EDITING A DEBATE

A debate is a discussion in which people or groups state different opinions about a subject. The objective of those involved is to persuade the audience so that they can take sides with them.

In a debate, those who are in favour of the motion are called proposers or supporters, while those who oppose the motion are called opposers. The debate must be persuasive enough to convince the listeners.

Salutation and Introduction

The Chairperson,        

Mr./Madam Moderator,

Members of the Jury,

My colleagues on the opposite side,

Ladies and gentlemen,

I stand before you to support or oppose the motion that … Women’s Day is a necessity. It’s a great pleasure for me to participate in this debate in favour of or against the motion that …

At times, in examinations, the candidate is given a particular way to begin or end the debate. Once this is the case, the candidate must ensure that the prescribed phrase or sentence is carefully followed and that the punctuation marks are maintained.

 

Concluding a Debate

Debaters usually conclude their debate as follows:

• In conclusion, Mr./Madam Chairperson, ladies and gentlemen, I think that I have succeeded in making the point that …
• Mr./Madam Moderator, ladies and gentlemen, I say without fear …
• I say, with all the emphasis at my command, that …
• Thank you for your keen or kind attention.
• Thanks for listening, etc