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Writer's pictureProject Make a Statement

Intro to Public Forum Debate

By Kacie Hu, Make a Statement Curriculum Team member


What is Public Forum?


Public Forum is a team event that advocates or rejects a position posed by the monthly resolution. The ideas from both sides must be presented in an organized manner to the non-specialist, the judge. The debate should present arguments supported by logic and evidence, present a clash with refutations, and communicate ideas clearly and eloquently.


Basics

  • Topic is worded as a resolution that advocates solving a problem by establishing a position (Affirmative supports, Negative is against)

  • A team consists of 2 debaters - first and second speaker

  • Each team needs to develop both an AFF case and a NEG case

  • A case centers around 2-3 quality arguments supported by reasoning and evidence

    • Evidence can include: facts/stats, quotes, studies, and anecdotes

  • Each time will have 2 minutes of prep time total


Speeches



Tips

  • Use evidence when refuting - this strengthens the quality of your refutations

  • Make your case easy to follow and understand so the judge doesn’t get confused

  • It is best to use your prep time before the Summary and Final Focus

  • Use Google Scholar when looking for evidence - this gives you more professional studies & credible sources

  • Take advantage of crossfire to enhance your arguments or weaken your opponents

  • Practice debating against another team for each side of the topic - this gives you an idea of what to expect and also helps you become more familiar with your case



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