how do you do an opening presentation in a debate?

Question

my topic is stem cell research, wheter the us govt should increse funding for stem cell research. my team is against it. our topic is bio-ethics

Answer 1

First, call everybody else wrong, and clearly state that you (yourself) are correct.

Answer 2

In most debates the side arguing Pro (for the resolution) goes first. So the other side should start off with a specific suggestion or narrow area where the government should increase funding. Then your first statement should consist mainly in rebutting their arguments.

However, you will not know until they speak exactly what they are going to say. So you should prepare at least, say, half of your speech with arguments against this funding. You can probably bring in religious arguments, and priorities [we should spend this money elsewhere!]. Find some quotes of respected scientists or leaders in your argument areas.

This describes an ideal debate where you have a direct clash of issues and arguments. However, if you are at a beginning level of debate, you can prepare your entire opening presentation arguing several points against stem-cell research and not refute the other sides direct arguments.

Good luck!

Answer 3

I agree with Fred...but u have to do it quite tactfully and say u think stem-cell research is wrong and then say u will prove this through the debate!