Affirmative______ Negative ________
The rubric for grading the debate follows:
Library time is used wisely
20 16 12 8 4 0
Each individual spoke loudly and clearly
10 8 6 4 2 0
Each individual was equally involved in the debate
15 12 9 6 3 0
Each person made eye contact with the opposing side rather than reading from a paper
20 16 12 8 4 0
The words spoken appeared to be the words of the speaker, not someone else’s. You may use 3X5 cards as notes and have printouts or books to refer to when quoting an expert. If it appears you are reading from something other than you own work you will receive a zero for the entire debate. Do not plagiarize!
25 20 15 10 5 0
The team used facts and quotes to support their position
30 24 18 12 6 0
There is evidence that both sides of the debate were thoroughly researched
20 16 12 8 4 0
Teammates helped one another when necessary
10 8 6 4 2 0
Ideas were attacked, not the people presenting them
10 8 6 4 2 0
Group members showed ability to “think on their feet”
15 12 9 6 3 0
Opening speech was well prepared
15 12 9 6 3 0
During the Rebuttal the team responds to issues raised by the other side
15 12 9 6 3 0
During the closing speech, the team summarizes their position and restates their point of view.
15 12 9 6 3 0
Group members appear to care about their position
15 12 9 6 3 0
After the official debate the presenters were involved in the full class discussion by answering questions and offering additional information
15 12 9 6 3 0
Name___________________ Name___________________
Total points earned_______________ Total points earned_______________
Total divided by 2
Final Score _______________ Final Score _______________
The format of the debate is as follows:
Affirmative opening speech: 3 - 5 minutes
Negative opening speech: 3 - 5 minutes
Preparation of Rebuttals: 2 minutes
Affirmative Rebuttal: 3 - 5 minutes
Negative Rebuttal: 3 - 5 minutes
Affirmative and Negative Cross Examination: 6 - 10 minutes
Preparation of Closing Speeches: 2 minutes
Affirmative closing speech: 3 - 5 minutes
Negative Closing speech: 3 - 5 minutes