Human Rights Debates

Description:
For the final assessment of the Human Rights unit, you will work with your debate teammates to argue one side of an issue. Along with the information you have learned from class, you will need to research additional evidence in order to (1) support your arguments (2) understand the arguments that your opponents might present. On the day of your Debate Presentation, you and your team will participate in a formal debate. You will be evaluated on your content (evidence and argument) and your debate skills.
Roles:
A.	Presentation Position
You are responsible for presenting your team’s initial position. You must present all aspects of the argument, presenting specific examples and evidence to provide both understanding and support for your position.

B.	Rebuttal Position
You are responsible for a rebuttal to the opposition’s argument. You must address all aspects of the opposition’s position, presenting specific examples and evidence to both refute their position and support your team’s position.

C.	Closing/Summary
You should reiterate the strength of your position and point out why the issues discussed in the debate weigh in favor of your side. The ‘Closer’ may also rebuild any issues damaged by the opposition’s attacks. This is a brief, but powerful speech.

D.	Cross Examination/Response Experts 
[This may be assigned to one or members of the team]:
This is an opportunity to ask relevant questions to your opponents. The questions can be used to have them clarify their position, as well as to expose weaknesses in both their logic and/or their historical foundation of their argument.
The Response Experts must be prepared to quickly (and briefly) respond to the questions raised during cross-examination. You must be prepared to provide specific examples and evidence in order to thoroughly address each of their questions.
This is not a speech - save it for the Rebuttal and Closing.

Format for Debate:
4 minutes	Affirmative (PRO) presentation
2 minutes	Cross examination of Affirmative PRO by Negative (CON)

4 minutes	Negative (CON) presentation
2 minutes	Cross examination of CON by Affirmative (PRO)

3 minutes	Affirmative Rebuttal
3 minutes	Negative Rebuttal

2 minutes	Negative Closing Statement
2 minutes 	Affirmative Closing Statement

Some points to consider and remember:
•	Opening: present the strongest possible arguments
a.  clearly state what your are going to do to establish proof
b.  by means of convincing arguments
c.  use reason and emotion to persuade judge and audience.
•	Rebuttal: response to specific points of your opponent’s opening.
•	Rehearse: do not get sidetracked!
•	In a debate, opinion counts for nothing; your argument cannot be taken seriously without showing strong evidence.
•	Logic: demonstrates sound reasoning of your arguments.
•	Argumentation: attempts to convince and persuade the judge [not your opponents]!

Complete the following information:
Your debate topic [pro or con]:

Your debate partner’s name and phone number/email

			
			
Your debate opponents: