What is Debate?

Different Types of Debate

High School Debate

Competitive platform for high school students to engage in structured argumentation.
Teaches critical thinking, research, and communication skills.
Offers various formats, including Lincoln-Douglas and Public Forum, to cater to different debating styles and interests.

Lincoln-Douglas Debate

A one-on-one debate format with a focus on values, ethics, and philosophy.
Named after Abraham Lincoln and Stephen A. Douglas, it emphasizes moral and ethical dilemmas.
Encourages debaters to develop strong individual speaking and argumentation skills.

Public Forum Debate

A team-based debate style involving current events and policy topics.
Emphasizes persuasive speaking, teamwork, and the ability to present complex ideas to a general audience.
Typically follows a structured format with defined roles for each team member, fostering collaboration and cooperation.

Parliamentary Debate

A partner-based debate style involving a wide range of topics ranging from political to philosophical.
Encourages debaters to think on their feet, develop strong rhetorical skills, and engage in spontaneous argumentation.
Features limited preparation time, requiring debaters to quickly formulate their arguments, emphasizing adaptability and quick thinking.

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