About the Writing Skill
Paul Masih
Definition
A debate is a structured contest where participants argue for or against a proposition. The goal is to convince the audience through logical reasoning, compelling evidence, and effective communication.
Structure of Debate Writing
Salutation
Begin by addressing the jury, audience, and chairperson respectfully. For instance:
"Respected Chairperson, honorable members of the jury, and dear friends."
Introduction
Start with an engaging element like a quotation, a rhetorical question, or an interesting statistic.
Clearly state the topic and your stance (for or against). Example:
"The motion tabled before the house is...' and I stand firmly in favor of/against it."
Body
State Your Stand: Begin with your strongest argument and make your position clear.
Main Points: Develop 3–4 strong points to support your stance.
Examples and Evidence: Use statistics, anecdotes, or facts to substantiate your points.
Rebuttal: Counter the opposing views by negating at least two of their arguments. You can pose questions to highlight the flaws in their reasoning.
Conclusion
Summarize your arguments.
Reiterate your stance.
End with a strong closing statement or a memorable quotation.
Language Tips
Use formal, persuasive language.
Incorporate rhetorical questions for emphasis. Example:
"In a world driven by technology, can we afford to ignore its role in education?"
Ensure clarity and coherence in arguments.
Use connectors and linkers to maintain a smooth flow.
Points to Remember
Always keep the audience in mind and address them respectfully.
Stay relevant to the topic and avoid digressing.
Keep your arguments logical and avoid personal attacks.
Maintain a confident tone throughout.
Marking Scheme
Salutation: 1 mark
Opening statement: 1 mark
Main content/body: 2 marks
Concluding statement: 1 mark
Sample Topics for Practice
Should technology replace books?
Does the current examination system in India test true student caliber?
Is the generation gap harming family traditions?
Should school children be required to wear uniforms?
Let’s junk all junk food – For or Against.
Example Outlines
Topic: Should teenagers be allowed unlimited freedom?
Introduction:"Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. Today, I stand before you to argue against the motion that teenagers should be granted unlimited freedom."
Body:
Point 1: Highlight the risks of unchecked freedom, such as exposure to harmful content.
Point 2: The importance of guidance in shaping responsible adults.
Counter: While teenagers crave independence, their judgment is not fully matured to handle complex situations.
Conclusion:"Freedom is a gift, but it must come with responsibility. Unlimited freedom is not liberation but an invitation to chaos. Thank you."
Sample Topics for Practice
Should technology replace books?
Does the current examination system in India test true student caliber?
Is the generation gap harming family traditions?
Should school children be required to wear uniforms?
Let’s junk all junk food – For or Against.
Sample Topics for Practice
Should Technology Replace Books?
For: Highlight the accessibility, eco-friendliness, and advanced features of e-books.
Against: Discuss the sentimental value, reliability, and lack of screen time associated with physical books.
Does the Current Examination System in India Test True Student Caliber?
For: Argue that it ensures standardization and hones intellectual rigor.
Against: Highlight stress, focus on rote learning, and lack of emphasis on practical skills.
Is the Generation Gap Harming Family Traditions?
For: Mention how differing values and technology usage have created disconnection.
Against: Show how evolving norms can enhance cultural growth while preserving essentials.
Should School Children Be Required to Wear Uniforms?
For: Emphasize discipline, equality, and reduced peer pressure among students.
Against: Advocate for freedom of expression and individuality through personal attire.
Let’s Junk All Junk Food – For or Against
For: Highlight health benefits, prevention of obesity, and encouragement of nutritious habits.
Against: Argue for moderation instead of elimination and the cultural aspect of occasional indulgence.
1. Private cars should be banned in the congested commercial areas of the cities." Write a debate in 120-200 words either for or against the motion.
Debate: Private Cars Should Be Banned in Congested Commercial Areas
For the Motion
Good morning, respected chairperson, honourable jury, and dear friends. I firmly support the motion to ban private cars in congested commercial areas.
The increasing traffic congestion in commercial areas leads to severe air and noise pollution, causing immense health hazards. Private cars contribute significantly to this problem. Moreover, the limited parking spaces in these areas create chaos, obstructing smooth movement for pedestrians and emergency vehicles.
Public transportation and carpooling offer viable alternatives, reducing the number of vehicles on the road while being cost-effective and environmentally friendly. Successful implementation of such bans in cities like London and Singapore has shown remarkable improvement in traffic flow and air quality.
Furthermore, such restrictions encourage the use of eco-friendly transport, fostering a sustainable urban environment. Let us prioritize the greater good over individual convenience.
Thank you.
………………………………………………….
Against the Motion
Good morning, respected chairperson, honourable jury, and dear friends. I stand firmly against the motion to ban private cars in congested commercial areas.
Private cars provide unmatched convenience and flexibility, which public transport often fails to deliver. Many people rely on their cars due to irregular public transit schedules or inaccessible routes. A blanket ban would disrupt their daily lives and livelihood.
Moreover, banning cars does not address the root problem of congestion. Instead, we should improve traffic management, create multi-level parking lots, and upgrade public transportation systems to attract voluntary users.
The right to personal mobility should not be curtailed, especially when alternative solutions can mitigate congestion without forcing bans. Let us seek balanced approaches instead of drastic measures.
Thank you.
2. 'The policy of reservation of seats for admission to the professional courses is good for the deprived sections of the society.' Write a debate in 120-200 words either for or against the motion.
Debate: The Policy of Reservation of Seats for Admission to Professional Courses
Against the Motion
Good morning, respected chairperson, honourable jury, and dear friends,I stand firmly against the motion that the policy of reservation for admission to professional courses is good for the deprived sections of society.
While the intention behind reservations is noble, its implementation often results in reverse discrimination. Merit and talent take a backseat, and deserving candidates are denied opportunities solely due to their lack of inclusion in the reserved categories. This discourages hard work and promotes mediocrity in professions that demand excellence, such as medicine and engineering.
Moreover, reservations fail to address the root cause of social inequality—lack of access to quality primary and secondary education. Providing free and equitable education to all children, regardless of their background, would be a more sustainable and fair solution.
Reservations often benefit only the economically better-off within the reserved categories, leaving the truly deprived sections untouched. This perpetuates inequality even within these groups.
Equality should mean equal opportunities, not preferential treatment. The policy should focus on empowering individuals through skill development and education rather than restricting opportunities for others. Let merit be the sole criterion for admission to professional courses.
Thank you.
…………………………………………………………………
Debate: The Policy of Reservation of Seats for Admission to Professional Courses
For the Motion
Good morning, respected chairperson, honourable jury, and dear friends,I firmly support the motion that the policy of reservation for admission to professional courses is good for the deprived sections of society.
For centuries, marginalized communities have faced systemic discrimination, resulting in social and economic inequalities. Reservations provide these sections with the opportunities they need to break free from this cycle of oppression and uplift themselves.
Education is a powerful tool for empowerment, and professional courses open doors to stable careers and financial independence. Without reservations, many talented individuals from underprivileged backgrounds would be unable to compete due to their lack of access to quality primary education and resources.
Furthermore, reservations foster inclusivity and diversity in professional fields, ensuring a representation of all sections of society. This not only benefits the individuals but also enriches the broader workforce with diverse perspectives and experiences.
Critics argue that reservations compromise merit, but merit cannot thrive without a level playing field. True equality requires supporting the disadvantaged until they can stand on equal footing with others.
Reservations are not just a privilege—they are a necessary step toward building a more just and equitable society.
Thank you.
