Researching for a

Debate

What is a debate?
A debate is, simply put, an argument.
But rather than being a shouting match
between two sides, a debate has strict rules
of conduct, utilizing sophisticated
techniques.
You may be put in a position where you
must argue the opposite of what you
believe in. This is an important part of the
art of debating.

Exploring the Topic

Define the topic
laymans terms

Be aware of the scope of the debate

What is included, what is not included

Get a clear understanding of your

position (Pro vs. Con)
If in doubt, ask your learning manager
for clarification

Coming up with
Keywords
Children

Parents
Families
Society
Kids
Google Hint:

Punish

Discipline
Spank
Time-Out
Guidance

~Discipline will search for the word

promotion and its common synonyms
define: Discipline will search for
definitions and links

Brainstorming
Brainstorm ALL possible arguments
for & against the topic
Come up with as many arguments
as possible to support your claim
Think about possible rebuttal
arguments
Use a concept map and PMI

Importance of Research
Arguments will be based on evidence,
facts and statistics.
Debater will become familiar with the
topic, which allows for better flow of
ideas and better preparation for rebuttal
arguments.
Over-research.
Use multiple, diverse sources.

Looking for Information

Check the library for:
Books
Periodicals
Government documents
Newspapers
Videos/DVDs
Human expertise

Looking for Information

Check the Internet for:
Online databases
Current information (online newspapers,
articles, studies. . .)
Blogs, Wikis, and websites of concerned
organizations and societies.

Searching tips
Use debate language
Versus, for against, argument

Be clear & specific

Correct spelling is important
Phrase searching
social promotion

Leave out and, the, a , of . . .

Use the * wildcard (e.g. child* for child,
children ; punish* for punish, punishing,
punishment etc.

Evaluate your sources

Think critically about the
information you find. Remember that
your opponent will be as well.
Ask yourself some of these
questions

Accuracy
Does the source seem correct?
Do you need to cross check the
information with a second
source?
Is it peer-reviewed?

Currency
Is this source up to date? How
old is too old?

Objectivity
Is this source opinion or fact? Is
it unnecessarily biased?

Purpose
What is the purpose of this
source? Is it trying to inform, to
sell, to promote?

Authority
Who is the author / publisher of
this source?
Is she/he a well-known researcher
in the field? Is the journal accepted
as authoritative by researchers?

Get Organized to Debate

Take lots of notes
Use index cards or paper that can
easily be reorganized
Keep the notes short
Add personal comments
Include facts and statistics
Acknowledge your
sources for credibility
http://webster.commnet.edu/mla/notes.shtml

Get Organized to Debate

Develop a thesis statement to
guide your debate
Formulate a plan for an
introduction, presentation of
evidence and conclusion

Thesis Statement
A thesis statement is the basic argument
advanced by a speaker or writer who then
attempts to prove it; the subject or major
argument of a speech or composition
ww2.aps.edu/~apsedumain/CurriculumInstruction/glossary.htm

A thesis statement:
states the topic / main idea of the debate
shows the purpose of the debate
shows the direction of your argument
is captivating

Thesis examples
It is better to spank children.
weak example
Studies have shown that spanking children is
an effective means of behavioural modification
and that if used properly, leads to a better
disciplined and more socially productive adult.
stronger example

Introduction
Your point must have a basic, clear
introduction.
You can open with a general thought
or anecdote, but directly connect
the intro to your thesis statement.
Start by being strong and confident.

Evidence
Gather at least three pieces of
evidence to support your claim.
Have information on each sub
topic prepared ahead of time.

Conclusion
Conclude your debate by
disproving the opponents point.
Reaffirm your position by repeating
the highlights of your evidence.
Restate your thesis.

Rebuttal
Do your research to be well-prepared for
contra arguments.
Take notes of the points to rebut.
Concentrate on the important points
and use logic to show why the other
side is wrong.
Attack each argument that the
opposition presents in turn.

Debate Tips
Search the web for debating videos.
Have notes prepared, but do not let your
debate become an oral presentation of a
written essay.
Practice speaking aloud in front of a mirror or
other people.
Understand both sides of the debate so that
you are prepared to contradict the other side.
Be ready to let go of small points.
Concentrate on debating the main topics and
prepared evidence.

2010
Holland College Library Services