Debate Scoring Sheet

Debate: Affirmative/ Opposition

Group Members: Class code and Program

Date:

Score:

Topic: ___________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________

Category Strong (5 points) Good (4 points) Fair (3 points) Needs Poor (1 point)
Improvement (2
points)

Argument Clear, Arguments are Arguments are Weak arguments No clear argument
Quality well-reasoned, clear, but may somewhat unclear with little evidence or valid reasoning.
and logically lack depth or or lack strong or clarity. No evidence
sound arguments. evidence in some support. provided.
Strong support areas.
with evidence.

Clarity and Clear, organized Generally clear Somewhat Disorganized, Very disorganized
Organization structure; easy to and organized, disorganized or difficult to follow. or incoherent.
follow. Logical with minor lapses unclear. Points Points are Hard to follow the
presentation of in flow or clarity. lack coherence. jumbled. flow of the debate.
arguments.

Delivery and Engaging, Clear delivery with Delivery is Delivery is unclear Poor delivery that
Persuasion confident delivery minor lapses in somewhat or lacks distracts from the
with good pacing confidence or monotone or lacks engagement, argument (e.g.,
and eye contact. engagement. confidence, making it hard to too soft-spoken,
Persuasive affecting persuade. monotone,
language used. persuasion. disorganized).

Use of Uses strong, Uses some Some evidence Limited or No evidence

Evidence relevant evidence evidence, but may used, but weak or irrelevant used.
(data, studies, lack depth or not particularly evidence.
expert opinions) to relevance in parts. relevant.
support
arguments.

Rebuttal and Responds Adequately Some rebuttal but Minimal rebuttal Fails to provide
Refutation effectively to responds to most lacks depth or and doesn't rebuttal or
opposing arguments with fails to challenge effectively counter refutation of
arguments, offers some effective the opposition's key arguments. opposing
strong counterpoints. points. arguments.
counterpoints.

Total:
 Argument, Rebuttal and Response Tracker

Arguments and Evidences Response to Rebuttal or Refutation to the

argument

Arg. 1: Rebuttal/Refutation: ​

Evidences:

Response/Defense: ​
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Arg. 2: Rebuttal/Refutation:

Evidences:

Response/Defense: ​
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Arg. 3: Rebuttal/Refutation: ​

Evidences:

Response/Defense: ​
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*Rebuttal means to challenge the arguments by presenting its weak points could be lack of evidence, erroneous data,
mis-interpretations, irrelevance of the argument or the evidence to support the argument. This also means presenting another point of
view that would render the argument irrelevant or weak compared to the counter argument presented.

*Refutation means to prove an argument, statement, or claim to be false or incorrect through evidence, logic, or clear reasoning.
Refutation is stronger than rebuttal and involves disproving the argument or claim completely.
Debate Instructions

Objective of the Debate:

The goal of this debate is for participants to present and defend their viewpoints on a given topic, while challenging and refuting
the arguments of the opposing team. The debate should be an opportunity to practice critical thinking, communication, and persuasion
skills. At the same time, to be an avenue for healthy and rich discourse about the ethical dilemmas about scientific and technological
advancements.

Debate Topics

1.​ "Artificial intelligence poses a greater threat than benefit to humanity."

2.​ “Mobile phones are a necessity that outweighs their potential risks.”

Structure of the Debate:

1.​ Preparation (Before the Debate):
○​ Topic Assignments: Topics will be assigned, but the designation of which side you should defend will be done
during our debate. This will allow you to prepare for both sides of the topic.
○​ Research: Both teams must research the topic thoroughly, using reliable sources. Develop 3 solid arguments
supported with evidence and facts. (You could prepare for more, do not limit yourself)
○​ Strategy: Decide how to organize your arguments, anticipate the opposing side's arguments, and prepare rebuttals
(counter-arguments).

Phases of the Debate:

1.​ Opening Statements (Introduction)
○​ Affirmative Team: The first speaker will present the team’s 3 solid arguments, providing a clear and concise
introduction to the position, including the facts or evidence supporting your arguments.
○​ Opposition Team: Afterwards, the first speaker of the opposition will do the same.
○​ Time: Each opening statement should be about 3-5 minutes.
2.​ Rebuttal:
○​ Affirmative Team: The second speaker will rebut the points made by the opposition, challenging their arguments
with evidence and logic.
○​ Opposition Team: The second speaker will respond or defend to the affirmative rebuttal. Afterwards, the opposition
will take turns in challenging the affirmative arguments.
○​ Time: Each rebuttal should be about 3-5 minutes.
3.​ Closing Statements:
○​ Affirmative Team: The final speaker will briefly summarize the team’s arguments and why their position is stronger
including the synthesis of their rebuttal.
○​ Opposition Team: The final speaker will do the same for their side, emphasizing the flaws in the affirmative
arguments and why their position prevails.
○​ Time: Each closing statement should be about 2-3 minutes.

Rules of Engagement:
1.​ Respect the Time:
○​ Stick to the time limits for each phase. Judges will cut off speakers if they go over the time limit.
2.​ No Interrupting:
○​ Speakers must wait for their turn. Do not interrupt the other team while they are speaking. The teacher will serve as
the mediator.
3.​ Use Evidence and Facts:
○​ All arguments should be backed by reliable evidence, including statistics, studies, or expert opinions. Unsupported
statements may be dismissed.
4.​ Be Respectful:
○​ Address the arguments, not the individuals. Avoid personal attacks and stay focused on the topic at hand.
5.​ Engage in Civil Discourse:
○​ A debate is a constructive exchange of ideas. Engage respectfully with opposing views and aim to persuade, not
antagonize.
6.​ Logical Flow:
○​ Keep your arguments organized, presenting them logically and sequentially. Avoid jumping between unrelated points.
7.​ Stay on Topic:
○​ Do not wander off topic. Each argument and rebuttal must address the resolution or main question directly.
Final Tips for Debaters:
●​ Prepare Well: The better you know your material, the more confident you’ll be in presenting and rebutting arguments.​

●​ Stay Calm and Confident: Even if you're challenged, remain calm and keep your focus. Confidence in your position can sway
the audience and judges.​

●​ Be Strategic in Rebuttals: Address the most important arguments the other side makes. Don’t feel obligated to respond to
every point—just the key ones.​

●​ Listen Actively: Pay attention to the opposing team's arguments. Good listening helps in crafting stronger rebuttals.​

●​ Conclude Strongly: Your closing statement is your last chance to make an impact. Be clear, concise, and emphasize your
strongest points.