Breaking Down Barriers:
Ask Jim about Debate

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You can submit questions too, just email Jim at hansonjb@whitman.edu

How can I make the last speech a very powerful one?

  1. speak loud
  2. start with an overview explaining what happens when the plan is passed. as you explain each sequential step, explain how these occurrences demonstrate only good/bad things will happen. "when you give russia economic aid, their economy will go up immediately--according to the best economists and for the logical reason that investors will see that as a sign of confidence in their economy; with the economy up our evidence says that yeltsin and the democrats power will be bolstered meaning nationalists won't be able to attack the government, etc." it would not be a bad idea to have this story at least partially written out. you will, obviously, need to adapt it for the issues raised in each unique round.
  3. in your overview, list the 2 to 4 main reasons to vote for your side
  4. never start your speech with your opponents' arguments. "our opponents, the negative has said . . . ." gong! start with "the affirmative wins for three reasons . . ."
  5. a catch phrase like "try or die" or "prevent the harms--don't let them happen and hope you can repair the damage" will work. be sure to repeat this key phrase at several key moments during the speech
  6. "even ifs" tell the judge that "even if" she/he agrees with an opponent argument, you still win because . . .

 

Got additional ideas or another question? Just email me at hansonjb@whitman.edu