Frequently Asked Questions

What if I don’t agree with the side I’m assigned?

That’s okay! The goal is to practice seeing both sides of an issue. This will make you a stronger thinker and communicator.

Embracing an assigned position, even if it contrasts with your personal beliefs, is a valuable exercise in critical thinking. It allows you to explore and understand perspectives different from your own, thereby strengthening your analytical and communication skills. This practice not only enhances your ability to construct compelling arguments but also fosters empathy and open-mindedness.

How can I make the most of my 60 seconds?

Start with a clear opening, provide evidence for your points, and end with a strong conclusion. Practice staying on track to use your time effectively.

To maximize your allotted time, structure your speech with a clear introduction that outlines your main argument, followed by well-organized points supported by credible evidence, and conclude with a succinct summary that reinforces your stance. Rehearsing your delivery can help you manage your time effectively and ensure that your argument is presented coherently. Engaging in mock debates can also be beneficial in refining your delivery and identifying areas for improvement.

What happens if I forget what to say?

It's natural to experience moments of hesitation. In such instances, take a deep breath to calm your nerves. Refocus by recalling the key points you've prepared and use them to guide your speech. Pausing briefly to collect your thoughts is perfectly acceptable and can demonstrate composure under pressure. Regular practice and familiarization with your material can reduce the likelihood of forgetting your points.

Do I have to debate alone?

Global debates are typically team efforts. Collaborating with teammates allows you to share ideas, distribute speaking roles, and support each other throughout the debate. Effective teamwork involves active listening, constructive feedback, and building upon each other's arguments to present a cohesive case. Engaging in mock debates with your team can help in refining your delivery and identifying areas for improvement.

Why are debate positions assigned so close to the event?

Assigning positions shortly before the debate encourages participants to prepare for both sides of the argument, promoting adaptability and comprehensive understanding of the topic. This approach ensures that debaters are well-versed in all aspects of the issue and can think critically on their feet, skills that are invaluable in real-world discussions.

How should I prepare if I don’t know my position?

It's prudent to develop arguments for both sides. Identify the strongest points supporting and opposing the statement, and gather evidence to substantiate each perspective. This dual preparation not only equips you to argue either side convincingly but also deepens your overall understanding of the topic.

What should we do if the other team presents similar arguments?

If a particicipating team covers points similar to yours, strive to offer a unique angle or supplement their arguments with additional evidence or examples. This approach enriches the discussion and ensures that your contribution adds value, making your team's case more compelling.

How do audience questions work?

Following the structured debate rounds, there is typically a session where the moderator and audience pose questions. These questions may challenge your arguments or seek clarification. Responding thoughtfully and confidently demonstrates your grasp of the topic and your ability to engage in spontaneous discourse.

What if the other side’s arguments are very strong?

When faced with formidable opposing arguments, focus on identifying weaknesses or gaps in their reasoning. Present counter-evidence or alternative perspectives that challenge their claims. Maintaining composure and adhering to your strategic approach can help you effectively address strong opposition.

Can I use notes during the debate?

Yes, utilizing notes is permissible and can aid in keeping your thoughts organized. However, it's advisable to only use them as reference points rather than reading verbatim. Engaging directly with your audience by maintaining eye contact and speaking naturally can enhance the persuasiveness of your delivery.

How are debates judged?

In the Global Debates format, there is a panel of three to five judges who evaluate debates based on the unique Global Debates Judging Criteria.

Why do we use debate statements instead of topics or questions?

Debate statements provide a definitive position to support or oppose, which facilitates a more structured and focused argumentation process. In contrast, broad topics or questions can lead to diffuse discussions. Clear statements help in delineating the scope of the debate, allowing for more in-depth exploration of the issue.

What if I’m nervous about public speaking?

Feeling anxious about public speaking is common. To build confidence, practice regularly in low-stakes settings, such as rehearsing with friends or participating in mock debates. Gradually exposing yourself to speaking opportunities can help desensitize anxiety. Remember, the goal is to learn and improve, and each experience contributes to your growth as a debater.