WSDC Debate Format and Rules

The video explains the World Schools Debating Championships (WSDC) format, a common debate structure used internationally. It details the roles and responsibilities of the proposition and opposition teams, including defining terms, presenting arguments, and rebuttals. The debate consists of four speeches, with the first three allowing eight minutes for arguments and the last, a four-minute reply speech. The format ensures equal time for both teams and encourages interaction. The video also highlights the benefits of this structured approach in organizing ideas and strengthening cases.

What is the most common format used in international debating tournaments?

• British Parliamentary

• World Schools Style

• Asian Parliamentary

• American Parliamentary

How many countries have participated in the World Schools Debating Championships since its inception?

• Over 70

• Over 60

• Over 80

• Over 50

How long is each of the first three speeches in a WSDC debate?

• 6 minutes

• 7 minutes

• 8 minutes

• 9 minutes

What is the purpose of the reply speech in a WSDC debate?

• To introduce new arguments

• To summarize the debate and validate their side

• To challenge the opposition's definitions

• To present a new case line

Who starts the debate in a WSDC format?

• The audience

• The proposition team

• The opposition team

• The judges

What should the proposition team do when introducing the motion?

• Avoid defining the motion

• Define the motion in a way that confuses the opposition

• Define the motion in a way that is unreasonable

• Define the motion in a way that is fair and clear

What is a case line in a WSDC debate?

• A conclusion of the debate

• A detailed argument

• A list of rebuttals

• A brief summary of the team's case

What can the opposition team do if they find the motion's definition unreasonable?

• Redefine it

• Accept it

• Challenge it

• Ignore it

What are rebuttals in a WSDC debate?

• Summaries of the debate

• Responses to the opposition's arguments

• New arguments

• Introductions of the team

How do teams continue the debate after the initial speeches?

• By ignoring the opposition

• By presenting new motions

• By summarizing the debate

• By refuting opponents' arguments and defending their own