DEBATE WRITING

FORMAT/ GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS

1. Greet the audience.
2. Introduce yourself (mention your name only if given in the
question)
3. Introduce the topic.
4. Mention your stance/position- FOR/AGAINST
5. Main content includes arguments to support your stand/position. In
case of writing in favor of the motion, write about the advantages
and merits of the topic. In case of writing against the motion, cite
the problems/ disadvantages of the topic and provide solutions.
Use proofs, correct data, survey reports, real life examples, news to
support/justify your stand.
Use following expressions to present your arguments:
● In my opinion
● I strongly believe that
● I’m of the view
● I submit that
● I wholeheartedly agree/support the view

6. Refute the arguments of your opponent by using the following

expressions:
● My worthy opponent may say that…but I…
● My knowledgeable friend may argue that… but he forgot to
mention that..
● I’m astonished by the views of my worthy opponent…
● I totally disagree with what my learned opponent said…
7. Use quotes to make your debate impressive.
8. Conclude by reiterating your stance and thank the audience for
being patient listeners.

Let’s discuss the format in detail

1. Introduction
This includes salutations and the topic (including FOR/AGAINST the motion). For
Example:- Good morning everyone. Esteemed judges, honourable guests, respected
teachers and my fellow students. I, (the name is given in the question or else, XYZ) feel
honoured to have been given the opportunity to speak (FOR/AGAINST) the topic-
(name of the topic).
2. Body - This is the main paragraph or the body of your answer. In case of writing in
favor of the motion, write about the advantages and merits of the topic. In case of
writing against the motion, cite the problems/ disadvantages of the topic and
provide solutions.

1. Always begin with the meaning of the topic or the explanation of the topic in not
more than a line.
2. Then start quoting the issues. Now here, it is important you follow a sequence. It
is possible that you have too many points or very few points. When you have a lot
of varied points, it is better you choose a few best ones and write a line on each. In
case you have very few already, explain them in at least two lines each.
3. Make sure you are clear with your thoughts, only then you’ll be able to put them
into words unambiguously.
Solution- "For every problem, there is a solution."
This paragraph needs to be short and crisp whereby; you are supposed to give a
rational and practical solution for all the above problems.

1. In case you are not able to figure one out, keep in mind a few general ones. It
could involve spreading awareness, campaigns, stringent laws and their strict
implementation, education, etc.
2. Using a quote never hurts. It can be general ones like, on working together. Every
situation can be faced and solved if there is unity. So here are a few handy ones.
"Wherever there is unity, there is always victory."
"Unity is strength."
"United we stand, divided we fall." And many more.
4. Conclusion- This part involves clarification of your statement and stance along with
thanking the audience for being such patient listeners. This paragraph needs to be short
and precise.
Here also, you could add some glitter to your art piece with some quotes like "The word
IMPOSSIBLE itself says, I'M POSSIBLE."

DO’S

1. Before you begin writing, write down all the points (one/two words per point) at
the back of your answer sheet (rough sheet) so that you do not forget relevant
points while writing. This also helps you in maintaining a sequence, which is very
important.
2. Make sure you double-check for grammatical accuracy and spellings. They carry
marks.
3. Leave an adequate number of lines between paragraphs to make it look clean.
4. Underlining the main points is very important. But it is advised to do it after
finishing your exam. Use a pencil and scale for underlining.
5. Always have a few general quotes in handy. They help in presentation and
shows that you’re prepared
6. Presentation is very important.
7. Read a lot of debates to get an idea.
8. Have information about all the major environmental, political, social issues that
have taken place during the entire year. The Sample Question Paper 2018-19
 released by CBSE consists of a question on "Social Media and its effects"Â. It
can be linked with a lot of problems we are facing today on a personal and on a
global level.
DON’Ts

1. Never mention any of your personal details, i.e., name, school name or address.
2. Never write in one go. Make sure you follow the right format and make
paragraphs.
3. Don’t use slangs or short forms.
4. Don’t write the wrong facts.
5. Try not to exceed the prescribed word limit of 150-200 words. (IF IT COMES
FOR 5 MARKS THEN WRITE 100-120 WORDS)
6. Do not invest too much time in just this question

Q1. You are Mukul / Mahima of Alps Public School. Your school has organized
a debate on "Social Media and It’s Effects"Â and you will be participating in
your school. Prepare your views against or in favour of the motion. (150-200
words) (10)
Answer:

SOCIAL MEDIA AND IT’s EFFECTS

FOR THE MOTION:

"We are all now connected by the internet, like neurons in a giant brain"
Honourable judges, teachers and my worthy opponents thank you for giving me the
opportunity to join this debate on the topic, "Social Media and It’s Effects". I am Mukul/
Mahima and I would like to speak in favour of the motion.
How many people do not have a smile on their faces on finding an old friend on
Facebook? Well, social media has removed all the barriers and boundaries to
communication by bringing the globe on a single platform. While business opportunities
have widened, marketer’s reach has broadened. It keeps us updated about everything
going on in every nook and corner of the world on a real-time basis. From emergency
alerts, announcements and declarations to knowing how our friends are doing has all
become so convenient. It provides freedom of speech and thus, enables everyone to
speak their mind. Not to forget the incalculable access it provides to the extensive
information.
With so much advancement and innovation, it would be an unimaginable world without
having social media in it. Someone has rightly put it into words by saying, "Social
media is addictive precisely because it gives us something what the real world lacks: it
gives us immediacy, direction and value as an individual."
Thank you.

AGAINST THE MOTION:

What a world it is, with everyone on their phones, all the time, faking their lives and
keeping a count of their likes?
Good Morning, ladies and gentlemen! I am Mukul/ Mahima and my topic for the day is,
"Social media and its effects". I would like to speak against the motion. It has now
become doubtful to trust the saying that goes like "Technology was developed to save
time and make our lives easier", because people have become addicted and
unproductive. It takes a lot of effort and discipline to stay away from social media.
Results have shown that it has had adverse effects on human minds and their
functioning. Outdoor activities among children have also reduced significantly. No doubt
it provides access to useful information, but, it is hard to ignore the quantum of fake
news that spreads like wildfire and the extent of impact it has on the society. In fact,
fake whatsapp forwards was a clear pattern that was observed behind the recent mob
lynchings or rather, "Death by social media".
It is one of the reasons behind insecurities and depression among teenagers. It is
right that technology was introduced to save time, but we forgot to mention, "In the
right amount"Â. So, remember, you leave the present moment every time you check
the phone.

Thank you for your cooperation and patient hearing

Points to Remember

1. Collect the points related to the topic both in favour and against
it. 2. Read the reference books.

3. Discuss the topic with peer group or seniors.

4. Collect the authentic data and try to add the points which are beyond re-buttle.
5. Use simple and short sentences.

6. Address the audience.

7. Use questions, phrases and quotes.

Home Assignment

Q1. "ONLINE SMART CLASSES ARE THE FUTURE OF EDUCATION STYLE". Write

a debate either for or against the motion.