LEVEL: ADVANCED
MODULE:3
TOPIC:Debate a topic
GENERAL EXPLANATION
As per the http://www.americandebateleague.org/ - A debate is an organized argument or contest of ideas in which the participants discuss a topic from two opposing sides. Those who agree with this statement or idea are the "Pro" side. Those who will not agree with this statement or idea are the "Con" side. Each side will show in an organized and clever way why they believe to have the right answers. They will use examples and evidence to support their ideas while working towards a conclusion.
The aim of a debate is to convince the
opposition that you are right. When the two sides agree on the subject or when
one side's arguments are more convincing than the other side that is when the
debate comes to a close. In a formal debate, a mediator (a person that has not
agreed with the Pro or the Con) will decide who the winner should be. In an
informal debate the argument can continue until the time when one side gives
up.
Debate is like an
intellectual sport where you have to learn the skills to win. For example, in order
to win a debate round, you need to have a full understanding of the topic you
are debating about. You must also be able to answer the following questions:
(1) Who are the people the debate
is about and who is presenting the argument?
(2) What is the debate
about?
(3) Where did the incident
discussed take place?
(4) When did the incident
discussed take place?
(5) Why did the incident happen
and why are you debating about it?
(6)How did the incident
happen?
Once you understand these
questions, then you will be able to build your argument in a logical way to win
a debate round.
Always remember: the topic of a debate is always a
statement, it's never a question.
Module 1.1
Module 1.1
Title :Speak with clarity
Explanation about the title:
Speaking clearly is a hallmark of proper
communication. Unless we can speak clearly, it might be difficult for the
listener to comprehend. Speaking clearly comprises of the following two aspects
1.Clarity of pronunciation. 2. Clarity of thought.
The combination of these two along with constant
practice inspires confidence in the speaker.
Module 1.2
Title: Using Idioms and
phrases.
Use of relevant idioms and
appropriate phrases adds substance to the way a topic is being debated. We
commonly use idioms and phrases to embellish our writings, speeches etc.
However, the essence of any debate primarily depends on the proper use of
idioms and phrases. These help us to connect ideas, contradict our opponents
and make a powerful statement to our listeners.
Example:
· It
is a known fact that….
· I
beg to differ…
· I
would like to apprise the house…
· As
the saying goes, honesty is the best policy,...
· I
don't want to pick a fight with my opponents, but…
· Add
fuel to the fire…
· Throw
elbows…
· There
is no need to be aggressive…
· There
is no reason to rake over the ashes…
· My
worthy opponents may believe…
One can pick suitable idioms and
phrases based on the topic under debate.
Sample Audio:
Interactive Video with subtitles:
The following is an example of a well prepared and
well knit arguments delivered during a debate, using various idioms and
phrases.
Activity 1:
Make a collection of various idioms and phrases
that you could use to debate a topic.
Select any 2 topics SOCIAL
AND POLITICAL TOPIC
· Human cloning should be legalized.
· All drugs should be legalized.
· Animal testing should be banned.
· Climate change is the greatest threat facing
humanity today.
· Violent video games should be banned.
· Every citizen should be mandated to perform
national public service.
· Bottled water should be banned.
· Plastic bags should be banned.
Activity 2:
Prepare a debate on any of the following topics.
You may choose to speak for the motion or against the motion. Record it and
share it in the WhatsApp group
· Newspapers are a thing of the past.
· Media has the power to sway public opinion
· Capital punishment should be abolished.
· Television is the leading cause of violence in the
society.
· Social networking sites are causing more harm than
good.
Activity 3:
Now record your video delivering the debate topic you
prepared in activity 2 using the flipgrid link provided.
SELF TEST
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