Researching for a Debate What is a debate
Researching for a Debate
What is a debate? Ø A debate is, simply put, an argument. Ø But rather than being a shouting match between two sides, a debate has strict rules of conduct, utilizing sophisticated techniques. Ø 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 Ø Define the topic Ø “layman’s” terms Ø Be aware of the scope of the debate Ø What is included, what is not included Ø Get a clear understanding of your position (Pro vs. Con) Ø If in doubt, ask your teacher for clarification
Coming up with Keywords Children Ø Ø Parents Families Society Kids Punish Ø Ø Discipline Spank Time-Out Guidance Google Hint: ~Discipline will search for the word promotion and its common synonyms define: Discipline will search for definitions and links
Brainstorming Ø Brainstorm ALL possible arguments for & against the topic Ø Come up with as many arguments as possible to support your claim Ø Think about possible rebuttal arguments Ø Use a concept map
Importance of Research Ø Arguments will be based on evidence, facts and statistics. Ø Debater will become familiar with the topic, which allows for better flow of ideas and better preparation for rebuttal arguments. Ø Over-research. Ø Use multiple, diverse sources.
Looking for Information Ø Check the library for: ØBooks ØPeriodicals ØGovernment documents ØNewspapers ØVideos/DVDs ØHuman expertise
Looking for Information Ø Check the Internet for: ØOnline databases ØCurrent information (online newspapers, articles, studies. . . ) ØBlogs, Wikis, and websites of concerned organizations and societies.
Searching tips Ø Use “debate” language Ø Versus, for against, argument Ø Be clear & specific Ø Correct spelling is important Ø Phrase searching Ø “social promotion” Ø Leave out and, the, a , of. . . Ø Use the * wildcard (e. g. child* for child, children ; punish* for punish, punishing, punishment etc.
Going Beyond Google WVHS Library has licensed several databases that provide access to full text articles and current information: (accessible from home as well if you have the passwords) http: //destiny. wvcsd. org/common/servlet/presenthomef orm. do? l 2 m=Home&tm=Home&l 2 m=Home
Evaluate your sources ØThink critically about the information you find. Remember that your opponent will be as well. ØAsk yourself some of these questions…
Accuracy ØDoes the source seem correct? Do you need to cross check the information with a second source? ØIs it peer-reviewed?
Currency ØIs this source up to date? How old is too old?
Objectivity ØIs this source opinion or fact? Is it unnecessarily biased?
Purpose ØWhat is the purpose of this source? Is it trying to inform, to sell, to promote?
Authority Ø Who is the author / publisher of this source? Ø Is she/he a well-known researcher in the field? Is the journal accepted as authoritative by researchers?
Get Organized to Debate Ø Take lots of notes ØUse index cards or paper that can easily be reorganized ØKeep the notes short ØAdd personal comments ØInclude facts and statistics ØAcknowledge your sources for credibility http: //webster. commnet. edu/mla/notes. s html
Get Organized to Debate Ø Develop a thesis statement to guide your debate Ø 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 ww 2. aps. edu/~apsedumain/Curriculum. Instruction/glossary. htm A thesis statement: Ø states the topic / main idea of the debate Ø shows the purpose of the debate Ø shows the direction of your argument Ø is captivating
Thesis examples Ø It is better to spank children. weak example Ø 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 Ø Your point must have a basic, clear introduction. Ø You can open with a general thought or anecdote, but directly connect the intro to your thesis statement. Ø Start by being strong and confident.
Evidence Ø Gather at least three pieces of evidence to support your claim. Ø Have information on each “sub topic” prepared ahead of time.
Conclusion Ø Conclude your debate by disproving the opponent’s point. Ø Reaffirm your position by repeating the highlights of your evidence. Ø Restate your thesis.
Rebuttal Ø Do your research to be well-prepared for contra arguments. Ø Take notes of the points to rebut. Ø Concentrate on the important points and use logic to show why the other side is wrong. Ø Attack each argument that the opposition presents in turn.
Debate Tips Ø Search the web for debating videos. Ø Have notes prepared, but do not let your debate become an oral presentation of a written essay. Ø Practice speaking aloud in front of a mirror or other people. Ø Understand both sides of the debate so that you are prepared to contradict the other side. Ø Be ready to let go of small points. Concentrate on debating the main topics and prepared evidence.
2010 Holland College Library Services
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