Debate Skills Quiz

What is the main purpose of a debate?

• To entertain the audience with jokes

• To convince the audience of a particular viewpoint

• To avoid discussing controversial topics

• To let both sides agree on everything

In a debate, the side that supports the topic is called the:

• Negative (CON) side

• Neutral side

• Affirmative (PRO) side

• Audience side

Which of the following is NOT a skill of a good debater?

• Being respectful

• Ignoring opposing arguments

• Thinking quickly

• Presenting logical arguments

What is a "rebuttal" in a debate?

• A summary of your own arguments

• A response that points out weaknesses in the opponent's arguments

• A joke to make the audience laugh

• A statement agreeing with the opponent

Which part of a debate involves answering audience questions?

• Constructive speech

• Rebuttal

• Cross-examination

• Resolution

What is a "resolution" in a debate?

• A joke told by the debater

• The final decision made by the judge

• A clear statement of the debater's position

• A list of audience questions

Why are debates important in a democratic society?

• They prevent people from sharing opinions

• They allow equal opportunity to discuss different viewpoints

• They force everyone to agree

• They discourage critical thinking

Which of the following is a good source of evidence for a debate argument?

• Personal feelings without proof

• Statistics and expert opinions

• Rumors heard from friends

• Fictional stories

What should a debater do during the summary of their argument?

• Introduce new points not discussed before

• Repeat all arguments without emphasis

• Highlight key points and appeal to the audience

• Insult the opponent's ideas

If a debater scores 5 out of 6 on the self-assessment checklist, they are likely a/an:

• Rookie Debater

• Great Debater

• Expert Debater

• Unprepared Debater