Understanding Debate Terms

What is the main purpose of a debate?

• To declare a winner

• To persuade an audience or reach an agreement

• To entertain the participants

• To present unrelated arguments

What is an "argument" in the context of a debate?

• A well-structured and persuasive statement to support a position

• A joke or humorous remark
• A personal attack on the opponent
• A random statement with no relevance

What does a "counterargument" aim to do in a debate?

• Create confusion

• Provide evidence to support the main argument
• Present an opposing viewpoint or argument

• Agree with the main argument

What is the role of "data" in a debate?

• To distract from the main topic

• Data is used to confuse the audience.
• Data is irrelevant in a debate.
• Provide evidence and support for arguments or claims.

Which side of a debate argues in favor of the proposition?

• opposing
• affirmative
• negative
• against

The affirmative side in a debate aims to:

• Challenge the opposing side's arguments

• Present counterarguments

• Persuade the audience to reject the proposition

• Convince the audience of the proposition's strength

What does the "negative" side in a debate do?

• Presents arguments against the topic
• Provides a neutral perspective
• Moderates the debate
• Presents arguments in favor of the topic

What is a "proposition" in a debate?

• A person who proposes a debate topic.
• The topic that both sides address

• A term used to describe the conclusion of a debate.
• A statement that is not open for discussion.

During "cross-examination" in a debate, what is the purpose of questioning the opponent?

• To challenge arguments, gather misinformation, and expose weaknesses.
• To challenge arguments, gather information, and expose weaknesses.
• To avoid arguments, gather information, and expose strengths.
• To support arguments, gather information, and highlight strengths.

What does "credibility" refer to in a debate?

• Ability to speak loudly
• The believability and trustworthiness of a source or argument

• Knowledge of the topic
• Ability to persuade others