged and making your arguments easy to follow. During a debate, the judge is busy taking notes. If your speech is disorganized, they’ll have a hard time figuring out when one point ends and another begins. This could mean they miss crucial details, which is why you need to make things as clear as possible.

The Basic Structure of a Debate Speech

• Starting with Rebuttals

While it can seem a little counterintuitive to start with rebuttals rather than focusing on your main arguments, there’s a strategic reason for this approach. Rebuttals are most effective when presented immediately after the opposing speech, while the memory of the judge is still fresh. As time passes, especially when the judge is tasked with evaluating multiple arguments, the details of the previous speech can be lost. This is why it’s important to lead with rebuttals while the information is still fresh in both your mind and the judge’s.

2. Mechanism or Setting Definitions

Next up, you need to lay down some ground rules. This is where mechanisms and setting definitions come in. They set the boundaries for your main arguments and level the playing field, especially if the topic leans one way. Essentially, these definitions specify which arguments are off-limits and for what reasons, providing a vital framework for a fair and focused debate.If you’re the second or third speaker and your opening speaker has adequately established these parameters, you can skip this step and proceed directly to presenting your key points.

3. Main Arguments: The Heart of Your Speech

Main arguments are the star of your speech. They serve as the backbone of your speech, providing the content that supports your position. While rebuttals and definitions are important for framing the debate, it’s your main arguments that truly engage the judge and the audience. These arguments should be well-researched, logically sound, and clearly articulated to maximize their impact. If you’re the second or third speaker, use what your first speaker started as a base to make your team’s arguments even more detailed and convincing. Prioritize these arguments, as they are the essence of your advocacy and the most likely to sway the judge in your favor.

4. Preemptive Rebuttals (Optional)

Preemptive rebuttals should not be the focus of any speech. The reason preemptive rebuttals exist is to catch your opponent off-guard in the case that you successfully predict one or more of their main ideas. However, without proper setup of the mechanism, definitions or strong main arguments, preemptive rebuttals will get you nowhere. They are primarily for first and sometimes second speakers and should be the last priority. If you have extra time, preemptive rebuttals can be good, however if not, focus on other steps first.

Signposting: Your Roadmap

Don’t forget about signposting. This is where you give a quick rundown of what you’ll cover in your speech. It could be as simple as saying, “First, I’ll cover the mechanisms, then move on to my main arguments.” This helps the judge follow along and makes your speech more coherent.

Structure and organization aren’t just buzzwords; they’re the framework that holds your debate speech together. By paying attention to how you arrange your arguments and present your points, you’re more likely to engage the judge and make a lasting impression.

So there you have it, your go-to guide for structuring a killer debate speech. Now go out there and crush it!

Written by Mark Pramana

My name is Mark, and I am a high school student passionate about speaking, debate and Model United Nations (MUN). My Blog: https://pramanamark.wordpress.com/#

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Debate Writing

Last updated on: Apr 25, 2024

Debate Writing Steps to Help You Prepare a Winning Debate

By: Nova A.

12 min read

Reviewed By: Rylee W.

Published on: Mar 31, 2020

Whether you're an experienced debater or a new one, writing your debate speech before you deliver it is important.  

Debate writing is a skill that can help you express your opinions and persuade others. When preparing for a debate, you need to know how to craft effective arguments, support them with evidence, and address counterarguments. 

In this blog, we'll break down the essential steps of debate writing. You will also get some tips and techniques on writing a good debate. From building strong arguments to presenting them effectively, you'll gain the skills needed to excel in debates. Get ready to embark on a journey of growth and discover the secrets of. 

Let's dive in and explore the world of debate writing together!

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What is Debate Writing?

Debate writing is an essential step in preparing for a debate.

A debate is a form of persuasive communication that involves presenting arguments and counterarguments on a specific topic. Debates typically follow a defined format, with participants presenting their arguments and counterarguments in turn.

Debate writing is a process of organizing your points, arguments, and sources in writing so you know exactly what you are going to say during your debate. Writing your debate helps you express opinions effectively and convince others of the validity of your viewpoint. 

Features of Debate Writing

Understanding the nature and features of debate writing is crucial for students aiming to become effective debaters. Debate writing encompasses several key features, including:

• Structured Format

Debate writing thrives on an organized structure, where arguments unfold in a logical sequence. A well-crafted format ensures clarity, making it easier for the audience to follow and comprehend your points.

• Research and Evidence

Thorough research and strong evidence are keys to a compelling debate. You must dive deep into the topic, drawing upon credible sources to strengthen your arguments. 

• Persuasive Techniques

Beyond presenting facts, effective debaters employ persuasive techniques to sway opinions. These techniques include ethos, pathos, and logos . These persuasion techniques enhance the impact of your arguments by resonating with the audience on a deeper level.

• Critical Thinking

As a debate writer, you have to analyze information, identify flaws in opposing arguments, and construct nuanced responses. The ability to think critically contributes to the depth and strength of your position in a debate.

• Listening and Responding

Engaging with opponents' arguments requires not only attentiveness but also the ability to formulate timely and relevant counterarguments, creating a dynamic and intellectually stimulating exchange.

 Types of Debate

A debate comes in various forms, each with its own rules, structure, and objectives. Let's explore some of the common types of debate:

• Traditional Debate: This is the classic style of debate where two teams argue for or against a proposition. The traditional debate follows specific rules and formats, such as the British Parliamentary or American Parliamentary style.
• Lincoln-Douglas Debate: This style focuses on one-on-one debates. The format involves a single affirmative speaker and a single negative speaker engaging in cross-examination.
• Policy Debate: Policy debates center around specific policy proposals. Debaters analyze the advantages and disadvantages of the proposed policy, considering its economic, social, and political implications. 
• Public Forum Debate: Public forum debates aim to stimulate discussions on current events to a wider audience. Debaters present arguments, provide evidence and engage in crossfire exchanges. 
• Mock Trial Debate: Mock trial debates simulate legal proceedings, where participants act as lawyers, witnesses, and judges. Debaters present their cases by examining witnesses, introducing evidence, and making persuasive arguments. 

Six Steps for Writing a Debate

Writing a debate requires careful planning and organization to convey your arguments effectively. Here are six steps to help you through the process:

Step 1:  Use a Strong Opening

The opening of your debate sets the tone and grabs the attention of your audience. It is essential to start with a compelling hook that captivates the listeners and immediately engages them in your argument. 

Here are some tips along with their examples:

• Start with a provocative question

• Use a captivating statistic
• Share a thought-provoking quote
• Tell a compelling story or anecdote

Step 2: Clearly Define the Topic

Defining the topic of your debate helps establish the scope and context of your arguments for your audience. Here's how you can effectively define the topic:

• Provide clear definitions: Begin by offering a concise definition of the topic you will be discussing. Define any key terms or concepts that may require clarification. 

For example:

• Outline the key arguments: Identify and outline the key arguments of your debate. This helps provide a comprehensive overview and gives structure to your arguments. 
• Clarify the scope: Specify the specific focus or scope of your debate. This helps avoid confusion and ensures a more focused discussion. For example:

By clearly defining the topic, you lay the groundwork for a well-structured and informed debate.

Step 3: Write and Organize Your Arguments

Debate writing follows a structured format to ensure clarity, organization, and effective communication of arguments. Once you have a clear topic, you can write down your arguments, evidence sources, and counterarguments in an organized way. 

While variations exist based on the specific type of debate, here is a brief overview of a typical debate writing format:

Step 4: Use Appropriate Signposting

Signposting is an important technique in debate writing that involves guiding your audience through your arguments. By using signposting, you help your audience follow your line of reasoning and understand the structure of your debate. 

Here are some ways to effectively use signposting:

• Preview Main Points: 

At the beginning of your speech, briefly outline the main points or arguments you will be presenting. This provides a clear roadmap for your audience and helps them anticipate the flow of your debate. 

• Transition Phrases

Use transition phrases to move smoothly from one point to another. These phrases act as signposts, signaling the shift from one argument to the next. For example:

By using signposting techniques, you enhance the clarity and structure of your debate.

Check out this video to learn more! 

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Step 5: Assess Your Arguments

When writing your arguments for a debate, it's essential to be concise, focused, and persuasive. Here are some tips for effectively presenting your arguments:

• State your main points clearly: Begin by clearly stating your main points or arguments. Make sure your audience understands the key ideas you will be discussing.
• Provide supporting evidence: Support your arguments with relevant and credible evidence. This can include facts, statistics, expert opinions, or real-life examples. Strong evidence strengthens the validity of your arguments.
• Explain the significance of your arguments: Clearly explain why your arguments are important and relevant to the topic. Help your audience understand the implications and impact of your ideas.
• Address potential counterarguments: Anticipate potential counterarguments and address them preemptively. This shows that you have considered multiple perspectives and strengthens your position.

Remember, in a debate, you typically have limited time to present your arguments. Be concise, impactful, and persuasive to make the most of the time allotted to you.

H3- Step 6: Conclude your Debate 

The conclusion of your debate is your final opportunity to leave a lasting impression on your audience. It should effectively summarize your main arguments and reinforce the strength of your position. 

Here's how to craft a compelling conclusion:

• Summarize your main points
• Restate your main argument
• Highlight the strengths of your position
• Address counterarguments
• Maintain a confident tone

Debate Writing Examples 

Check out these debate writing samples to see how debate writing works in practice. These examples will help you make sense of the points discussed above.

Debate Writing Class 7

Debate Writing Class 8

Debate Writing Class 9

Debate Writing Class 10

Debate Writing Class 12

Things To Avoid in Debate Writing 

Debate writing requires specific skills and techniques to convey your arguments and engage your audience effectively. 

Here are some essential do's and don'ts to keep in mind:

• Don’t rely solely on emotions

While emotions can be powerful, it is essential to support your arguments with logical reasoning and evidence. Avoid basing your debate solely on personal feelings or emotional appeals.

• Avoid logical fallacies

Do not engage in logical fallacies, such as ad hominem attacks, straw man arguments, or false analogies. Stick to sound reasoning and evidence-based arguments.

• Ignoring time constraints

Respect the time limits given for your debate. Be mindful of your speech duration and allocate sufficient time for each argument. Practice pacing yourself to stay within the allotted time.

• Don’t make sweeping generalizations

Avoid making broad generalizations without providing supporting evidence. Ensure your arguments are grounded in facts and specific examples.

• Avoid being disrespectful

Maintain a respectful tone throughout the debate, even when addressing opposing viewpoints. Avoid personal attacks or derogatory language. Focus on the arguments rather than attacking individuals.

Interesting Debate Topic Ideas

Debate writing is a great way to learn more about different perspectives on important topics. Here are some engaging topics for your debate writing exercise:

• Should school uniforms be mandatory in all educational institutions?
• Is social media more harmful than beneficial for society?
• Should standardized testing be abolished in schools?
• Is animal testing necessary for scientific and medical advancements?
• Should the voting age be lowered to 16?
• Is the death penalty an effective form of punishment?
• Should genetically modified organisms (GMOs) be banned?
• Is homeschooling a better alternative to traditional schooling?
• Should the use of plastic bags be completely banned?
• Is climate change primarily caused by human activities?

Need more ideas? Head to our list of engaging debate topics for more!

Now that you understand the basics of debate writing, it's time to take things up a notch. Debate writing is a great way to hone your critical thinking and have argumentative skills. 

If you are still stuck and don’t know where to begin, don’t worry. MyPerfectPaper.net has got you covered. Our essay writer can provide you with helpful tips and guidance on how to get started and what steps to take. 

Our essay writing service can also provide you with different perks, like free unlimited revisions, a confidentiality guarantee, and more. 

Just say “ write my paper ” and we will handle the rest. So don’t hesitate any longer and contact us today. 

If you are in a rush to write your debate or if you need ideas, then try out our ai essay writer to generate a perfect piece of writing in mere seconds. It is easy to use and you can enjoy a free trial. 

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The Most Powerful Debate Speech Strategy And Topic Ideas

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• Speech Topics

Welcome to the exciting world of debate speech and topics! Forget the fancy jargon; let’s talk about how debates aren’t just about winning arguments. Picture it as a journey where we explore ideas and connect. We’re not just tossing words around; we’re diving into the core of what makes us tick.

Think of debates as more than just convincing speeches. They’re like a doorway to understanding and connecting with people. It all begins with a strong start – our introduction. It’s not just about capturing attention; it’s about inviting everyone into a space where ideas clash and minds expand.

In this space, words aren’t just tools; they’re the architects of who we are becoming. Our journey is more than winning debates; it’s about developing critical thinking, becoming great communicators, and understanding each other better. So, let’s kick off this adventure together, where the magic of debate isn’t just in the words we say but in how they shape us along the way.

11 Greatest Debate Topics Of All Time.

• How To Write a Debate Speech?

Ways In which Debate Helps Shape Overall Personality.

10 powerful debate strategies which can never go wrong. .

•  Conclusion. 

1. The Existence of a Higher Power: God vs. Atheism

Theological Arguments: Explore philosophical and theological arguments for the existence of God, such as the cosmological, teleological, and moral arguments.

Scientific Perspectives: Consider scientific perspectives that challenge traditional religious beliefs, including evolutionary theory and the Big Bang theory.

Personal Beliefs: Discuss the role of personal experiences and beliefs in shaping one’s stance on the existence of a higher power.

2. Freedom of Speech vs. Hate Speech Laws

Importance of Free Expression: Discuss the fundamental value of free expression in a democratic society and its role in fostering diversity of thought.

Harm Principle: Explore the harm principle as a criterion for limiting speech and the ethical considerations in regulating hate speech.

Balancing Rights: Consider the challenges in striking a balance between protecting individual rights and preventing harm to marginalized communities.

3. Legalization of Recreational Drugs: Pros and Cons

Individual Liberty: Discuss the argument for individual liberty, asserting that adults should have the autonomy to make choices about their bodies.

Public Health Concerns: Explore the potential negative impacts of drug legalization on public health and societal well-being.

Economic Implications: Consider the economic implications, including potential tax revenue and job creation, associated with the legalization of recreational drugs.

4. Climate Change: Human-Made vs. Natural Causes

Scientific Consensus: Examine the overwhelming scientific consensus supporting the idea that human activities contribute significantly to climate change.

Skeptic Perspectives: Discuss skeptical views that challenge the extent of human impact on climate change, considering natural climate variations.

Policy Implications: Explore the policy implications of different perspectives, including the urgency for mitigation and adaptation measures.

5. Capital Punishment: Morality and Deterrence

Retribution and Justice: Discuss the concept of retribution and whether capital punishment serves as a just response to heinous crimes.

Deterrence Effect: Examine the debate over the deterrent effect of capital punishment on potential criminals.

Risk of Wrongful Execution: Consider the ethical implications of the potential for wrongful executions and the irreversible nature of the death penalty.

6. Immigration Policies: Open Borders vs. Strict Control

Economic Contributions: Discuss the economic benefits of immigration, including contributions to the labor force and entrepreneurship.

National Security Concerns: Explore concerns related to national security, public resources, and the potential strain on social services.

Humanitarian Considerations: Consider the moral and humanitarian aspects of providing refuge to those fleeing violence or seeking a better life.

7. Assisted Suicide: Right to Die vs. Sanctity of Life

Autonomy and Dignity: Discuss the principle of autonomy and an individual’s right to make decisions about their own life, including the choice of assisted suicide.

Ethical and Religious Perspectives: Examine ethical and religious perspectives that emphasize the sanctity of life and the moral implications of assisted suicide.

Legal Implications: Consider the legal frameworks and ethical guidelines surrounding assisted suicide in different jurisdictions.

8. Privacy in the Digital Age: Security vs. Individual Rights

Surveillance Technologies: Explore the capabilities and implications of modern surveillance technologies, including mass data collection and facial recognition.

National Security Justifications: Discuss arguments that support increased surveillance for national security purposes, especially in the context of preventing terrorism.

Individual Privacy Concerns: Examine concerns related to the erosion of individual privacy rights, data breaches, and the potential for abuse of surveillance powers.

9. Universal Basic Income: Reducing Inequality vs. Economic Sustainability

Poverty Alleviation: Discuss the potential of a universal basic income (UBI) to alleviate poverty and provide financial stability to all citizens.

Economic Viability: Explore concerns about the economic feasibility and sustainability of implementing UBI, including potential impacts on workforce participation.

Social and Economic Equity: Consider how UBI might address systemic inequalities and contribute to a more equitable distribution of resources.

10. Censorship in the Arts: Protecting Morality vs. Freedom of Expression

Artistic Freedom: Discuss the importance of artistic freedom as a form of expression and creativity.

Moral and Cultural Sensitivities: Explore the need for censorship to protect societal values, moral standards, and cultural sensitivities.

Role of Cultural Context: Consider how cultural context and shifting societal norms influence the boundaries of artistic expression.

11. Animal Testing: Scientific Advancement vs. Animal Rights

Scientific Progress: Discuss the contributions of animal testing to scientific and medical advancements, including the development of new treatments and pharmaceuticals.

Ethical Treatment of Animals: Examine the ethical considerations surrounding the use of animals in research, focusing on animal rights, welfare, and alternatives to testing.

Balancing Interests: Explore the challenge of balancing scientific progress with the ethical treatment of animals, seeking common ground that respects both human and animal interests.

These elaborations provide a more in-depth understanding of each controversial debate topic, touching on various perspectives, considerations, and implications associated with each issue. Each topic reflects a complex interplay of values, ethics, and practical considerations that make them enduring subjects of discussion and debate.

How To Write A Debate Speech ?

Introduction: grabbing attention.

Begin your debate speech with a captivating introduction to immediately capture the audience’s interest. Consider using a powerful quote, a relevant anecdote, or a surprising fact related to your topic. The goal is to create an immediate connection with your listeners and set the stage for the discussion that follows. Make it clear why the topic is important and worthy of their attention. You might also include a brief overview of the main points you will cover to provide a roadmap for your audience.

Thesis Statement: Clearly State Your Position

Craft a concise and compelling thesis statement that communicates your stance on the topic. This statement should serve as the central point around which your entire speech revolves. Take the opportunity to highlight the significance of your position and why it is the most rational or ethical perspective. Additionally, consider briefly acknowledging the existence of opposing views to demonstrate your awareness of the complexity of the issue.

Main Arguments: Develop Strong Points

For each main argument, delve into detailed explanations supported by robust evidence. This evidence could include relevant research findings, real-life examples, or historical precedents. Be sure to explain the logical connections between your points and the overall thesis. Use persuasive language to underscore the importance of each argument, making it clear why the audience should find your perspective compelling.

Addressing Counter Arguments: Anticipate and Refute

Demonstrate a thorough understanding of the opposing viewpoint by anticipating counterarguments. Acknowledge these counterarguments respectfully before providing well-reasoned and persuasive refutations. This not only strengthens your position but also shows intellectual honesty and a willingness to engage with diverse perspectives. Use facts, logic, and reasoning to effectively dismantle counterarguments, leaving your audience with a sense of the robustness of your position.

Emphasize Impact: Appeal to Emotions and Values

While presenting your arguments, strategically incorporate emotional appeals to resonate with your audience. Share relatable stories, connect your points to shared values, and use language that evokes an emotional response. This not only adds depth to your speech but also helps create a memorable and impactful impression. A balance between logic and emotion can make your arguments more persuasive and relatable.

Use Persuasive Language: Enhance Convincing Power

Employ a variety of rhetorical devices and persuasive language techniques to enhance the power of your speech. Metaphors, analogies, and vivid language can make complex ideas more accessible and memorable. Consider using repetition to emphasize key points and create a rhythmic flow in your speech. Aim for clarity and precision in your language to ensure that your audience easily grasps the nuances of your arguments.

Maintain Clarity and Organization: Structured Delivery

Organize your speech in a clear and logical structure to facilitate easy comprehension. Begin with a strong introduction, followed by a clear progression of main points. Use transitions between ideas to maintain coherence and guide your audience through the flow of your arguments. A well-structured speech not only aids understanding but also enhances the overall impact of your message.

Engage the Audience: Foster Connection

Encourage active engagement by incorporating rhetorical questions, interactive elements, or moments of audience participation. Foster a sense of connection by speaking directly to the concerns and interests of your listeners. Consider using relatable examples of anecdotes that resonate with the experiences of your audience. Engaging your listeners in this way can create a more dynamic and memorable speech.

Conclusion: Reinforce Your Message

In your conclusion, re-emphasize the key points of your speech and restate your thesis with conviction. Summarize the main arguments in a way that reinforces your overall message. Conclude with a powerful and memorable statement that leaves a lasting impression on your audience. Avoid introducing new information in the conclusion; instead, focus on leaving a strong and final impact that reinforces the significance of your position.

Q&A Preparation: Be Ready for Questions

Anticipate potential questions that may arise from your audience and prepare thoughtful and well-reasoned responses. Demonstrating a thorough understanding of your topic and the ability to address inquiries with confidence adds credibility to your overall presentation. Consider practicing responses to common questions to refine your ability to articulate your position effectively. During the Q&A session, maintain composure and be open to constructive dialogue, further showcasing your expertise and conviction.

Remember, the key to a successful debate speech lies not only in the strength of your arguments but also in your ability to connect with and persuade your audience. Regular practice, feedback, and a genuine passion for your topic will contribute to a compelling and influential presentation.

Check this out to learn about public speaking and debate differences. 

Critical Thinking Skills:

Engaging in debates cultivates critical thinking by training individuals to analyze information rigorously. Debaters learn to identify key arguments, evaluate evidence, and discern logical connections. This process enhances their ability to approach complex issues with a discerning and analytical mindset.

Effective Communication:

Debate serves as a powerful platform for honing effective communication skills. Participants develop the art of articulation, mastering the ability to express ideas clearly and persuasively. Regular exposure to public speaking opportunities not only boosts confidence but also refines the delivery of compelling messages.

Check this out to learn how to deliver a memorable speech:

Research and Information Retrieval:

Debates foster strong research skills as individuals delve into diverse topics, evaluate sources, and synthesize information effectively. This process not only enhances information literacy but also teaches valuable skills in data analysis and interpretation.

Empathy and Understanding:

The nature of debates, where participants engage with a variety of viewpoints, promotes empathy and a deeper understanding of different perspectives. Exposure to diverse opinions encourages individuals to appreciate cultural nuances and fosters a more inclusive worldview.

Conflict Resolution Skills:

Debates contribute to the development of conflict resolution skills by emphasizing constructive dialogue and negotiation. Participants learn to navigate differences of opinion, seek common ground, and work towards resolutions collaboratively.

Leadership Qualities:

Active participation in debates fosters leadership qualities such as confidence and initiative. Debaters often take charge of researching, organizing arguments, and leading team efforts, contributing to the development of effective leadership skills.

Time Management:

The time constraints inherent in debates teach individuals to prioritize information effectively. Participants learn to cover multiple points within a structured timeframe, enhancing their ability to manage time efficiently.

Check this out to learn how to ace a 2-minute speech:

Teamwork and Collaboration:

Debating frequently occurs in team settings, fostering teamwork and collaboration. Participants develop skills in effective communication within teams, resolving conflicts, and achieving collective goals.

Debate, as a structured and disciplined form of discourse, provides a platform for personal growth and the development of a well-rounded personality. It not only enhances cognitive and communication skills but also nurtures qualities such as empathy, adaptability, and ethical decision-making, contributing to the holistic development of individuals.

1. Solid Research And Preparation: The Foundation Of Success

In-Depth Understanding: Devote time to thoroughly understand the nuances of your chosen topic. Conduct extensive research to be well-informed on various aspects of the issue.

Counterargument Anticipation: Anticipate potential counterarguments that opponents might present. This allows you to proactively address opposing views and strengthen your position.

Factual Support: Arm yourself with concrete evidence, facts, and statistics. This not only bolsters your credibility but also adds weight to your arguments.

2. Clear And Concise Communication: Precision Matters

Clarity of Expression: Express your ideas in a straightforward and easy-to-understand manner. Avoid unnecessary complexity that might confuse the audience and dilute your message.

Key Message Emphasis: Emphasize key points with precision. Clearly articulate your thesis and ensure that each supporting argument aligns with and reinforces your central message.

Memorable Language: Use language that is both concise and memorable. Craft statements that leave a lasting impression, making it easier for the audience to recall your key arguments.

3. Active Listening: Addressing Counterarguments Effectively

Attentiveness: Actively listen to your opponents during the debate. Paying close attention allows you to respond effectively and demonstrate respect for differing viewpoints.

Acknowledgment of Valid Points: Acknowledge valid points made by the opposition. This not only showcases your fairness but also allows you to engage in a more constructive and nuanced debate.

Strategic Response: Respond thoughtfully to counterarguments. Be prepared to address opposing views with well-reasoned and compelling rebuttals.

4. Adaptability: Flexibility In The Face Of Challenges

Responsive Approach: Be prepared to adapt your strategy based on the flow of the debate. Flexibility allows you to navigate unexpected turns and respond effectively to evolving circumstances.

Open-Mindedness: Demonstrate an open-minded approach to new information. If presented with compelling evidence, be willing to adjust your stance accordingly.

Strategic Agility: Develop the ability to think on your feet and adjust your arguments and responses as the debate unfolds.

5. Emotional Intelligence: Connecting With Your Audience

Understanding Audience Emotions: Consider the emotions and values of your audience. Tailor your arguments to resonate with the experiences and concerns of the people you are addressing.

Emotional Appeals: Incorporate emotional appeals strategically. Connecting with the audience on an emotional level makes your arguments more relatable and persuasive.

Empathy in Communication: Use empathy to establish a genuine connection. Demonstrate an understanding of the perspectives and emotions of your audience.

6. Confidence And Body Language: Projecting Authority

Confident Posture: Maintain a confident and upright posture throughout the debate. Projecting confidence through body language contributes to your perceived authority.

Eye Contact: Make deliberate and consistent eye contact with the audience and opponents. This not only conveys confidence but also fosters a sense of connection.

Vocal Presence: Ensure a strong and clear vocal presence. Speak with conviction and avoid vocal patterns that may suggest uncertainty.

7. Strategic Use of Time: Maximize Impact

Time Allocation: Strategically allocate your time to cover all key points without rushing. Prioritize high-impact arguments and allocate sufficient time for their presentation.

Strategic Pauses: Use strategic pauses for emphasis. Pauses allow the audience to absorb your points and can add weight to your arguments.

Time Management Skills: Develop effective time management skills to ensure that your speech is well-paced and impactful.

8. Consistency in Messaging: Reinforce Your Core Points

Unified Message: Maintain consistency in your messaging throughout the debate. Reinforce your core arguments and thesis to create a cohesive and unified presentation.

Avoiding Contradictions: Be vigilant about avoiding contradictions in your arguments. Inconsistencies can weaken your overall position and undermine your credibility.

Repetition for Emphasis: Repetition can be used strategically to emphasize key points and ensure that your central message is reinforced.

9. Engage the Audience: Foster Connection and Interest

Relatable Examples: Connect with the audience by using relatable examples and anecdotes. Grounding your arguments in real-life situations makes your message more accessible.

Interactive Elements: Encourage audience engagement through rhetorical questions or interactive elements. Active participation fosters a sense of involvement and interest.

Addressing Audience Concerns: Speak directly to the concerns and interests of your audience. Tailor your arguments to resonate with the experiences and values of those you are addressing.

10. Grace Under Pressure: Navigate Challenges with Composure

Calm Demeanor: Remain calm and composed, especially when faced with challenging questions or counterarguments. A composed demeanor enhances your perceived competence and confidence.

Professionalism: Handle pressure with grace and professionalism. Maintain focus on the substance of your arguments rather than getting derailed by external pressures.

Effective Problem-Solving: Develop effective problem-solving skills to address unexpected challenges. Navigating pressure with composure demonstrates resilience and adaptability.

By incorporating these elaborated strategies into your debating approach, you can enhance your effectiveness, build credibility, and leave a lasting impression on your audience. Continuous practice and refinement will contribute to your growth as a skilled and persuasive debater.

In summary, the world of debate is a transformative journey that extends beyond the exchange of arguments. Crafting a debate speech is more than an exercise in persuasion; it’s an opportunity to refine our ability to connect with others. Exploring profound topics in debates prompts introspection and broadens our understanding of the world.

Powerful debate strategies go beyond winning; they teach us adaptability and the importance of emotional intelligence. It’s not just about presenting arguments; it’s about becoming individuals who can navigate life’s challenges with resilience and grace. Debate shapes our personality in multifaceted ways. It cultivates critical thinking, enhances communication skills, and instills empathy. Engaging with diverse perspectives fosters a more nuanced worldview, contributing to a well-rounded personality.

In essence, the debate is a dynamic and evolving process that leaves an unerasable mark on our character. It’s a journey that molds us into individuals capable of not only articulating ideas persuasively but also of connecting with others on a deeper level. Through debate, we become architects of our growth, equipped with the skills and perspectives needed to thrive in the ever-changing landscape of life.

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Debate Writing | Complete Format & Samples in PDF

Browsing through channels might have landed you in a heated argument between two or more people talking in favour of or against a discussion topic or school if you have participated in debate competitions. After being given a topic, the participant either spoke in favour or ainst it. The above debate speech example might have given you an idea of what this article’s topic is going to be.

This writing piece will cover what debate and debate writing in CBSE class 11 is, along with its structure and some examples with practice questions.

What is Debate Writing?

When two speakers oppose each other’s points with counterstatements in a public setting, making it a public discussion is known as debate. The speaker can speak in favour of the topic if they agree with it or otherwise against the topic if they have opposing views.

CBSE Class 11 English Debate Writing is a way of preparing and presenting one’s perspective regarding a topic or an issue that can convince the audience regarding the validity of their statements. Debate writing is usually written in a persuasive and structured manner and involves two or more people countering each other’s statements. 

Students can download this PDF for several debate writing samples and practice questions.

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Importance of Debate Writing

Debate writing offers several reasons, making it vital both in academic life and in society. Below are a few of the several reasons regarding it.

• It helps improve communication skills by allowing a person to present their views clearly and persuasively. It will help improve verbal and written communication skills and facilitate effective communication in both personal and professional environments.
• One can’t speak for or against something if they have no idea what they have to talk about. Debate writing in CBSE Class 11 English will help in improving research and analytical skills. The person had to research deeply about the topic or issue to decide if they stood on the agreeing side or the opposing side.
• Fear of public speaking is what the majority possess, and debate writing plays a significant role in overcoming the fear. Public speaking skills will help throughout life, especially when someone is going for a job interview, presentations, as a representative, and many more.
• On the academic level, it will help in gaining analytical, research, and writing skills. It will also help boost confidence to speak and present one’s views.

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Debate Writing Format

This is the debate writing format CBSE Class 11 students can use in the exams.

Debate Introduction Examples for Students

There is a significant need to learn how to initiate a debate even if a person is not in favour of the said statement to showcase respect and acknowledgement to every individual, including the judges present there. Below are some introduction debate writing examples for students that they can use.

• Greet every individual present at the debate setting.
• Thankful expression
• Clarify if you are going to speak in favour of or against the motions, i.e., if you stand.

Here are debate introduction examples for students. 

• Good morning, everyone present here! Today I will speak about the motion, ‘Mobile phones are a growing health hazard’.
• Good morning, everyone present here! Today, I, xyz, stand before you to speak against the motion, ‘No detention policy for classes sixth to eight is academically very unsound.’
• Good day, honourable chairman, panel of judges, co-debaters, and distinguished ladies and gentlemen."

Debate Writing Example

The section below will provide you with some debate writing examples to help you get a clear idea.

Write a debate in 150 – 200 words either for or against the motion: ‘Social Media and Its Effects’.

SOCIAL MEDIA AND ITS EFFECTS

**In Favour**

Without a doubt, social media has altered the way we connect and communicate with one another. It has enhanced communication between individuals, increased access to information, and given everyone a voice. Social media's capacity to cross borders and unite people from all over the world is one of its advantages. It has made it possible to network, work together, and exchange cultures. Additionally, social media platforms have been crucial in raising public awareness of social concerns, rallying support for campaigns, and giving voice to underrepresented groups.

**Against**

However, it's crucial to consider how social media has affected our culture. On the other hand, it is impossible to ignore social media's detrimental effects. Addiction's potential and its consequences on mental health are two worrying effects. Increased feelings of loneliness, despair, and anxiety have been associated with excessive social media use. Furthermore, exposure to meticulously maintained online personas daily might result in low self-esteem and irrational comparisons. The proliferation of false information and the impact of fake news are further negatives. Social media platforms have developed into a haven for misleading information, which can harm politics, public opinion, and interpersonal harmony. Concerns about privacy invasion, online security hazards, and cyberbullying are also quite important.

In conclusion, social media has an impact on our society that is both positive and detrimental. Utilizing its advantages while being mindful of its possible drawbacks must be balanced. We can use social media for good while reducing its negative consequences by encouraging digital literacy, responsible online behavior, and maintaining a secure and inclusive digital world.

Write a debate in 150 – 200 words either for or against the motion: ‘Academic Excellence Is The Only Requirement For A Successful Career’.

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE IS THE ONLY REQUIREMENT FOR A SUCCESSFUL CAREER

**In Favour **

While academic excellence is undoubtedly important in building a foundation of knowledge and skills, it is not the sole requirement for a successful career. Success in a career is often determined by a combination of factors such as practical experience, soft skills, adaptability, and networking abilities. Real-world application of knowledge, critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication skills are essential for thriving in any professional environment. Furthermore, success is often influenced by factors such as creativity, innovation, and the ability to think outside the box. These qualities cannot be solely acquired through academic pursuits but are developed through exposure to diverse experiences and a willingness to take risks.

**Against **

Additionally, a successful career often requires a strong work ethic, resilience, and the ability to collaborate with others. These interpersonal skills are nurtured through experiences like internships, extracurricular activities, and community involvement, which extend beyond academic achievements. While academic excellence is not the sole determinant of success, it still plays a significant role in opening doors to opportunities and providing individuals with a solid foundation on which to build their careers.

In conclusion, while academic excellence is undoubtedly valuable, it is not the only requirement for a successful career. Practical experience, soft skills, adaptability, creativity, and networking abilities are equally crucial. Emphasizing holistic development and a well-rounded skill set will better equip individuals for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in their careers.

Some Techniques to Follow for Debate Writing 

There are a few things one needs to keep in mind in class 11 CBSE debate writing in English.

• Research the topic carefully before you start writing. Researching will help you in choosing a side and will give you an insight into the topic.
• Don’t repeat points especially when you are speaking in public speaking. It showcases the individual’s lack of awareness and confidence.
• Regardless of the side you are writing/speaking for, ensure the points presented are thought-provoking and valuable.
• The tone must be persuasive and clear, don’t make any illogical points.

How many steps are there in debate writing?

There are five major steps in class 11 debate writing. Start debate writing with the a. Introduction , followed by the b. Statement of Fact, where the writer expresses the empirical phenomenon in small pieces, then backs it up with some c. Evidence , and d. Refutation, expressing strong agreement or disagreement with the topic, and ending the debate writing with the conclusion.

What are the different debate introductions with examples?

Below are some debate introduction examples that students can use.

Is there any standard structure for debate writing in Classes 12 and 11?

Yes, there is a debate writing format used in Class 12 and Class 11, divided into Introduction, Middle Statement (Statement of Fact, Evidence, and Refutation), and Conclusion.

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Debate Writing Format for Class 10: A Detailed Guide

One of the most significant barriers to effective self-expression during a debate can be your incapacity to articulate your ideas. However, be at ease!

We can help if you’re stumbling around attempting to figure out how to write a fantastic debate speech or having difficulty writing a composition .

To help you write the ideal debate, we’ll cover debate writing kinds, formats, and style guides in this blog.

Let’s go!

Table of Contents

What is Debate Writing?

Two opposing teams argue and defend a certain resolution in a formal battle of reasoning known as a debate. Converting someone’s opinion to yours is likewise a persuasive speech technique.

In this instance, the speaker either defends or refutes the subject under discussion. In addition, it involves composing and organizing the discussion prior to its official presentation.

Features of Debate Writing

The primary components of debate writing are not like writing a story where there is a plot, characters, a location, a setting, etc. The components for debate writing are as follows.

• Informative: A solid argument needs to include all relevant details and data. Using reason and logic is meant to enlighten and educate others.
• Well-reasoned: In a dispute, the points put out need to be sensible, pertinent, skillful, and clearly articulated.
• Persuasive: To persuade the audience, a discussion needs to highlight compelling points.
• Orderly: The facts must be presented in a debate in a methodical and planned manner. It should adhere to a particular format as well.
• Dynamic: In a dispute, two groups make contrasting claims. Likewise, every team member needs to be questioned about and provide an answer on all the significant aspects.

Types of Debate

The types of debate that are commonly used on different occasions are described in detail below.

Team Policy Debate:

Two teams, each with two debaters, compete in the team policy debate. Presenting a vast amount of facts in a logical manner is the primary goal.

Cross-Examination Debate:

This is the time in between remarks. Here, the opponents ask one another to elucidate and comprehend the arguments supported by facts.

The Lincoln-Douglas Debate:

This is an open forum, one-on-one discussion. Here, the debaters concentrate on making a strong, reasoned case for or against a subject.

Spontaneous Argumentation:

Two teams debate a certain topic in spontaneous argumentation, which doesn’t involve a lot of study. In the same way, the presentation dominates this argument over the content.

Public Forum Debate:

It involves discussions of contentious issues. Additionally, these are meant to assess the debaters’ abilities in refutation, cross-examination, and argumentation.

Parliamentary Debate:

Two teams participate in a parliamentary debate: the opposition team and the government team. The opposition team argues against the motion that the government team has proposed.

Debate Writing Format

The format for debate writing in middle or high school is the same. In order to help you understand the components of a discussion, we have included a thorough framework here.

• Introductions and Explanations

It starts with three main points made in the opening phrases and ends with clarifying queries.

• Pro Team: Five minutes
• Con Team: Two minutes
• Con Team: Five minutes
• Pro Team: Two minutes
• Counterarguments

The debaters restate and evaluate the opponent’s claims and points of view in this stage.

•  Pro Team: Three minutes
• Con Team: Three minutes

Following in-depth discussions with the opposing side, the debaters will now provide a summary of their perspectives. Similarly, it enables them to defend their position as superior.

• Pro Team: Three minutes

Following a thorough discussion, each team has 20 minutes to respond to the questions.

To assist you in organizing your debate, refer to the provided debate writing template.

How to Start a Debate?

The question “How to write a debate introduction?” may seem intimidating when you first begin the writing process but don’t panic.

These simple steps can help you create an engaging introduction for your argument.

• Great Salutation and Powerful First Line: With a passionate welcome and an attention-grabbing opening statement that establishes the tone for your debate, greet your audience.
• Describe a Personal Experience: Share a personal story that humanizes the subject and makes it approachable and interesting to establish an emotional connection.
• State an Amazing Fact: To spark interest and build credibility, start your debate by introducing a startling or impressive truth about the subject of your argument.
• Make Use of a Strong Quote: Incorporate a thought-provoking quote that supports your position to give your speech more substance and authority.
• Pose a Hypothetical Question: Ask a rhetorical question to get your audience to consider the topic at hand and to think critically.
• Describe the Issue: Explain the issue or difficulty related to your debate topic in detail, emphasizing its importance and applicability.
• Provide Your Thoughts on the Matter: Take a position on the issue, giving a brief synopsis of your case and laying out the framework for the points you will make in your debate speech.

How to Write a Debate?

The guidelines listed below will help you write a debate speech that will make you stand out from the competition:

Recognize the Argument

Knowing the nature of debate writing is the first of many steps toward mastering it. In this case, each team will be given a topic and asked to select between an affirmative and negative position.

Investigate the Subject

To fully grasp all sides of the argument, conduct a thorough brainstorming session and extensive research on the subject. List the important points, and then utilize reliable sources to address them in your main grounds of content.

Construct a Debate Structure

Create a simple three-section structure for your debate speech. The structure should have an introduction, a body, and a conclusion, all of which are covered in full below.

The attention grabber appears in the initial portion of the outline. Use a thesis statement to introduce your issue and provide context. To comprehend the direction of the debate, give a brief synopsis of the arguments made by the students as well.

It is the primary portion of the discussion that goes into great detail about the main arguments. It also provides proof and logical justification for the thesis.

The final opportunity to introduce key concepts is in the conclusion. It concludes with a powerful statement and adds passion and emotion to the sentences, summarizing the major body.

Writing the Debate

Write the final draft of your argument now. Mention the ethos, pathos, and logos—the three main components of persuasion. These serve to clarify how the resolution affects things in the real world.

Additionally, to keep a logical flow between paragraphs, employ transition words. Finally, check and revise your writing to make sure there are no grammatical, spelling, or punctuation mistakes.

This is a fantastic illustration of a well-written beginning for a debate:

The question for discussion today is, “Should virtual reality be integrated into the education system?” ladies and gentlemen. Opening for the affirmative side is me, Rajesh Kumar. We’ll demonstrate how the use of virtual reality can transform education. Let’s start with our initial disagreement.

How to End a Debate?

Make sure you have covered all of the following points before concluding the discussion. It will assist you in determining how credible your argument is.

• Does your debate begin with a compelling salutation?
• Does it offer unique content, firsthand knowledge, and an action call?
• Does the debate adhere to the correct format and structure?
• Does it have the right kind of sentence structure?
• Is there a coherent flow of ideas from one paragraph to the next?
• Have you edited it to fix common errors in punctuation, grammar, and spelling?
• Does the discussion touch on your thoughts on the assigned subject?
• Does the argument conclude with a strong statement that will influence the audience going forward?

Tips and Tricks for Debate Writing

These fantastic debate hints and techniques can help you craft the ideal debate:

• It is best to be informed about and ready for an argument before engaging in one.
• Perform in-depth research to gather pertinent information and create original arguments regarding the subject.
• When writing, one should use common sense to determine whether important claims are true.
• Try to comprehend the formal argument by drawing on a range of personal encounters.
• To make the arguments more genuine and believable, include instances and supporting data.
• When presenting a critical argument, keep the judges’ and the audience’s perspectives in mind as well.
• Always plan your speech with the time constraints in mind.
• Don’t always reject the arguments put out by the opposition. As an alternative, make notes and use reason.
• As you develop your case, consider every potential objection that others might have.
• Never introduce fresh points of contention in your concluding paragraph.

You can create an excellent debate essay for your high school or college by using this thorough debate writing tutorial. We have addressed every important detail that is required to create a compelling argument.

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Debate Speech

Debate speech generator.

Debate. What would be the first thing that pops in our minds when we think of that? To some, it is an intellectual argument on about almost anything. From various concepts such as love and the reason of living in the first place to something serious such as political views of a person. Merriam-Webster defines debate as a contention by words or arguments. In terms of law or government, it is the formal discussion of a motion before a deliberative body according to the rules of parliamentary procedure. A debate can also serve as a regulated discussion of a proposition between two matched sides.

• Speech Templates
• Welcome Speech

Although the concept of a debate is that it does not always have to be so formal and that the exchange of ideas can be casually done, there are occasions that it will have to be formal especially when representing your school for a inter-school competition or simply for a debate class. You may also see motovational speech .

Considering that the topic has already been assigned to you and your group mates, it is important that you begin preparing for your debate with the opposing party. Here are some examples listed down.

1.  Preparing for the Debate Speech

2. research the topic very thoroughly with credible information..

• Brainstorm the topic and research before you sit down to write. Write out a pro and con list. If you are on a debate team, do this together. Each member could discuss the pro and con lists, and then strike the weaker reasons until you are left with three or four reasons that seem strongest in support or opposition.You may also see self introduction speech .
• It also helps to spend time in the library since not every resource material can be found on the internet.
• You and the team would also want to deal with the strongest arguments on the other side in your speech as ignoring the other side’s best arguments can weaken your rhetorical appeal.You may also see informative speech .

3. Write an outline of your speech.

• A simple debate outline should at least contain these four parts: An introduction, your thesis argument, your key points to back your stance up, and a conclusion. For unknown terminologies, prepare a definition in advance so that you can have an answer when the judges ask you may also see presentation speech .
• You can break each of those four part into subcategories. It’s often a good idea to write the introduction and conclusion last, focusing on the thesis argument and the evidence to back it up first.

Writing the Debate Speech

1. write an introduction that is catchy and interesting..

Who does not love a good and catchy introduction? But for these kinds of situations, it is best to stay mindful as the whole point of this debate lies in the formality sense which is something to be taken seriously.

• For instance, a simple good morning to all parties involved and witnessing the said debate will suffice. There is no need for extra remarks or commentaries if not asked.You may also see orientation speech
• its critical to always make a good impression, especially to the judges as this will make them think that the debater is persuasive speech. In order to achieve this, one technique in writing a strong introduction is to contextualize the topic, especially when the topic depicts a present situation.
• Some introduction speech can also focus on prominent examples, quotations, or on a personal anecdote that can help establish a rapport with the audience and judges. Be mindful when using humor though as it involves risks that can eventually lead to awkward silences if not done right. Find a relevant specific that illustrates the underlying point.

2. Outline where you stand very clearly.

Make sure that you point out which stance your team belongs to. Since this is a debate, being part of the positive or negative stance does not serve as an advantage for as long as you are able make your points get through the judges and the audience, then it is enough.You may also see speech examples for students .

• Don’t muddle on your assigned stance. It needs to be extremely clear whether you affirm or negate the resolution, so don’t try to confuse and eventually contradict yourself in the middle of the debate. The audience also should not have to wait until the end to find out. Make your stance very clear, and do it early on. You may also see declamation speech .

3. Make key points to back up your stance.

As early as possible, you have to identify the main key points found in your speech.

• One good way to do this is to back up your position with three to four strong points of supporting argumentation. More than one to two key points are required to back up your stance.
• In every speech, the body or the “meat” of the speech is always the most important part . But keep in mind that you will only be given a short span of time for you to say your piece before time runs out (perhaps 3 ½ minutes to 30 seconds for an opening and for a conclusion, depending on the given rules of the debate).

4. Develop your key points.

Even as you deliver your key points in the said debate, it still cannot be without substance. Back every single one of your key points up with examples, statistics and other resources that can be found during your research.

Focus on the causes of the problem, the effects of the problem, expert opinion, examples, and statistics. Then after that, present a solution. In a debate, you are not given the opportunity to use a PowerPoint Presentation, so as you continue discussing the points of your stance, allow your audience to visualize on what you are saying. You may also see debate speech. You may also see graduation speech .

Do not only attempt to appeal to the motives and emotions of the listener, but also to their sense of fair play, desire to save, to be helpful, to care about the community, and others with a light touch.Try using rhetorical questions which make your opponents consider the validity of their point. Consider irony which undermines their point and makes you seem more mature and intelligent, simile  which gives them something to relate to, humor which gets the audience on your side when done well, and repetition which reinforces your point. You may also see inspirational speech .

5. Understand the art of persuasion.

Finally, what is a debate with persuasion? Ancient philosophers such as Aristotle studied the art of persuasion, and by understanding their techniques will further help your debate speech. You may also tribute speech .

Aristotle believed that speakers are more persuasive writing if they combined elements of logos (persuasion by reasoning) with pathos (having an element of emotional appeal) and ethos (an appeal based on the character of the speaker) – for example, that they seem intelligent or of good will.

There are two ways to use logic – inductive (the premises are viewed as supplying strong evidence for the truth of the conclusion) and deductive (if all premises are true, the terms are clear, and the rules of deductive logic are followed, then the conclusion is necessarily true). You may also see wedding speech .

We hope you enjoyed browsing through our debate speech examples. Debating is both an entertaining an serious activity especially when tackling issues on humanity and the natural environment. Despite what topics you choose, there is a standard forma. You may also see youth speech .

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Instant Debate Speech Maker Online

Debates are an excellent opportunity to develop many personal skills, become a more open-minded person, and learn new information. Through this activity, students improve critical thinking, public speaking, teamwork skills, increase their self-esteem, and learn to disagree with others.

Preparing for a debate can take a lot of time, which is why our team has created this tool and guide for you. With our debate speech maker, you no longer have to sit for hours and think about how to formulate your argument correctly! Also, on this page you will learn many useful facts about debates and get tips for preparing for them.

• 📢 Introduction to the Tool

🗣️ What Is a Debate?

👍 debate maker benefits, ✏️ how to write a debate speech, 🔗 references, 📢 debate script maker: an introduction.

If you’ve decided to participate in a debate, you probably know that this activity requires a lot of preparation. Sometimes, you may receive the topic of your debate in advance so that you have time to prepare thoroughly for it. But also, you may be given the subject on the day of the debate, and then you’ll have much less time to prepare. In either case, our debate maker will be an indispensable assistant!

When comparing AI vs human writers, artificial intelligence excels in the speed of content creation, although it loses in creativity. Unlike when using other AI chat bots, you don't have to bother with creating successful prompts. Using this tool is simple - to instantly make a speech, you’ll need to take these four steps:

• Type in the topic of the debate.
• State your position and audience.
• Indicate whether you are replying to an opponent.
• Click “Generate” and get your result!

A debate is a structured and formalized argumentative exchange between two or more opposing sides . While this practice is usually associated with the election season , it can also be often found in schools or colleges. Participants, categorized as either the “pro” or “con” side, systematically present and defend their perspectives on a given topic. They use evidence to back up their claims and. Each side takes turns articulating arguments and responding to their opponent's points.

The primary objective of a debate is persuasion - convincing the opposition and the audience. Although debates often lack a declared winner, they may conclude with a vote or judgment from adjudicators in formal settings. Informal debates can persist until one side concedes.

Debate Terminology Examples for Students

Here, you can become familiar with the basic terms. It’ll be beneficial for you to learn them to make it easier to grasp the debate structure further.

• Adjudicator - An impartial observer who evaluates the debate. Such moderators provide feedback on the quality of arguments and overall performance. Also, they can contribute to determining the winner in formal debates.
• An affirmative - A team or speaker supporting the motion in a debate. Affirmatives present arguments in favor of the proposition. They aim to convince the audience or adjudicators of the motion's validity.
• Motion - The central topic, idea, or statement being debated. The motion frames the discussion and determines the stances of the affirmative and opposition sides. Debaters construct arguments either in support or against this subject.
• Chairperson - The person responsible for moderating and overseeing the debate. Their goal is to maintain order and ensure adherence to the rules. The chairperson may introduce speakers and the motion.
• Card - A card is a paragraph or several paragraphs taken from an authoritative journalistic or scholarly source that proves the validity of a particular argument. It should be a verbatim quotation without additions or paraphrasing. It is important to explain the quote and how it relates to the argument.
• Floor - The general audience or participants who are not actively engaged in the debate but may have the opportunity to pose questions. They can make contributions during designated segments. The floor adds an interactive element to the discussion.
• Opposition/a Negative - A team or speaker taking an opposing stance on the core topic. The opposition presents arguments countering the proposition. Such arguments should demonstrate flaws in the affirmative's position and persuade the audience that the motion is unsupported.
• The first speaker - The initial speaker of a team. They introduce and establish the main arguments supporting or opposing the motion. Their speech should set the tone for the team's position and outline the critical points to be developed by subsequent speakers.
• The second speaker - The second speaker introduces additional evidence and reinforces the team's position. They aim to strengthen their affirmative/opposing case and respond to the arguments from the other team.
• The third speaker - The last speaker should summarize the team's key points. They may also respond to opposition’s reasons raised during the debate. The goal is to leave a lasting impression on the adjudicators before the discussion concludes.
• Reply speeches - Reply speeches are the concluding words from both the affirmative and opposition sides. These speeches are often shorter, not more than three minutes. Such speeches are the last chance to influence the overall impression, so they should strongly support your ideas.

What Does the Maker of the Argument Do in a Debate?

In a debate, the first speaker, whether on the affirmative or opposition side, should:

• Formulate a clear and concise stance on the motion.
• Organize arguments logically, presenting a structured case.
• Support points with relevant facts and examples.
• Convince adjudicators and the audience of the credibility of their position.

The Structure of a Debate

Whether an academic debate or a parliamentary one, the structure and ground rules essentially remain the same.

In this section, we'll briefly explain how your proceedings are going to look like:

• Gathering the sides . At this stage, you should determine the teams and their participants. They are divided into affirmative and negative sides. As a rule, the debates should include three speakers , who will take turns and, at each stage, strengthen their position. All participants should meet 15 minutes before the start to prepare materials .
• Starting the debate . Participants should determine the debate’s time limit, as speeches cannot last nonstop. Usually, each speaker is given a maximum of 3 minutes for their presentation. At the beginning, the speakers should introduce themselves. The duration of the answer is regulated by the timekeeper , who should give a bell 30 seconds before the end of the speaker's time to start summarizing.
• Debating the topic . The core of the debate involves a structured exchange between the sides. The first speaker for the affirmative introduces the motion, presenting key arguments. The opposition's first speaker responds, presenting counterarguments. This pattern continues with subsequent speakers building upon and responding to the points raised. The debate format could also include cross-examination or questioning segments.
• Finishing the debate . Both sides deliver final counter-speeches summarizing key arguments. The adjudicators then assess the overall performance of each side. The persuasiveness of the arguments presented assists in the audience’s decision-making. Participants may engage in discussions and receive feedback . After the debate, each team is given the opportunity to thank everyone in attendance.

As you've probably already realized, getting ready for such a significant event will take a lot of time. You'll need to gather your thoughts, stay level-headed, and be assertive in your stance. This preparation process can be quite overwhelming. That's why our debate script maker is the perfect solution!

This debate writer has many advantages:

• Time-saving . This AI tool will speed up the process of creating a script. You won't have to worry about the structure and arguments.
• Inspirational . Our maker will allow you to explore different points of view, and you may look at your discussion topic from a new angle that will inspire you.
• Free . You can use the debate generator without prepayments and subscription fees. Besides, our tool does not have any limit on the number of requests.
• Online . Finally, thanks to online access, you don't need to download any apps, so that you can use our speech maker anytime from any device.

Our tool is a great way to save time and get that initial burst of inspiration for your debate. However, that is just the beginning. You will still need to edit and finalize this speech. Additionally, you may find it helpful to learn how to write one yourself.

The following steps will show you how to improve your speech and prepare you for your future debates:

• Compelling beginning . The opening of your speech is of the utmost significance. Your task is to captivate the audience and create the overall atmosphere of the speech. We suggest using a hook at the very beginning. It can be a question or a fact intended to capture the attention of your opposition and the audience. You could also use a quote from a famous person, an interesting statistic, a rhetorical question, or even a relevant personal anecdote.
• Presenting your arguments . This is the time to talk about your position on the topic. Be sure to formulate a concise thesis statement . After that, you should provide the arguments that support it. Explain each point clearly to avoid misunderstanding among the audience.
• Explaining the position . Follow a structure where each of your arguments is followed by evidence and then justification. Proof builds credibility and engages the listeners. Ensure that you have data only from relevant and reliable sources.
• Summarizing . In the concluding part of your persuasive speech, you should reiterate your thesis and essential arguments. Emphasize the value of your position. It’s your last opportunity to impress the judge and the listeners. Round it off by offering a provocative question, a recommendation, or talking about your predictions for the future of the subject.
• Confidence and consistency . After writing your speech, you should refine its structure so that you have smooth transitions from one idea to the next. Use connecting words to tie your arguments together. Afterward, practice your speech and make sure it's clear . Your gestures, facial expressions, and intonation are ways to communicate with listeners. Be convincing but not pushy, and use a moderate pace.

We wish you good luck in your debates! And if you need to create a different kind of speech, try our informative speech generator .

Updated: Jan 26th, 2024

• What is a debate? – Vanesa Velkova, European Commission
• How debating works – Law Society of Scotland
• Debating: A Brief Introduction for Beginners – Debating SA Incorporated
• Debate Timing & Structure - Debating Matters
• How do you structure your debate speech to capture the attention and interest of your audience? - LinkedIn
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Difference Between Speech and Debate

• Categorized under Language , Words | Difference Between Speech and Debate

A speech, or a debate, is a formal manner of addressing a group of people.   The most obvious difference between the two forms of address is, a speech follows one opinion, while a debate is between two people on two opposing sides.   Each side of the debate gives an opposing opinion.   The debaters are either for or against the topic debated.   The audience listening to the debate may decide which side of the debate they will be supporting.   A speech on the other hand gives one opinion, or views, on a topic that is presented to an audience.   The audience may agree or disagree with the speaker.   The debate and the speech are forms of academic discussion or testimonies to the art of speaking in public.   Both of these oratory forms require a speech to be made.

What Does Speech Mean?

A good speech needs preparation and delivery.   The speaker presents his or her thoughts on a particular subject to an audience.   The audience may be made up of students in an educational environment or it could be of political origin.   A speech can be made to academic circles or at social events like weddings, special birthdays and other occasions.   A speech can be informal, creating awareness over a social issue, or more formal in front of an audience. The speaker is usually giving an opinion on a given topic.   The audience may have empathy with, or may need conversion to, the speaker’s project or cause.   A speech involves more individual performance around the chosen topic to keep the audience captivated and listening to the speaker.

How Speeches are Defined?

• By presentation: 

Speeches are made by an individual to a group or to a larger audience.   Speeches can be broadcast to reach an even wider audience. 

• By content:

Speeches can be used to edify particular like minded groups.   The content would be social, political or educational topics needed for the group’s edification or development.   The content of a speech may be required to reach a particular group.   Someone passionate about a particular topic may choose to speak in a public place on their topic.   Their speech may reach anyone who may be passing by.

Different types of speeches serve their different groups of listeners on different occasions.   There are inaugural speeches, official ceremonial speeches, lectures, and formal occasions when a speech is required at the event – a wedding for example.

• By contribution:

The contribution of the speech is the given topic and the input required to make the speech appropriate.   A wedding speech for example would require the family connection and information to make the speech appropriate.   A speech at a lecture for students would require the correct academic information.

What is Debating?

Although debating requires public speaking, the concept of a debate is different.   The   purpose of the speakers in a debate is to present opposite sides of a topic that can be argued in a for or against manner.   Debating sets out formal routines for the process of the debate.   The speaker for the topic speaks followed by the speaker against the topic.   There may be more than one speaker in each debating team in some situations.   The audience listens to the two sides to the debate and will form an opinion based on the speeches.   Basically a debate is an extended formal argument.   The advantage of listening to a debate is both sides of the argument are presented for the audience.   Debating has rules and definition.   There are different types of debates and some educational institutions have debating societies.   Prior to a debate it is important to set down the rules by which the debate will be conducted.   Some debates are judged and there is audience participation.   Generally there are two teams, one is the team in favor of the topic and the other team against the topic.   Most debates have different members assigned to the sides of the debate.   An exception to this is a debating style called ‘Turncoat debate’ and in this situation one person takes both sides of the argument and delivers a solo performance. 

How Debates are Defined?

• By presentation:

Two teams present the arguments for or against a topic.   The rules of the debate are pre determined by the debating society.   Audience participation is encouraged and a judgment proclaimed at the end of the debate to determine which side was the most convincing.

There are many topics used for debate.   The subject matter could depend on the group of people the debate is presented to.   School debating societies would have a variety of challenging topics relative to student debates.   Parliamentary debate would be political or an opportunity for opposing parties to debate worthy causes.   Political debate is part of a democratic society.

Debating has a format and regulations that should be agreed upon prior to the debate.   The number of members to the team and times for the speakers to present their arguments are all part of the method in managing a debate.   It is a controlled presentation of opposing ideas to a group of listeners who may participate through questions and receiving answers.   Judgment is placed at the end to declare a winner in competitive debate.   In some cases of parliamentary debate legislature may be discussed and proposals for and against regulations presented.

• By   contribution:

A debate may have a number of contributors, but the manner of debating dictates that there is always a motion for or against the topic under debate.   The team may consist of three members to each side or in the case of a ‘turncoat’ debate the whole debate is carried out by one person but there will always be two sides to the argument presented.

Differences between Speech and Debate

People participating;.

The essential difference is a speech is made by one person while a debate involves two sets of people in order to present the argument for and against.   During a speech the audience do not generally take an active role, however they may be invited to ask questions by the speaker.   The questions would be around the topic that was spoken about.   In a debate the audience will participate and question each side of the debating team to expand the decision making process involved in judging the content of the debate.

Content of the speech or debate:

The content of the speech may vary according to the occasion and the information that is being shared.   A debate will have varying topics, but the overall statement of the debate will give rise to two opinions.   Controversial topics make for lively debates. 

Audience participation:

Audience participation differs slightly because of the argumentative structure of a debate as opposed to the presentation of ideas made in a speech. The audience expects to take part in a debate as there are two sides to an argued topic.   A speech is a more passive experience and the delivery of the speech covers one source of opinion that the audience is listening to.

Delivery of the message:

A speech is delivered to an audience by the speaker who has prepared the topic to suit the audience.   It may be educational, political or social in contest.   A debate is delivered by two opposing sides of the debated topic.   Each side gets a chance to deliver their side of the topic.   It is a formal style of arguing a given topic.

The outcome of both a speech and a debate is to enlighten the audience on a particular topic.   A speech presents the information or experience from the speaker’s point of view. While a debate has two points of view.   The audience decides which point of view they support and after a question and answer time they can decide on the point of view they agree with.

Speech Vs. Debate: Comparison Chart

Summary of Speech and Debate : 

The fundamental difference between a speech and a debate is the purpose of the activity.   Although both forms of public speaking deliver a message via a speech making process the speech is geared towards edifying a group through one person’s point of view.   A debate however, presents two sides of an issue and the speakers put across their different point of view.   A debate has a more competitive element as there is a judge deciding on the side of the debate that was most convincing.   Speeches and debates are driven by the audience support and often entertain their listeners.   In our society today, where freedom of speech is encouraged, both the speech and debate have a relevant place in oratory circles.

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Cite APA 7 Wither, C. (2019, June 5). Difference Between Speech and Debate. Difference Between Similar Terms and Objects. http://www.differencebetween.net/language/difference-between-speech-and-debate/. MLA 8 Wither, Christina. "Difference Between Speech and Debate." Difference Between Similar Terms and Objects, 5 June, 2019, http://www.differencebetween.net/language/difference-between-speech-and-debate/.

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10 Examples of Debate Writing Class 11 | Sample Questions

by Meenu Saini | Jul 19, 2023 | General | 0 comments

Are you looking for examples of Debate Writing for Class 11 , no worries, you’ve come to the right place! Our post provides 10 Debate Writing samples based on previous years’ question papers . These examples of Debate Writing can help you understand the format, tone, and language used in such writing skills. We offer detailed explanations for each sample and highlight the important features that make it effective. You can use these examples of Debate Writing as a reference to write your own letters or as a guide to improve your writing skills. So, check out our blog post and learn all about the examples of Debate Writing for Class 11!

Here we go….

Debate Writing 10 Examples based on previous years question papers

Q1. “Academic excellence is the only requirement for a successful career.” Write a debate either for or against the motion. (120 – 150 words) (5)

(Source- CBSE Question paper 2017-18, set-1)

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE IS THE ONLY REQUIREMENT FOR A SUCCESSFUL CAREER.

FOR THE MOTION:

“The beautiful thing about learning is that no one can take it from you.”

Respected judges and my worthy opponents, I stand before you all to speak in favour of the motion: “Academic excellence is the only requirement for a successful career”.

Right to Education is the fundamental right of every child in the age group of six to fourteen years. The education system in the primary years is designed so as to provide basic knowledge of each subject and help the youth of today to choose their subject of interest for its deeper study that can only be provided effectively through universities. It plays a key role in the development of society and nation. Information cannot be converted into knowledge without education. Education makes us capable of interpreting things, among other things.

It helps in raising future leaders by providing them clear understanding and developing decision making abilities. It makes them resourceful and competent. Excellence in academics prepares children for the competition ahead and teaches them to work hard as well.

Moreover, Excellency will ensure admission to the best universities for higher education that provide exposure and a kick start to their career. To conclude, I would say that one who has it’s academic future choices sorted out, has it’s career planned out.

“The goal of education is the advancement of knowledge and the dissemination of truth.”

AGAINST THE MOTION:

Good morning, ladies and gentlemen! My topic for the day is “Academic excellence is the only requirement for a successful career” and I choose to speak against the motion.

“The goal of education is to raise the leaders of tomorrow”. But my question is, How is it that most of the leaders of today happen to be college dropouts? This is because having degrees cannot ensure success. It fails to impart the life skills and polish personality of an individual. They can surely give you an overview of a subject but fail to provide an overview of how the world works. It does not ensure skills and competencies. It tells people what to think instead of how to think and the end results is that, the society now has just robots who have switched their minds off only to believe what is being taught.

One’s attitude towards life is what brings success. Undoubtedly, academic Excellencies can provide you degrees or may even land you at a job, but, your success depends upon how you think, behave, walk, talk and present yourself. It has been rightly said,

“Education produces great employees in the market, not employers”.

Q2. ‘Brain drain is not a bane for a developing country like India.’ Write a debate in 150 – 200 words either for or against the motion. (CBSE)

BRAIN DRAIN IS NOT A BANE FOR A DEVELOPING COUNTRY LIKE INDIA

Respected judges and my worthy opponents, today, I stand before you all to bring into light why Brain drain is not a bane for a developing country like India. Brain drain is a situation in which large numbers of educated and skilled professionals leave their own country to live and work in another country where pay and conditions are better. In a developing country like India, the population is growing at a rate faster than the increase in job opportunities. In such a case, immigration to other countries can be seen to be providing sunshine to dispel the gloom of the unemployed youth. Moreover, income from the emigrated people comes back to the native country as overseas remittances. India is recipient of the highest amount of foreign currency coming in as remittances from NRIs. Reverse brain drain, on the other hand, if given attention, can make it a win-win situation. It is a situation in which such people come back to India after acquiring knowledge, skills and abilities, thus adding value to India. The need of the hour is to encourage reverse brain drain so that India can make use of their tremendous potential, experience and expertise for building a stronger nation. This helps India becoming a developed country very soon and also a global Super Power in the long run.

Respected judges and my worthy opponents, today, I stand before you all to express my views on the topic “Brain drain is not a bane for a developing country like India”. I choose to speak against the motion. Brain drain is referred to a situation in which large numbers of educated and skilled professionals leave their own country to live and work in another country where pay and conditions are better. The majority of migration is from developing to developed countries. This is of growing concern worldwide because of its impact on developing countries. These countries have invested in the education and training of young health professionals. This translates into a loss of considerable resources when these people migrate, with the direct benefit accruing to the recipient states who have not forked out the cost of educating them. It drains a developing country of expertise at a time when it requires it the most. If the number of skilled people leaving is higher than that of people entering (the so-called brain gain), brain drain can become a challenge, especially if it hits the sensitive spots of a nation’s economy in sectors such as science, health care, or technology. It is the need of the hour to be in control of the situation. It can be done by providing better opportunity, security, better standard of living and if need be, tax concessions. It’s time to end brain drain and move to brain gain.

Q3. You are Mukul / Mahima of Alps Public School. Your school has organized a debate on “Social Media and It’s Effects” and you will be participating in your school. Prepare your views against or in favour of the motion. (120 – 150 words) (5)

(Source- CBSE Sample Question Paper 2018-19)

SOCIAL MEDIA AND IT’s EFFECTS

“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 am Mukul/ Mahima and I 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.”

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

It is one of the 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.

Q4. Are celebs responsible for the products they endorse? Taking a cue from the headlines given below and using your own ideas, write a debate for or against the topic. (about 150-200 words)

Amitabh Bachchan steps back from promoting Pepsi after a school girl questions the health impact of the drink. Brief ban on Maggi noodles causes trouble for its celebrity Brand ambassadors. (CBSE Sample Question Paper 2017) Ans.

ARE CELEBS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE PRODUCTS THEY ENDORSE?

Respected judges and my worthy opponents, today, I stand before you all to accentuate why celebrities are responsible for the products they endorse.

Advertising agencies often pick celebrities because their fan following ensures more eyeballs. The celebrities are the present-day gods. They are adored, venerated, and worshipped by many. Given the fan base and the celebrity power of influence, many questions come up. Are they accountable for what the endorser does? Do they at least have the moral responsibility to understand the product better?

It becomes a misleading advertisement if it is found that the product does not have the attributes that the manufacturer professed. And if the brand ambassador has promoted that product and said specifically that the product has those attributes, they are also certainly liable for action.

The brief ban on Maggi noodles had an implication for its celebrity endorsers. Not so long ago, Amitabh Bachchan stepped back from promoting Pepsi after a school girl questioned the health impact of the drink. Celebrities vouch for the performance of a product; they should first use it before endorsing it.

Public figures have an ethical obligation towards those who follow them and this necessitates a framework that guides them to take responsibility for their public image, which includes the products they endorse. Moving in and out of paid contracts might be a solution for the celebrity endorser but it doesn’t erase the impact of their previously branded image.

Respected judges and my worthy opponents, today, I stand before you all to accentuate why celebs should not be held responsible for the products they endorse.

Advertising agencies often pick celebrities because their fan following ensures more eyeballs. No doubt the advertisement will attract you, but it’s unlikely that you will buy the product unless you have seen it and tested it. Buying financial products and real estate is more nuanced and, hence, advertisements alone shouldn’t be your guiding light. Consumers need to be more discerning in such cases.

Take the case of Mahendra Singh Dhoni. He did end his contract with the real estate firm but how would he have known that the company would fail to honour its commitment? If it was so easy to determine the intention of the company then the first to exit the deal would have been the home buyers. Or take the case of celebrity tourism mascots for states. Would you blame a celebrity if the state government ends up doing something ridiculous?

Many celebrities endorse multiple brands and it is not possible for them to use all. Celebs endorse brands for money. Don’t make them responsible for the efficacy of the product. There are government agencies to ensure quality for the products sold in their countries and it is justified to make only those people accountable whose job is to certify products.

Q5. “ONLINE SMART CLASSES ARE THE FUTURE OF EDUCATION STYLE”. Write a debate either for or against the motion. (120 – 150 words). (5)

ONLINE SMART CLASSES ARE THE FUTURE OF EDUCATION STYLE

Honourable judges and worthy listeners,

“If you are so old minded and think that computers will be distracting children from studies, with a sincere sorry for you, let me tell you that the young generation has gone a long way with computers!”

Thus, I am here to talk about the endless possibilities of computer and internet based teaching methods.

When most parents think of learning from computers, socializing websites like facebook appear before their eyes. It is the biggest cyber tragedy. There are definitely a large number of sites beyond just facebook.

Udemy, Coursera, Khan academy, Byju’s teaching app, the list of online teaching platforms is endless and ever growing. There are millions of students and teachers who use these websites and apps for their exam-preparation. They are mostly free and it is what makes one turn away from traditional paper-guides. With a smartphone in every hand, city and village alike, these online libraries are within everyone’s reach.

Google has already replaced the word Guru to become the greatest knowledge-provider.

With seven hundred billion population and six hundred trees, it is the need of the century to go paperless. In this context you can find no better solution than eLearning.

Rather than living the life of a consumer, let’s be contributors. Instead of buying paper books, let’s buy eBooks. Instead of collecting a thousand books in our shelves, let’s convert our phones or computers into virtual libraries and learn.

Good morning, ladies and gentlemen! My topic for the day is “Online Classes are the Future of Education Style” and I choose to speak against the motion.

Online learning or e-learning refers to learning conducted via electronic media, typically on the Internet. There is no face-to-face interaction between the teacher and the student. It decreases the scope of adjusting and modifying the language or the concept according to various audiences. Moreover, humans are known to be social animals and are thus, more interested in direct tuition than virtual tuition.

There is lack of proper guidance and self-assessment mechanisms. Not only this, it would also reduce employment among teachers.

Since it involves only brain work and not physical work, they tend to get lethargic resulting in altered physiology. Also, it leads to lack of discipline. Attending a school makes one have a time schedule in a day. This helps them learn some good habits like, bathing, breakfast, going to bed at the right time etc. Physical school help children adopt a discipline.

Not to forget the excellent interactions involved in physical learning. People tend to make friends who support them and mentors who guide them. Thus, no matter how fast technological developments are taking place, the traditional way of learning should not be displaced.

Q6. ‘Homes for the aged is a necessity in India ‘. Write a debate in 120- 150 words either for or against the motion. You are Shivam/ Shivani.

(CBSE Sample Question Paper 2018)

HOMES FOR THE AGED IS A NECESSITY IN INDIA

Old age is often referred to as the crown of life, as it is our play’s last act. Honourable judges, teachers and my worthy opponents, I thank you all for providing me the opportunity to highlight the importance of Old Age Homes in India. An old age home is a place, a home for old people who have no one to look after them or those whose children have left them on the streets. The place, of course, is like home where the inmates get all the facilities for a routine living, like food, clothing, medicine and shelter. Old age brings with it physical weakness. In case they are alone at home while you’re away, it would be almost impossible to tackle any medical emergency. These centres will take care of them and cater to all such emergencies Also, burglars usually attempt to break into a house where a lonely aged person lives, murder them without hesitating and loot the house. That’s why it is safer to keep your parents in a senior-care-home when you have to stay away from them for your earning and are unable to keep them there with you. Thus, it is crucial to have Old age homes in the country because old age needs so little but needs that little very much. Nothing is more important than a smile that has struggled through tears and many years.

Good morning, ladies and gentlemen! My topic for the day is “Home for the aged is a necessity in India” and I choose to speak against the motion.

There is nothing fundamentally wrong with the whole idea of Old age homes, but just like there are two sides of the same coin, it also has some disadvantages and problems associated to it. Services attract costs. Better the services, higher the costs. Most of the aged population are pensioners or dependent on children which makes it difficult for them to afford good quality care. There is lack of privacy too. The environment is impersonal, which may give rise to feeling of loneliness, which may further lead to depression. They lose the right to decide what to eat and cannot spend time with grandchildren. Also, there have been many incidents of neglect and poor treatment.

They are those people who made us capable and created a world for us. How can we leave them in the cold, that too when they require the warmth of our love the most? Our parents have sacrificed so much for us without asking for anything in return. This makes it our sole responsibility to take care of them when they need it the most, because, in the end, the ultimate luxury is being at home and able to relax with the family.

Q7. You are a student of Class 10, who is currently preparing for the board exams. In the newspaper, you saw an advertisement for a debate competition held by the newspaper on the topic “Should schools conduct Pre Board Exams?”. You wish to present your views on the topic. Write a debate on the given topic in 150-200 words, which is to be submitted to the editor of the local daily. Ans.

Should schools conduct Pre Board Exams?

For the motion: For the students of classes 10 and 12, Board exams are crucial examinations, on which their future depends. In 99 percent of the jobs, they are required to inform the employers how much they scored in 10th and 12th. Therefore, these examinations are important not just for admissions, but to secure lucrative jobs and careers.

Pre Board Examinations, as the name suggests, are held before the Board examinations. These examinations help students prepare for the Boards by asking slightly more tricky questions and having a stricter marking scheme. Due to the importance of these exams and the young, delicate age of the students, students end up having a lot of pressure and expectations on their shoulders. Some students doubt whether they are good enough or not. Some students are not sure of the type of questions that would be asked in the Boards.

Therefore, Pre Board Examinations help in building up the confidence of the students and also makes them aware of how much more hard work they need to put in order to achieve the desired marks in the Board examinations.

Against the motion: Board examinations are crucial exams for the students of classes 10 and 12. The score we get in our Boards secure admission in our dream college, and lucrative jobs or careers. Due to the high importance of these examinations, students end up having a lot of stress on themselves.

Pre Board Examinations, as the name suggests, are held before the Board examinations. These examinations help us prepare for the Boards by asking slightly trickier questions and having a stricter marking scheme. Despite its motive being to prepare the students for the main exam, in many cases, it brings down the self-esteem of students. Students end up doubting and hating themselves, as they believe that if they cannot get appreciable marks in Pre Boards, they cannot get a high score on the main exam. They feel like this is the end of the world, and they would not be able to achieve their dreams. Multiple failures may result in the student giving up on their studies, and sometimes, their life.

Therefore, Pre Board Examinations sometimes put more pressure on the student instead of helping in building up their confidence.

Q8. You are a NEET aspirant. Your institution is organising a debate competition on the topic “Are entrance exams advantageous?”. You wish to present your views on the topic. Write a debate on the given topic in 150-200 words. Ans.

Are entrance exams advantageous?

For the motion: Good morning teachers, judges and my dear friends. In this debate competition, I am going to speak for the motion for the topic “Are entrance exams advantageous?”.

As we all know, after 12th graders complete their Board examinations, students apply for admissions in colleges of their choice. Due to an increase in the student body with many students having excellent percentages in exams, and potential to be great, selecting students had become quite difficult. Also, one cannot determine if a student is good enough for a specific course by just seeing the Boards results. This is how entrance exams came to being.

Therefore, entrance exams help in picking out the students who have the highest potential for the particular course. Since these exams are nationwide, participants can also see where they stand and how much more they need to improve. Therefore, entrance exams also give a reality check. It is true that the entrance exams impose a lot of pressure on young adults. However, the stress and the fear of failing and not achieving their dreams drives them to perform well in the entrance exams.

Against the motion:

Good morning teachers, judges and my dear friends. In this debate competition, I am going to speak against the motion for the topic “Are entrance exams advantageous?”.

As we all know, after 12th graders complete their Board examinations, students apply for admissions in colleges of their choice. Due to an increase in the student body, selecting students has become quite difficult. Also, one cannot determine if a student is good enough for a specific course by just seeing the Boards results. This is how entrance exams came to being.

Therefore, students have to undergo the pressure of not only Pre Board and Board examinations, but also Entrance examinations. Students have to prepare for two very different examinations in a very short time. Students tend to neglect their basic requirements like food, sleep and health. Moreover, in case a student fails in an entrance exam, they feel hopeless as they cannot get admission to any college without clearing their entrance exam. Students may also feel burnt out by giving so many exams.

So, I conclude by saying that although the aim of the entrance exams is justified, it does not take into account the amount of pressure the students will have on them. Hence, entrance exams are disadvantageous.

Q9. Your school is organising a debate event on the topic “Should Video Games be Banned?”. Write a debate on the given topic, presenting your views in 150-200 words. Ans.

Should Video Games be Banned?

For the motion: Good morning respected Principal, teachers and my dear friends. In this debate competition, I am going to speak for the motion for the topic “Should Video Games be Banned?”.

Video games are games which can be played using electronic gadgets like the controllers, laptop, mobile, etc. These were made purely for the purpose of entertainment and recreation. Like movies, shows and books, video games have a wide range of different genres. Similarly, there are some video games which are not suitable for younger audiences. However, due to increasing popularity and attractive graphics, young children become attached to violent games.

This has resulted in children becoming more violent and prone to angry outbursts. These games display blood and murder, things that not only young children, but teens and adults alike should maintain a good distance from. It promotes anti-social and borderline personalities. It also sows the seed of addiction, resulting in people disengaging from the rest of the world, including family and friends.

Therefore, for the proper functioning of the society and to ensure the well-being of our fellow human beings, I would like to conclude by saying that video games should be banned.

Against the motion: Good morning respected Principal, teachers and my dear friends. In this debate competition, I am going to speak against the motion for the topic “Should Video Games be Banned?”.

As we all know and are experiencing, we have a lot of workload on us. As a solution, people came up with books, shows and movies. Similarly, we have one more method of recreation and entertaining purposes – Video games.

Video games show a great story with graphics and animation. It enables a person to interact as a character in the story. It comes in different genres. There are books and movies which are not suitable for young children and teenagers. We can see a similar situation in video games. Such games result in a child developing negative traits. However, this is not seen in all people. No matter if a person is an adult or not, if a person is being influenced by it negatively, then a person is not suitable enough to play a game of that genre.

Therefore, I would like to conclude by saying that video games should not be banned. Parents or guardians need to monitor what their child is playing, like how they monitor what their child is watching.

Q10. You, a student of class 10th, were given 10 days to think over the topic “Beauty Over Brains”, for which the teacher will hold a debate in class. Present your views in 150-200 words. Ans.

Beauty Over Brains

For the motion: Good morning dear teacher and my fellow classmates. Today, I am going to speak for the motion for the topic “Beauty Over Brains”.

There are many good qualities in this world that one can possess, like patience, humility, bravery, kindness etc. Two of these qualities are – Beauty and Intelligence.

Beauty is a quality which enables a person to have an attractive appearance. Intelligence, also commonly known as Brains, is a quality which enables a person to gain more knowledge in a short amount of time and to apply it in a unique and smart way. While both the qualities are important in their own ways, I believe Beauty to be more important than Brains.

Teenagers undergo a lot of physical and hormonal changes, leading to acne, body dysmorphia, obesity or skinny appearance, etc. No matter how intelligent they are, they end up being bullied and teased for their imperfections. An ugly person cannot make any friends. They are so insecure of their appearance that they cannot celebrate their intelligence. Good looks give confidence.

Therefore, I believe that Beauty over Brains is a correct saying.

Against the motion: Good morning dear teacher and my fellow classmates. Today, I am going to speak for the motion against the topic “Beauty Over Brains”.

Beauty is a quality which enables a person to have an attractive appearance. Intelligence, also commonly known as Brains, is a quality which enables a person to gain more knowledge in a short amount of time and to apply it in a unique and smart way. While both the qualities are important in their own ways, I believe Brains to be more important than Beauty.

While Beauty enables a person to be more attractive and self-confident, having no Brains makes them naive and vulnerable. Without Brains, it is practically impossible to live in today’s society. The world can be a cruel and tough place to be in, and Beauty is a quality which does not save us from trouble. When a person has Brains, no matter how beautiful they are, they know the path to success and how they need to interact with others.

Therefore, I would like to conclude by saying that Brains is naturally superior to Beauty in many ways.

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Americans love free speech, survey finds − until they realize everyone else has it, too

Senior Advisor to the Chancellor, Head of Vanderbilt's Project on Unity and American Democracy, and Co-Director of Vanderbilt Poll, Vanderbilt University

Research Professor of Political Science and Executive Director of The Future of Free Speech, Vanderbilt University

Disclosure statement

The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

Vanderbilt University provides funding as a founding partner of The Conversation US.

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Americans’ views on free speech change directions every so often. One of those times was during the protests at U.S. universities about the Israel-Hamas war. As scholars of free speech and public opinion , we set out to find out what happened and why.

The Supreme Court itself, as recently as 1989, has declared that the “bedrock principle” of the First Amendment is that “ the government may not prohibit the expression of an idea simply because society finds the idea itself offensive or disagreeable.”

For years, conservative politicians and commentators have warned that college campuses are not strong enough protectors of free speech. But as demonstrations erupted, these same people complained that the protests were filled with antisemitic hate speech . Leading conservatives declared the demonstrations should be banned and halted, by force if necessary.

Liberals executed a similar reversal. Many of them have supported increased regulation of hate speech against minority groups. But during the campus protests, liberals cautioned that crackdowns by university administrators, state officials and the police violated protestors’ free speech rights.

As researchers at Vanderbilt University’s Project on Unity and American Democracy and The Future of Free Speech , respectively, we sought to determine where Americans stand. We drew inspiration from a poll done in November 1939 in which 3,500 Americans answered questions about free speech. In June 2024, we asked 1,000 Americans the identical questions.

When an abstract concept gets more concrete

We found that the vast majority of Americans – both then and now – agree that democracy requires freedom of speech. That’s in the abstract.

When the questions get more concrete, though, their support wanes.

Only about half of the respondents in both the 1939 and 2024 polls agreed that anybody in America should be allowed to speak on any subject at any time. The rest believed some speech – or certain subjects or speakers – should be prohibited.

This pattern is not unique to Americans. A 2021 survey in 33 countries by The Future of Free Speech , a nonpartisan think tank based at Vanderbilt, similarly found high levels of support for free speech in the abstract across all countries but lower support across the board for specific speech that was offensive to minority groups or religious beliefs.

We dug deeper in surveys in March and June 2024, asking which subjects or speakers should be banned. We thought the public’s appetite for free speech might have weakened amid the campus turmoil. We found the opposite.

When asked whether seven people with widely varied viewpoints should be allowed to speak, the share of people who said “Yes” rose for each one between March and June. Some of the differences were within the surveys’ margins of error, but it’s nevertheless noteworthy that all of them shifted in the same direction.

While showing a slightly increased appetite for free speech, these polls still fit with the overall contradiction: Large majorities of Americans passionately uphold free speech as a cornerstone of democracy. But fewer of them are supportive of free speech when faced with specific controversial speakers or topics.

The First Amendment is not an a la carte menu

Our surveys found that the public has a nuanced view of free speech. For instance, in our June 2024 survey we added some additional categories of potential speakers to the list we had asked about in March. More respondents were comfortable with a pro-Palestinian speaker than a leader of Hamas and with a scientist who believes that IQ varies by race rather than an outright white supremacist.

This pattern suggests that the public distinguishes between extreme and more moderate positions and is less tolerant of the rights of those with more extreme views.

This shift runs against the purpose of the First Amendment, which was intended to protect unpopular speech . The amendment very specifically was not intended to apply only to certain speakers or viewpoints.

Ours is not the only survey to find that many people don’t fully appreciate the logic and principles behind free speech.

In 2020, a Knight Foundation poll found that members of both political parties oppose speech that goes against their values or beliefs .

Later polls, including those conducted by other organizations, found more specifics: For instance, Democrats were more likely to support censorship of racist hate speech or vaccine misinformation.

And Republicans opposed drag shows and kneeling during the playing of the national anthem .

A February 2022 national poll commissioned by The New York Times and Siena College found that 30% of Americans believed that “ sometimes you have to shut down speech that is anti-democratic, bigoted, or simply untrue.”

A return to fundamentals

With the 2024 election looming and polarization increasing among Americans, some people may want only those who agree with them to be allowed to speak.

But a true commitment to the fundamental principles of free speech requires people to allow space for controversial and even offensive viewpoints to be aired.

History reveals that censorship of hateful ideas is often a cure that is worse than the disease , deepening social divides. James Madison, a key drafter of both the U.S. Constitution and the First Amendment, wrote in 1800:

“ Some degree of abuse is inseparable from the proper use of every thing … it is better to leave a few of its noxious branches, to their luxuriant growth, than by pruning them away, to injure the vigor of those yielding the proper fruits.”

As the founders knew, a respect for diverse viewpoints and the ability to express those views – good, bad and harmful alike – in the public sphere are essential to a healthy democracy.

• Freedom of speech
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• Hate speech
• First Amendment
• US Constitution
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• Free expression
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• freedom of speech on campus
• James Madison
• Vaccine misinformation
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Election 2024: Trump and Harris say they've agreed to Sept. 10 debate

Coverage on this live blog has ended. For the latest news, click here.

What to watch on the campaign trail today

• Former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris have both confirmed that they will attend the previously scheduled Sept. 10 debate hosted by ABC.
• Trump told reporters at a news conference that he has agreed to three debates next month hosted by Fox, NBC and ABC. He said CBS will also host a debate between the vice presidential candidates. Harris signaled openness to additional debates, saying she's "happy to have that conversation."
• Harris and her running mate , Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, participated in a United Auto Workers event in Michigan as part of their efforts to rally support among union workers .

From a ‘wake’ to ‘Mardi Gras’: With Harris, the Democratic convention is a hot ticket

Natasha Korecki

Reporting from Chicago

Energy is exploding around the Democratic National Convention, with tickets, venues and hotel rooms spiking in demand as Harris prepares to become the first Black and Asian American woman to formally accept a major-party nomination.

Credentials are at a premium. Events are growing in size and number. Some corporate clients are sending more people, while others are extending their stays.

Since Harris moved to the top of the Democratic ballot, a deluge of new requests has flooded in for entry into the main event space at the United Center and surrounding bashes, people close to the convention and event-planning say.

Read the full story here.

Special counsel Jack Smith asks judge to delay next steps in Trump election interference case

Zoë Richards

Special counsel Jack Smith is asking the judge overseeing Trump 's federal election interference case for more time to propose a timetable on future proceedings after the  Supreme Court upended  the case with last month’s immunity ruling.

In a filing tonight, Smith’s office asked U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan to allow the parties until Aug. 30 to propose next steps. If the request is granted, prosecutors would have three more weeks to consult with other parts of the Justice Department on a way forward in a case that focuses on Trump’s efforts to overturn the 2020 election results.

“Although those consultations are well underway, the Government has not finalized its position on the most appropriate schedule for the parties to brief issues related to the decision,” prosecutors wrote. “The Government therefore respectfully requests additional time to provide the Court with an informed proposal regarding the schedule for pretrial proceedings moving forward.”

Trump compares his Jan. 6 crowd to the audience for MLK’s ‘I Have a Dream’ speech

Jonathan Allen

Reporting from Palm Beach, Fla.

Trump has long boasted about crowd sizes at his rallies, but today he used an unexpected comparison making the case that he is the biggest draw: Martin Luther King Jr.

“Nobody has spoken to crowds bigger than me,” Trump said at his  news conference  at Mar-a-Lago. “If you look at Martin Luther King, when he did his speech, his great speech, and you look at ours, same real estate, same everything, same number of people.”

Trump was responding to a question about whether he thought the end of his term could be considered a peaceful transfer of power, even though it was marked by the Jan. 6 insurrection.

First to NBC News: Harris brings on a new campaign fundraising co-chair

As money continues to gush into the Harris campaign, a major fundraiser who has a longtime relationship with the vice president and is known as a prodigious rainmaker has come on board as the campaign's new fundraising co-chair.

Kristin Bertolina Faust is already working out of the campaign headquarters in Wilmington, Delaware, at least some of the time, according to people familiar with the move. She handled fundraising for Harris in her 2019 presidential campaign and has known her for 14 years.

Widely respected in Democratic circles, Bertolina Faust is often lauded for her longtime work in California, acting as Gov. Gavin Newsom’s top fundraiser and having been campaign manager for Sen. Alex Padilla. Bertolina Faust was  highlighted this week  in Capitol Weekly, a Sacramento publication, as Newsom’s “top overall rainmaker.”

She will work with fellow co-chair Rufus Gifford and collaborate with Chris Korge, who is national fundraising chair for the Harris Victory Fund, as well as finance co-directors Michael Pratt and Colleen Coffey.

The campaign also brought on Stephanie Daily Smith as a senior adviser to the finance team and Jen Liu as a senior adviser.

Harris' campaign is raising money at a staggering pace. It reported bringing in $310 million last month, the bulk of which came in the days Harris shifted into the top spot after Biden announced he would step aside.

This weekend, Harris is headed to  The Fairmont in San Francisco  for a high-dollar fundraiser. The event is already sold out, said a person familiar with the planning.

RFK Jr.’s incredible disappearing campaign

Katherine Koretski

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s independent presidential campaign is disappearing — both on the trail and in the polls.

Kennedy’s last public event was in Freeport, Maine, on July 9. He has since spoken virtually and appeared at a cryptocurrency conference and events put on by others, but he hasn’t been stumping on the campaign trail. (He did speak in person with reporters the day Biden dropped out of the race.) And it has been months since his running mate, Nicole Shanahan, has had a public event on the campaign trail.

Kennedy’s public poll numbers are dropping, from around 9% or 10% in national surveys before Biden dropped out to about half that level now. His last financial report showed the campaign carrying debt equal to more than half of the $5.6 million it had in the bank. On a media call last week, Kennedy said Democrats and Republicans colluded to make it “insurmountable” for an independent to get on the ballot in all 50 states — which he and his campaign had previously talked about as a matter of when, not if.

GOP Rep. Dan Newhouse survives another primary after voting to impeach Trump. He still has a fight ahead.

Andrea Smith

Wil Courtney

Rep. Dan Newhouse, R-Wash., has survived another Trump-endorsed primary challenge in his bid for re-election, qualifying for November’s general election. But his path to victory isn’t a given yet: In November, he will face fellow Republican Jerrod Sessler, whom Trump endorsed in April, in a GOP-versus-GOP clash.

Sessler, a former NASCAR driver and Navy veteran, got the most votes in the August primary, having won 31% when The Associated Press called the race today. Newhouse came in second, at nearly 25%, with more mail ballots still to count.

Newhouse is one of just two House Republicans left who voted to impeach Trump following the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol. If Sessler wins the November election with Trump’s support, it would drive that number down again.

Trump says he 'went down' in a helicopter with Willie Brown

Rebecca Shabad

Trump said in his hourlong news conference at Mar-a-Lago that he knows former San Francisco Mayor Willie Brown "very well."

"In fact, I went down in a helicopter with him. We thought maybe this is the end. We were in a helicopter going to a certain location together, and there was an emergency landing. This was not a pleasant landing, and Willie was, he was a little concerned," Trump said.

In an interview with the San Francisco Chronicle after the news conference, Brown said no such thing happened.

“You would have known if I had gone down on a helicopter with Trump,” Brown said, according to the newspaper. “I’ve never been on a helicopter with Trump.”

Trump added today that Brown told him "terrible things about" Harris and was "not a fan of hers." Brown dated Harris years ago in San Francisco.

Brown disputed that, as well.

 “No, not accurate at all,” he told the Chronicle.

Harris aims to schedule a sit-down media interview before September

Megan Shannon

Harris, who has not done a sit-down interview with a news organization since she launched her presidential campaign, said today that she's looking to get one on the books before September.

“I’ve talked to my team. I want us to get an interview scheduled before the end of the month,” Harris told reporters on the tarmac in Michigan before she headed to Arizona.

During his news conference at Mar-a-Lago today, Trump criticized Harris for not sitting for an interview since she rocketed to the top of the Democratic ticket.

"She hasn't done an interview. She can't do an interview. She's barely competent," Trump said, repeating his attacks on Harris' intelligence.

Harris on additional Trump debates: 'Happy to have that conversation'

Tara Prindiville

Logan Schiciano Logan Schiciano is the White House Unit intern for NBC News.

Harris said today she was “happy to have that conversation” when she was asked about additional debates with Trump beyond the one on Sept. 10.

At a news conference earlier today, Trump proposed two other debates for next month.

After she repeated an earlier comment that she looked forward to debating Trump on Sept. 10, Harris cast doubt on whether he would follow through.

“Well, I’m glad that he’s finally agreed to a debate on Sept. 10. I’m looking forward to it. Hope he shows up," Harris told reporters on the tarmac in Michigan.

Biden says he's confident Harris will win Trump debate

Dareh Gregorian

A reporter asked Biden whether he's "confident" about Harris' debating Trump.

"Am I confident she'll win?" Biden responded as he was heading onto Air Force One to travel to Delaware to meet with campaign staffers. "Yes, I am," he said, giving a thumb's up.

"As long as he keeps talking," Biden added, referring to Trump.

His own lackluster debate performance against Trump in June and the subsequent fallout helped lead to his decision to withdraw from the race.

Trump, looking to reassert himself in 2024 race, dares Harris on debates and interviews

Yamiche Alcindor

Monica Alba

Amanda Terkel Politics Managing Editor

Trump held his first news conference in more than a year today, boasting of his willingness to talk to the media and challenging Harris to  more debates .

“She can’t do an interview,” Trump said of Harris, speaking to reporters at his Mar-a-Lago resort. “She’s barely competent.”

“She’s not smart enough to do a news conference,” he added.

Harris-Walz campaign tops press release on Trump remarks with a classic @dril tweet

Ryan J. Reilly

The extremely online Harris-Walz campaign topped off a news release responding to Trump's Mar-a-Lago remarks today with a screenshot of a classic tweet from @dril , a top internet poster known for absurdist humor and one of the greatest "weird Twitter" accounts known to man .

"and another thing: im not mad. please dont put in the newspaper that i got mad," the tweet reads.

That 2014 @drill tweet is among the account's best-known tweets. Others include a 2011 tweet about a person insisting they are not "owned," in internet parlance, even as they "slowly shrink and transform into a corn cob."

The Harris campaign release was titled "Donald Trump’s Very Good, Very Normal Press Conference," subtitled "Split Screen: Joy and Freedom vs. Whatever the Hell That Was."

"Donald Trump took a break from taking a break to put on some pants and host a p̶r̶e̶s̶s̶ ̶c̶o̶n̶f̶e̶r̶e̶n̶c̶e̶ public meltdown," the release read.

The rest of the release fact-checked several false statements Trump made throughout the lengthy press conference.

Harris says she's 'looking forward' to debating Trump in September

Shaquille Brewster

Harris said this afternoon that she's "looking forward" to debating Trump next month.

“I am looking forward to debating Donald Trump, and we have a date of Sept. 10," she said in response to a question from NBC News. "I hear he’s finally committed to it, and I’m looking forward to it."

Harris didn't respond when asked about the two other proposed presidential debates for September. Trump said today at his news conference that he would be open to debating Harris three times next month.

Harris praises union workers at United Auto Workers event

Harris spoke before a crowd of supporters at a UAW campaign event in Detroit this afternoon.

Calling them "sisters and brothers," she thanked the crowd for supporting her campaign and praised the unity of labor unions, saying: "We believe in the collective. We're not falling for these folks who are trying to divide us, trying to pull us apart."

Harris campaign releases new ad about her biography

Katharine Wilson

The Harris campaign released an ad today highlighting her biography and political career.

"When you're raised by an immigrant mother, you learn what's possible with determination," the ad says.

The 60-second spot shows Harris' rise to the vice presidency from her early days as a McDonald's employee to a prosecutor in San Francisco, California attorney general and U.S. senator.

The ad was pushed out on Harris' X account today during Trump's news conference at Mar-a-Lago .

Trump says Federal Reserve has 'gotten it wrong a lot'

Steve Kopack

Trump said that the Federal Reserve has "sort of gotten it wrong a lot" and that Fed Chair Jerome Powell has tended to be "a little bit too early and a little bit too late" in adjusting monetary policy.

Trump added that he "used to have it out with" Powell and indicated that he would like the power to influence interest rates at the independent central bank if he wins the election in November.

It's not the first time Trump has shared this view on the Fed. He recently told Bloomberg News that he would allow Powell to finish his term, which ends in 2026.

In July, Powell said that “we never use our tools to support or oppose a political party, a politician or any political outcome.”

ABC News says Harris is confirmed for Sept. 10 debate

Elleiana Green Elleiana Green is a Digital Politics intern with NBC News

Alexandra Marquez

Alana Satlin

A spokesperson for ABC News said Harris has confirmed that she will attend the Sept. 10 debate with Trump.

Republican N.M. Senate candidate stakes out abortion stance in new ad: 'Safe, legal and rare'

Katherine Doyle

Republican New Mexico Senate candidate Nella Domenici is targeting suburban women with a new ad starting this week focused on her abortion stance.

The 30-second spot , first reported by NBC News, highlights Domenici’s position against abortion bans while aiming to reduce unintended pregnancy and offer support for women. The ad is called "Trusted."

“New Mexico has already decided its policy — I oppose any federal ban,” Domenici says in the spot. “Abortion should be safe, legal and rare. Women should be trusted, respected, and babies should be loved and wanted.”

Domenici’s position — against an absolutist stance and echoing a phrase first used by Bill Clinton — hints at what could be a different approach for Republicans, who last month adopted a party platform that abandoned a decadeslong push for a federal ban. “We need to do a much, much better job of helping women,” she says in the ad. An overlay reads: “Abortion is legal and accessible in New Mexico.”

The new ad series, which is backed by a six-figure media buy, is part of a larger multimillion-dollar advertising effort paid for by the National Republican Senatorial Committee. It starts this week on streaming and digital platforms, and it goes up on broadcast television next week.

Domenici is running to unseat Martin Heinrich, a Democrat elected in 2012, who last week launched an attack ad against her. Once a swing state, New Mexico has drifted blue in the last 20 years. But Heinrich’s own six-figure buy appears to suggest he thinks the race is competitive. 

Domenici, the former chief financial officer of Bridgewater Associates and daughter of the late Sen. Pete Domenici, R-N.M, has reported fundraising totals that show her outraising Heinrich in the first and second quarters of this year. Internal polling by Domenici's campaign shows her running 3 percentage points behind Heinrich, inside a margin of error of +/-4.0%. 

The poll was conducted June 19-24, before Biden’s halting debate performance against Trump and his decision to step aside from the presidential race. Biden won the state by 11 percentage points in 2020. 

Trump ends his press conference

Trump has concluded the press conference at Mar-a-Lago. He answered questions from media members in the audience for just over an hour.

Trump says any Jewish person who doesn't vote for him should have their 'head examined'

Annemarie Bonner

Trump said that any Jewish person who votes for Vice President Kamala Harris instead of him should "have their head examined" during his remarks at Mar-a-Lago.

"She's been very, very bad to Israel, and she's been very bad and disrespectful to Jewish people," he said. "Anybody that votes for them, if you're Jewish or if you love Israel, you have to have your head examined."

This falls in line with previous comments Trump has made claiming that Harris does not like Jewish people, while her husband, second gentleman Doug Emhoff, is Jewish.

Trump says he could have 'done things' to Hillary Clinton 'that would have made your head spin'

In his remarks at Mar-a-Lago, Trump started talking about former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.

"You know, with Hillary Clinton, I could have done things to her that would have made your head spin. I thought it was a very bad thing. Take the wife of a president of the United States and put her in jail," he said.

Trump said he was "very protective" of Hillary Clinton and falsely suggested that he would tamp down chants by his supporters to have her locked up.

"I was very protective of her. Nobody would understand that," Trump said. "But I was, I think, my people understand it. They used to say, 'Lock her up, lock her up,' and I'd say just relax, please. We won the election."

Trump says Harris isn't 'smart enough' to hold a news conference

Trump said Harris won't hold a news conference because she isn't "smart enough."

Trump, who has ramped up attacks on Harris' gender and race since she replaced Biden in the race for president, spent a lot of the news conference talking about Harris' intelligence.

"She doesn’t know how to do a news conference. She’s not smart enough to do a news conference, and I’m sorry. We need smart people to lead this country."

Trump: Harris had 'some good choices'

Trump referred to Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro as a "terrible guy."

"He's not very popular with anybody. I think that this, this election, maybe is better than Josh Shapiro would have been, but I think, other than Josh Shapiro, I think she had some good choices, but Josh Shapiro is not one of them," he said. "He's caused a lot of damage with a lot of people, and I don't think he would have been better. I think he would have been maybe the equivalent, maybe not as good. But they had some people that they were looking at that were good, far superior to her."

Trump says abortion will only be a ‘small issue’ in the general election

Trump said abortion has become “much less of an issue” in the 2024 campaign and would be a “very small issue” in the general election.

Trump incorrectly says no one was killed on Jan. 6, complains about media coverage of his crowd that day

Ginger Gibson Senior Washington Editor

Trump defended Jan. 6 defendants, saying they are being treated harshly. He also claimed, incorrectly, that "nobody was killed on Jan. 6."

Trump supporter Ashli Babbitt died after being shot by police while trying to enter a room connected to the House chamber. USCP Officer Brian Sicknick died after collapsing after defending the Capitol, a death later attributed to a stroke and ruled as in the line of duty by Capitol Police. Additionally, four police officers committed suicide after defending the Capitol, two Trump supporters outside the building had heart attacks and one died of an accidental overdose.

Trump, who has long complained that the press doesn't fairly portray the size of crowds at his campaign rallies, grumbled that the coverage of Jan. 6 doesn't note how large the crowd was when he spoke that day.

(After he told those assembled that he would join them in marching to the Capitol, the crowd moved down the street, and a mob attacked the building and violently assaulted police who were standing guard in a bid to stop certification of Trump's election defeat.)

Trump said during this press conference that the crowd he addressed that day on the Ellipse, an area in front of the White House, was "the biggest crowd I've ever spoken to."

Trump says photos from Jan. 6 don't accurately show how large the crowd was, comparing it to the crowd that attended Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech.

"All you see is the picture of a small number of people, relatively, going to the Capitol, but you never see the picture of the crowd," Trump said.

Inside Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort before his press conference

A podium is set up for the former president Donald to speak at his Florida resort.

Trump says he's agreed to three debates against Harris

Garrett Haake

Trump said in remarks to the press at Mar-a-Lago that his campaign has agreed to a presidential debate on Fox News on Sept. 4, one with NBC News on Sept. 10 and one with ABC News on Sept. 25.

The campaign later clarified that the ABC debate would be on Sept. 10 as previously scheduled and the NBC one would take place on Sept. 25.

In response to a question, Trump said his campaign would like to participate in three debates, though it was unclear if he was including the vice presidential debate, which he said will be hosted by CBS News.

NBC News has reached out to the Harris campaign, NBC, CBS and ABC.

Walz's DUI came up during the VP vetting process

Maura Barrett

Since he was selected as Harris' running mate, Walz' drunk driving arrest in 1995 has resurfaced. The incident wasn't a surprise to campaign officials, a source familiar with the matter said.

When former Labor Secretary Marty Walsh, a member of the vetting committee, asked Walz about the details of his drunk driving arrest in 1995, the governor said he had no excuses and had learned from the experience, and he hadn't drunk in decades.  

The Star Tribune reported during Walz's first run for governor that he said the incident was his gut-check moment, and instead of alcohol he opts for Diet Mountain Dew (a well-known fun fact about him in Minnesota).

The source  shot down a report  that his openness about the incident “vaulted him to the top” of the VP list, but said that it did add to the appeal of picking him. 

Bidens to meet with former campaign staff

President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden will greet his former campaign staff members this evening to “show their gratitude for all their hard work” and to thank them in advance for their dedication to the Harris-Walz operation, a source familiar with the plans said. 

The Bidens felt it was personally important for them to meet with aides in Wilmington, Delware, in person to express their appreciation, the source said. The gathering, which is closed to the news media, will take place at an event site and not at the now-Harris headquarters. 

The campaign expects about 200 staffers to attend and they will be treated to food and drinks, including Biden’s signature dessert: ice cream. 

The Bidens wanted to be able to find a time to thank the aides who uprooted their lives to move to Delaware and were so committed to seeing him re-elected, given how quickly everything has changed since the president’s decision to exit the 2024 race less than three week ago. 

They will also have the opportunity to tell the campaign staff that there’s a lot of work to do in the months ahead and that they hope to be helpful leading up to the election, the source said. 

The president and the first lady plan to spend a few hours with aides and advisers before heading to their beach house in Rehoboth, Delaware, for the weekend. 

Democratic vets in Congress defend Walz's military record

Adam Edelman

Democratic veterans in the House rushed to Walz’s defense today — amid attacks from Republicans on the Minnesota governor 's military record — and hit Trump over his lack of military service .

Republicans, including JD Vance, have attacked Walz in recent days over his military service.

Rep. Jason Crow, D-Colo., who did multiple tours in Iraq and Afghanistan as a U.S. Army Ranger, said Walz, who served in the National Guard for 24 years, had a “long and honorable service record."

Walz officially retired from the Minnesota National Guard in May 2005. His unit was alerted about a deployment to Iraq in July, and the unit deployed there in October. Walz filed to run for Congress in January 2005 with paperwork that was certified by the Federal Election Commission the next month.

“Contrast all of that with these old and tired attacks by the other side,” Crow said. “They just don’t have anything. They have no ideas. They have no options, but to try to do one of the worst things you can do in America: That is attack a veteran for their service. It’s old. It’s tired.”

“America is just not going to put up with it. And we’re not going to put up with it,” Crow said. “It’s not OK.”

Rep. Jake Auchincloss, D-Mass., who commanded troops in Afghanistan, hit Trump over having received a draft deferment in 1968 for bone spurs in his heels — allowing him to avoid serving during the Vietnam War.

“If I were Donald Trump, with five deferments from Vietnam … I would be very cautious about opening the door to attacks on those who served honorably,” Auchincloss said.

“They’re Swift-boating him,” he added — referring to the 2004 effort by Republicans who attacked then-Democratic presidential nominee John Kerry’s record as a Navy officer in Vietnam. “We’re just not going to stand for it.”

“I thank JD Vance for his service, but his political career and his political positions are antithetical to the values of veterans, and Donald Trump has a long track record of disparaging veterans. He called those who gave their last full measure of devotion losers .”

That comment was a reference to a 2020 report in The Atlantic that Trump had canceled a 2018 visit to an American cemetery near Paris because he felt that those who’d lost their lives and been buried there were “losers.” The magazine cited “four people with firsthand knowledge of those discussions.” Several media outlets confirmed the remarks, which Trump has denied. Trump’s former White House chief of staff John Kelly also said those specific comments were accurate.

Closing arguments wrap in RFK Jr. New York ballot access case

Closing arguments have wrapped in the ballot access case against independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr.  

Pursuants — defending Kennedy — argued that Kennedy never misled or confused signatories of his petition to appear on the ballot. Kennedy’s attorney emphasized the candidate’s intent to return to New York, drawing upon his ties to the state including his voter registration and his law firm in New York.  

Petitioners — arguing against Kennedy — accused him of “perpetrating a sham” with his election filing. They pointed out some inconsistencies throughout witness testimony and warned this case could provide a “playbook” to flout election law. Petitioners also brought up the potential for Kennedy to lose California’s electoral votes if his residency matched that of his running mate Nicole Shanahan, a California resident. 

Following the court’s adjournment, Kennedy delivered brief remarks to reporters outside the courtroom where he accused the Democratic Party of using “lawfare to narrow the choice” in the election.

He said, “[New York] is where I’ve always voted. I had no choice but to use this address.” He compared the case to tactics used by Russian President Vladimir Putin. “He got rid of his opponents; the same thing is happening in this country,” Kennedy told reporters.

Judge Christina Ryba did not indicate when she would issue a ruling or in what direction she might be leaning before adjourning court.

Pelosi discusses role in Biden dropping out, trashes his political operation

Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., discussed her role in encouraging Biden to drop out of the 2024 race in a new podcast interview with The New Yorker’s David Remnick. 

Pelosi explained that the Biden campaign wasn't "facing the fact of what was happening" in the weeks following the presidential debate and the president's weak performance. The former speaker said Democrats couldn't see it all "go down the drain" if Trump became president again.

“I’ve never been that impressed with his political operation,” Pelosi said about Biden's campaign. “They won the White House. Bravo. But my concern was: This ain’t happening, and we have to make a decision for this to happen. The president has to make the decision for that to happen."

The former speaker didn't elaborate about whom she was referring to.

Not much has changed at the top of the campaign: Jen O'Malley Dillon, who had been Biden's campaign chair , is still running Harris' campaign and Biden's campaign manager, Julie Chavez Rodriguez , is still campaign manager and will focus on Latino voters in states such as Arizona and Nevada.

"The thing is what we had to win," she said, adding that Biden's "whole legacy was at stake."

NBC News reached out to Pelosi's office and Harris' campaign for comment.

Trump reconsidering ABC debate with Harris

A person close to Trump said the former president may be softening his opposition to debating Harris on ABC News next month and indicated that he might have no choice if she declines other counteroffers because “he has to get her to speak.” Trump is also talking to other networks, per this source. 

Trump had agreed to a debate with President Joe Biden on Sept. 10 on ABC but backed out of it after Harris became the presumptive Democratic nominee. Trump proposed a debate on Fox News instead.

“The Vice President will be there one way or the other to take the opportunity to speak to a prime time national audience,” Michael Tyler, the Harris campaign communications director, told NBC News in a statement.

Abandon Biden campaign blasts Harris for telling protesters: 'I'm speaking'

The Abandon Biden campaign blasted Harris in a new statement this morning for telling pro-Palestinian protesters who interrupted her event last night, "If you want Donald Trump to win, then say that — otherwise I’m speaking.”

The group, which launched to protest Biden's handling of Gaza, said in a statement, "What Harris did show us last night, with her actions, was disdain for citizens of this country who are pleading for an end to a genocide. The Vice President could have taken it as a moment of empathy and acknowledgment of grievances but instead chose to conflate being anti-genocide with supporting Donald J. Trump."

The group's statement differed in tone from that of the Michigan Uncommitted movement, which urged Democratic primary voters earlier this year to vote "uncommitted" instead of for Biden in a show of protest against the president's approach to the war in Gaza.

In a statement from the Michigan Uncommitted group, co-founders Layla Elabed and Abbas Alawie, said, "It’s clear to us that Vice President Harris can lead our country’s Gaza policy to a more humane place. We hope she will meet with us so we can move forward to discuss an arms embargo." The Michigan Uncommitted founders briefly spoke with Harris in Detroit yesterday.

Rep. Debbie Dingell says she's worried about peaceful transition of power if Trump loses

Rep. Debbie Dingell, D-Mich., said she shares President Joe Biden's concern that Trump may not accept the election results if he loses.

Dingell, who attended Harris' rally in Detroit yesterday, told CNN this morning, “I am very concerned about what will happen if the numbers are close, will the results be accepted? You won’t have that problem on the Democratic side, but I do believe what we saw on January 6th is something that there are some people that are talking about it."

She added, "I would hope we could all work together, my Republican colleagues as well, on the other side to ensure that there is a peaceful transition of government, one of the core strengths of our democracy.”

‘Not right, not ready, not real’: Harris campaign co-chair slams JD Vance

Harris-Walz campaign national co-chair Mitch Landrieu discusses the state of the campaign, why he says the election will be close and his thoughts about JD Vance.

Trump campaign defends comments he made praising Walz in 2020

Jake Traylor

Gabe Gutierrez

Trump's campaign defended comments Trump made in 2020 praising Walz for his handling of riots in Minneapolis even though the former president has been criticizing the Minnesota governor on the issue since he was named Harris' running mate.

Trump campaign's communications director, Steven Cheung, said in a statement, "In this daily briefing phone call with Governors on June 1, days after the riots began, President Trump acknowledged Governor Walz for FINALLY taking action to deploy the National Guard to end the violence in the city.” 

Cheung still blasted Walz for his response to the 2020 riots in Minneapolis after George Floyd's death, saying Walz "allowed Minneapolis to burn for days, despite President Trump’s offer to deploy soldiers and cries for help from the liberal Mayor of Minneapolis."

In the audio, obtained by NBC News, Trump called Walz an "excellent guy" on a routine phone call with governors on June 1, 2020. ABC News was first to report on the audio.

"I know Gov. Walz is on the phone, and we spoke, and I fully agree with the way he handled it the last couple of days,” Trump also said on the call.

Buttigieg appears to compare attacks on Walz' military service to Vance's 'childless cat ladies' remark

In a post on his personal account on X last night, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg appeared to liken attacks on Walz's military service to Vance's criticism of people without children.

"Come to think of it, denigrating the worth of a soldier’s service based on whether he deployed to a war zone is… kind of like denigrating the worth of a woman’s citizenship based on whether she happens to have children," Buttigieg tweeted.

In recent days, Republicans have criticized Walz for his military record, which didn't include time in combat. Separately, Vance, Trump's running mate, has been under fire for comments he made about people without children. In a 2021 interview, Vance said that Harris, Buttigieg and other "childless cat ladies" don't have as much of a stake in the country's future as those who do.

Harris is the stepmother to Doug Emhoff's two children.

Michigan uncommitted leaders spoke briefly with Harris and Walz

Nnamdi Egwuonwu

The leaders of the Uncommitted National Movement met briefly with Harris and Walz at their Detroit campaign rally last evening, the group said.

The group said the two leaders, Layla Elabed and Abbas Alawieh, presented their concerns "about the U.S. supplying weapons for Israel’s war and occupation against Palestinians." They also requested a formal meeting with Harris "to further discuss their demands of an arms embargo and a permanent ceasefire."

Harris campaign spokesperson confirmed the meeting, saying in a statement that the vice president has prioritized engaging with Arab, Muslim and Palestinian communities since Oct. 7 over the war in Gaza.

"In this brief engagement, she reaffirmed that her campaign will continue to engage with those communities," the spokesperson said. "The Vice President has been clear: she will always work to ensure Israel is able to defend itself against Iran and Iran-backed terrorist groups. The Vice President is focused on securing the ceasefire and hostage deal currently on the table. As she has said, it is time for this war to end in a way where: Israel is secure, hostages are released, the suffering of Palestinian civilians ends, and the Palestinian people can realize their right to dignity, freedom, and self-determination.”

Harris' rally yesterday was interrupted by pro-Palestinian protesters.

Jan. 6 officers hit the road for Harris, hoping to make Trump lose another election

Police officers who protected the U.S. Capitol during the hourslong onslaught by Trump supporters on Jan. 6 , 2021, are hitting the road for Harris in hopes of keeping the former president, who is facing criminal charges for his efforts to stay in office by lying about the last election, from winning back the White House.

Former Capitol Police Officer Harry Dunn, former Capitol Police Sgt. Aquilino Gonell, and current Metropolitan Police Department Officer Daniel “Danny” Hodges will be showing their support for Harris and Walz in the coming days, joining up with the Democratic campaign for the first time since President Joe Biden dropped off the top of the ticket less than three weeks ago.

Dunn and Hodges will be in Michigan this week, visiting Grand Rapids, Flint and Detroit, and the members of the group will travel elsewhere soon, including to North Carolina and Georgia, the Harris campaign told NBC News. During the trips, the Biden-Walz campaign said, the officers would meet with elected officials as well as community leaders to underscore what they call the urgent and immediate threat that Trump poses to democracy.

Harris campaign targets Latino voters with swing state ad blitz

The Harris campaign is targeting Latino voters with a paid media blitz in battleground states starting today as Harris heads to Arizona and Nevada for a multiday swing.

The seven-figure buy will feature a new ad in both English and Spanish that will run over the next two weeks leading up to the Democratic National Convention, according to details first shared with NBC News.

The 60-second spot highlights Harris’ upbringing as the daughter of an immigrant mother, with the narrator saying: “Determination is how Kamala Harris went from working in McDonald’s to prosecutor, state attorney general, U.S. senator and our vice president — in only one generation.”

It features photos of Harris as a young child and then goes through the years of her early career in California, citing her work to “beat the banks that kicked families out of their homes.”

The ad will run on TV, radio and digital platforms during high-viewership events that appeal to Latino voters, including the Olympics, Major League Baseball games, telenovelas, game shows and soccer matches, according to the campaign.

“Vice President Harris knows the power of determination. It’s why throughout her life she’s taken on violent criminals, big banks, and greedy corporations—and won,” Harris senior spokesperson Kevin Munoz said in a statement. “Vice President Harris will use that same determination to beat Donald Trump, who is proudly running on an anti-Latino platform that demonizes immigrants, raises costs, and would make our communities less safe.”

The ad ends with Harris leading call and response with an audience on her new campaign motto: “When we fight, we win.”

Walz owns no stocks, bonds or real estate, disclosure shows

Dan Mangan, CNBC

Tim Walz owns no stocks, bonds or real estate, according to his most recent  financial disclosure .

Walz’s salary as governor of Minnesota is $127,629. He was eligible for a raise last year to $149,550, but he chose not to accept it, according to the state.

If Walz is elected vice president in November, he would make  an annual salary of $284,600 , based on 2024 rates.

Senate Democrats launch first attack in crucial Montana Senate race

Bridget Bowman

The Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee’s independent expenditure arm is launching its first attack in the Montana Senate race, targeting Republican Tim Sheehy over public lands. 

The race will be key to which party controls the Senate given Democrats’ slim majority. In Montana, Democratic Sen. Jon Tester is running for re-election in a state Trump won by 16 points in 2020.

The 30-second spot, which will run on connected TV platforms, criticizes Sheehy’s private ranch, citing reporting that in 2022 his ranch offered a five-day archery hunt for $12,500. 

“It’s pure Montana beauty, but you’re not allowed. This is Tim Sheehy’s private playground: prime elk country, fishing spots, even native sites, only accessible to those who can dole out thousands to hunt and fish,” a narrator says. “Get used to it: This is Montana’s future if Sheehy has his way.” 

The issue of access to public lands is expected to be a salient one in Montana, with some Montanans concerned about wealthy out-of-staters’ buying up land. 

Sheehy campaign spokesperson Jack O’Brien told NBC News in March that the attacks on Sheehy’s cattle ranch were “ridiculous” and stressed that Sheehy is committed to protecting public lands. 

“Tim is proud of the Little Belt Cattle Co., the team, and the work they do to preserve our ranching heritage in Montana,” O’Brien said at the time.

Here’s what Harris is doing today

Harris is expected to continue a campaign swing through battleground states with a United Auto Workers event in Detroit today after a campaign rally there last night.

The UAW has endorsed Harris' presidential bid.

What the Trump campaign is doing today

Trump's campaign is scheduled to host a news conference this afternoon on Harris' campaign agenda and her handling of immigration issues.

Arizona Republicans, including Senate candidate Kari Lake and Reps. Eli Crane and Andy Biggs, are expected to be there.

Rambling Trump, Musk interview marred by tech issues

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• Musk blames cyberattack for technical problems
• Interview attracts more than 1.3 million listeners
• Musk opens with questions about assassination attempt
• Trump says Harris "looks like the most beautiful actress"

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Reporting by Richard Cowan and Andy Sullivan; Additional reporting by Alexandra Ulmer, Kanishka Singh, Abhirup Roy, Eric Beech and Nathan Layne; Writing by Joseph Ax; Editing by Caitlin Webber, Alistair Bell, Heather Timmons and Stephen Coates

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At least 9 killed in Israeli strike on Southern Lebanon, state news agency says

At least nine people were killed and five wounded by an Israeli strike on a residential building in Nabatieh city in southern Lebanon, state news agency NNA said on Saturday.