Resources

Beginner Guides

Debating - Brief Introduction for Beginners

Debating: A Brief Introduction for Beginners

This free publication describes the basics of debating as well as an overview of the steps of preparing a debate. Debating - A Brief Introduction for Beginners

Rebuttal: The Beginner’s Guide

Get started on rebuttal with this handy guide. The Beginner's Guide to Rebuttal

The Official Debating Manual

The Official Debating Manual provides comprehensive and detailed guidance about the rules and technique of debating. This publication is available for purchase in our shop.

Debating Word Definition Sheet

A worksheet exercise to help students become familiar with debating terminology. Answers included. Debating Word Definition Sheet

Rubric for Adjudication

This rubric is used by adjudicators to assess speeches during the debate. Important: This document is provided solely for the use of Debating SA participants as well as teachers in schools for educational purposes. It must not otherwise be used or otherwise copied without express and prior written consent. Adjudication Rubric

Speech Structure Fact Sheet

Speech Templates

Speech Structure Templates

We have created some templates that debaters can use to prepare their speeches. These include cue card formats that can be printed on plain paper or cardboard (we recommend 200gsm) and cut out.

Speech Structure Template – Cue Card Format PDF

Speech Structure Template – Cue Card Format DOCX

Speech Structure Template – A4 Paper Version

At the Debate

Chairman, Timekeeper and Official Score Sheets

This sheet is used by the Chairman to introduce the debate and each of the speakers. The timekeeper records the length of each speech. This is then handed to the adjudicator at the end of the debate. Chairman, Timekeeper and Official Score Sheets