Q&A for How to Write a Debate Speech

If you speak slowly and clearly, you're going to come across as confident. Try to breathe and really articulate what you say. You can also watch out for the way that you end your sentences. If you're going up in your pitch at the end of your sentences so that they all sound like questions, you're taking away and undermining your own power and confidence.

Mapping out the speech for yourself is the easiest way to memorize a speech. Figure out your speech's major intention and memorize the key points. When practicing, try using flash cards or recording yourself and watching it back.

Match your tone to the subject you are debating. If the subject is positive, make your tone positive. If the subject is serious, keep your tone serious as well. Don't be afraid to let your emotions show in your tone if you are debating something you feel strongly about, but be calm and reasonable as well. Remember to be confident in yourself and your topic.

You might begin with, "Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. We are gathered here for a debate of [topic of debate]. My name is [your name] and I am going to speak against..."

Try to do both. But memorizing is not the main thing, a debate is often about knowing the material well so you can think on your toes when needed.

Mobile phones: the hot topic in the world, everywhere you go you see it. Whether its a stranger at the bus, your friends or your relatives, everyone wants to know which mobile you've got. If you are seen using your phone in public, strangers will eye you, trying to figure out whether its the latest or not. You could end it with a deep quote. Something like "your cell phone has already replaced your camera, your calendar, your alarm clock, don't let it replace your family too."

Begin by saying something like, "Good morning, or afternoon, Mr. or Miss Chairperson, boys and girls and members of the opposition. We are here today to show you why..."

Provide a concluding sentence. For example: "In summary, animal abuse is most definitely and surely wrong and not morally justifiable. Thank you for listening!"

It's not necessary that you have to have a lengthy conclusion. You can end it by a quote and make it relevant to the debate.

Pretend that you are simply speaking to a friend - you are having a friendly debate over a topic, and you are stating your argument, in a slightly more professional manner. Speak from the heart, and nothing horrible will happen. When rebutting, rebut the way you naturally do when you are speaking against an argument that your friend has posed. Forget that you are in a formal debate and just go for it!

Here are some possibilities: 1.) Beauty isnt just about having a pretty face, 2.) Will power is the key to success. 3. Flattery is the key to success. 4.) Acceptance is better than resistance.

Focus on finding quality sources rather than a large quantity. A few solid references can be worth a great deal more than many references from less reputable sources.

Start with something dramatic, and speak from the heart. You could say something like, "They seek to divide us, wreak havoc, and bring tears of agony. But these terrorists, these people who do not even deserve to be called human, have failed to do so. Instead, they have brought people together. We, as humanity, must connect, link arms, and fight against this group who represent injustice and commit horrible atrocities."

Begin with a catchy introduction and clearly state what side you are on and what your team believes. Define your topic and introduce your arguments. Give an overview of the main points of your argument so that everything flows nicely.

It depends on your stance. If you are speaking against a motion, you can write a speech about what is wrong with the motion and offer better suggestions, but if you are supporting a motion, you should definitely include many positive points regarding the motion.

3-4 points per speaker would be plenty. You also have to leave time for the rebuttal.

You can't try to guess the topic, instead just work on being persuasive at debating. This can be done by watching numerous debate competitions which would enable you to gain attributes from an experienced debater.

A thesis is your stance or opinion towards an argument. For example, a thesis statement — if you are arguing the effects of a volcanic eruption on a Hawaiian ecosystem — would be something like: Volcanoes in Hawaii cause more damage than good.

Yes, you should. The right quotes are always good for evidence. If you are debating about a book, textual reference is key to having a strong point and makes it harder for the opposition to find a quote to go against yours. Quotes from professionals in certain fields or on certain topics can also give you a strong edge over your opponent.

Look up specific definitions of key words in your argument and present those definitions as part of your opening statements.

"Good Morning ladies and gentlemen, we are all present this fine day to discuss the jaw-dropping fact that more men are dying than women during our current century."

Hit your stance first. State your side and welcome the chairperson. Then start with an interesting and engaging statement about the topic.

If you are the Affirmative speaker, then yes.

"Some people would argue that kids should get pocket money. This topic is very debatable, however, I strongly believe they should, as giving an incentive to children at an early age inspires them to reach for higher goals in life." Or something like that!

If you are against this statement, give good reasons. Consider the children and parents' freedom. Maybe some children live too far from school to attend, or maybe this idea doesn't take into account that some children are needed at home during the day (i.e. the children of farmers are needed on the farm, or older teens need to help take care of their younger siblings). You could argue that it's up to the parents to make decisions about their children's education, not the government.

You should face the audience if that's what you're asked, and not worry about making eye contact with the judge.

Yes, you may start your speech by saying "Good morning."

You could use, 'I hope I have convinced and not confused you' or 'I hope I have changed your perspective on this topic.' Try your best to make the conclusion very convincing and appealing.

It depends on how you would like to put your speech. Usually the argument goes first.

The negative speech doesn't really have too many specific words, but words such as "adverse," "detrimental," and "ridiculous" are commonly used in rebuttals.