■
Debate & Speech
Writing Guide
Class 9–12 | Both Levels | Formats, Samples & Exercises
Debate Structure • For & Against • Counter-Arguments
Speech Writing • Persuasive Language • Sample Debates • Practice Topics
Everything you need to write and deliver winning debates and speeches
© Study Notes | Class 9–12 English Series
, Table of Contents
What is a Debate?
1
Format, roles, rules, and how debates are judged
Debate Structure
2
How to organise your arguments effectively
Persuasive Language & Techniques
3
Rhetorical devices that make arguments powerful
Counter-Arguments & Rebuttal
4
How to challenge opposing views respectfully
Speech Writing
5
Format and techniques for formal speeches
Sample Debate — For & Against
6
Full annotated debate on a Class 9–12 topic
Sample Speech
7
Annotated formal speech with techniques labelled
Practice Topics & Exercises
8
20 debate topics + writing practice tasks
, CHAPTER 1
What is a Debate?
Format, roles, and how debates are judged
A debate is a structured, formal argument between two sides on a given topic
called a 'motion'. One side argues FOR the motion (Proposition) and the other
argues AGAINST it (Opposition).
Element Details
The Motion A statement that can be argued for or against: 'This House believes that
social media does more harm than good.'
Proposition The side that AGREES with the motion. Must prove the motion is true.
Opposition The side that DISAGREES with the motion. Must disprove the
proposition's arguments.
Speaker Order Speaker 1 (Prop) → Speaker 1 (Opp) → Speaker 2 (Prop) → Speaker 2
(Opp) → Summary speeches
Time Limit Each speaker usually gets 3–5 minutes. A warning bell rings 30 seconds
before time.
Judging Criteria Content & arguments (40%), Language & vocabulary (30%), Delivery &
confidence (30%)
■ Tip: In written debate tasks (board exams), you are usually asked to write ONE
speech — either for or against. You do NOT need to write both sides.
Debate & Speech
Writing Guide
Class 9–12 | Both Levels | Formats, Samples & Exercises
Debate Structure • For & Against • Counter-Arguments
Speech Writing • Persuasive Language • Sample Debates • Practice Topics
Everything you need to write and deliver winning debates and speeches
© Study Notes | Class 9–12 English Series
, Table of Contents
What is a Debate?
1
Format, roles, rules, and how debates are judged
Debate Structure
2
How to organise your arguments effectively
Persuasive Language & Techniques
3
Rhetorical devices that make arguments powerful
Counter-Arguments & Rebuttal
4
How to challenge opposing views respectfully
Speech Writing
5
Format and techniques for formal speeches
Sample Debate — For & Against
6
Full annotated debate on a Class 9–12 topic
Sample Speech
7
Annotated formal speech with techniques labelled
Practice Topics & Exercises
8
20 debate topics + writing practice tasks
, CHAPTER 1
What is a Debate?
Format, roles, and how debates are judged
A debate is a structured, formal argument between two sides on a given topic
called a 'motion'. One side argues FOR the motion (Proposition) and the other
argues AGAINST it (Opposition).
Element Details
The Motion A statement that can be argued for or against: 'This House believes that
social media does more harm than good.'
Proposition The side that AGREES with the motion. Must prove the motion is true.
Opposition The side that DISAGREES with the motion. Must disprove the
proposition's arguments.
Speaker Order Speaker 1 (Prop) → Speaker 1 (Opp) → Speaker 2 (Prop) → Speaker 2
(Opp) → Summary speeches
Time Limit Each speaker usually gets 3–5 minutes. A warning bell rings 30 seconds
before time.
Judging Criteria Content & arguments (40%), Language & vocabulary (30%), Delivery &
confidence (30%)
■ Tip: In written debate tasks (board exams), you are usually asked to write ONE
speech — either for or against. You do NOT need to write both sides.
