Debates

Question 1

resolution

Answer 1

the statement (not a question!) that is being debated, often a “should” statement.

Question 2

affirmative side (or “pro”) side

Answer 2

agrees with or supports the resolution and presents claims, evidence, and reasoning for why this resolution is true and the status quo should be changed.

Question 3

negative side (or “con”) side

Answer 3

does NOT agree with the resolution, and this side presents claims, evidence, and reasoning for why the affirmative side and the resolution are wrong.

Question 4

contentions

Answer 4

major arguments or reasons

Question 5

expert testimony

Answer 5

using comments from someone who has worked extensively in that area

Question 6

statistics

Answer 6

using numerical data (percentages, odds, information)

Question 7

analogies

Answer 7

comparing one thing to another

Question 8

anecdotes

Answer 8

examples of situations and people

Question 9

ethos

Answer 9

credibility or trustworthiness

Question 10

pathos

Answer 10

emotion or feeling

Question 11

logos

Answer 11

rational logic

Question 12

rebuttal

Answer 12

a response to the opponent that shows why the opponent’s contentions and/or evidence are wrong and hence why the opponent’s position is wrong.