Debate Format
Two teams shall participate in a debate, each team comprising of up to three competitors. Competitors shall
be called upon to speak by the chairperson in the following order:
1. opening proposition (5-8 minutes)
2. opening opposition (5-8 minutes)
3. second proposition (5-8 minutes)
4. second opposition (5-8 minutes)
5. third proposition(5-8 minutes)
6. Third opposition(5-8 minutes)
7. Fourth proposition(5-8 minutes)
8. fourth opposition(5-8 minutes)
9. Comments from the floor
10. opposition summator (each member gets one minute)
11. proposition summator (each member gets one minute)
12. vote
The task of the proposition is propose the topic with constructive arguments and the use of supporting
material; the opposition team must oppose the resolution, by both rebutting the arguments of the
proposition through the use of constructive arguments and supporting material.
The first proposing speaker must define the topic, by setting out the subjects, issues and terms of debate.
Definitions should be reasonable, clear and reasonably related to the terms of the topic. The first proposing
speaker should not define a topic in a manner that is unfair to the opposition, or that is not closely
connected to the letter and spirit of the topic. The proposition should also not propose a definition that runs
counter to the topic, or that is perverse or tautological (true by definition).
The opposition must in general accept the definition of a topic made by the first proposition speaker; but
the first opposing speaker shall have the option to challenge a definition. A definition should only be
challenged if it does not conform to the rules set out above. If the opening opposing speaker does not
challenge it, all speakers in the debate must accept the definition.
Following the speech of the third speaker of the opposition the chairperson shall open the debate to the
floor. At this stage any member of the floor may raise points, stating if proposing or opposing the topic.
Control of the floor is at the sole discretion of the chairperson and should as far as possible allow even
representation to both the proposing and opposing viewpoints. No speaker from the floor may speak for
more than 30 seconds and is entitled to raise only one point at a time. Time should be given for fair
argument, in the region of 10 to 15 minutes.
In the final presentations (1 minutes per each speaker), the speakers are each required to identify one
summary argument. These summaries are encouraged and expected to develop and expand on arguments
already made during the course of the debate.