Premium Essay

Debate

In:

Submitted By staciehearne
Words 2591
Pages 11
Team Debate Paper

Stacie Hearne, Manita Johnson, Jessica Lightfoot, and Roy Tucker

BCOM/275

October 4, 2012
Kwanis Nelson

Debate Team Paper

“We hold these truths to be self evident, that all men are created equal, that they are

endowed by their creator with certain inalienable rights that among these are Life, Liberty, and

the pursuit of happiness.” Gay marriage has become one of the hottest issues in politics.

Supporters of gay marriage have compared their struggle for equality to an era when African-

Americans were denied their right to vote, some have even argued that to be denied of your right

to marry is also a direct violation of your civil rights. Non supporters of gay marriage beliefs are

based more from a religious stand point as well personal values. With homosexuality being seen

by a vast majority as being immoral and sinful, the biggest argument to date is that many people

feel by allowing gay marriage to take place that this will weaken the institution of marriage and family values. On September 21, 1996 both houses of Congress passed the Defense of Marriage Act or DOMA a federal law which defines marriage as a legal union between one man and one woman. This law, signed by then President Bill Clinton denies the rights of same-sex couples to marry.
Not only does this law prevent same-sex couples to marry, it also denies these men and women certain monetary benefits such as public employee benefits, social security survivors, government employee benefits. “Justice Ruth Bader-Ginsburg recently suggested at a University of Colorado interview that the Supreme Court could likely decide soon whether the law that bars federal recognition of same –sex marriage is constitutional” (Voorhees, 2012). Today a hotly debated question rages on in the United States, should the institution of marriage be redefined to

Similar Documents

Free Essay

Debate

... “I love argument, I love debate. I don't expect anyone just to sit there and agree with me, that's not their job.” -ate coring "Present your case," says the Lord. "Bring forth your strong reasons," says the King of Jacob. Isaiah 41:21 What is debate? A debate is a contest, or, perhaps, like a game, where two or more speakers present their arguments intent on persuading one another. Men have been debating with one another since the beginning of time when the serpent first debated with Eve the benefits of eating certain fruits in the Garden. We shall limit ourselves here with discussing formal contest debating between educational institutions, or, in the world of homeschooling, between families that choose to bypass educational institutions and educate their children at home. Debate "Present your case," says the Lord. "Bring forth your strong reasons," says the King of Jacob. Isaiah 41:21 What is debate? A debate is a contest, or, perhaps, like a game, where two or more speakers present their arguments intent on persuading one another. Men have been debating with one another since the beginning of time when the serpent first debated with Eve the benefits of eating certain fruits in the Garden. We shall limit ourselves here with discussing formal contest debating between educational institutions, or, in the world of homeschooling, between families that choose to bypass educational institutions and educate their children at home. Why debate? "He [the student debater]...

Words: 4171 - Pages: 17

Premium Essay

Debate

...Debate “If what I said wasn’t true, no one could challenge me because on this subject they are as ignorant as I am.” -Graciano Lopez Jaena- “I love argument, I love debate. I don't expect anyone just to sit there and agree with me, that's not their job.” -ate coring "Present your case," says the Lord. "Bring forth your strong reasons," says the King of Jacob. Isaiah 41:21 What is debate? A debate is a contest, or, perhaps, like a game, where two or more speakers present their arguments intent on persuading one another. Men have been debating with one another since the beginning of time when the serpent first debated with Eve the benefits of eating certain fruits in the Garden. We shall limit ourselves here with discussing formal contest debating between educational institutions, or, in the world of homeschooling, between families that choose to bypass educational institutions and educate their children at home. Debate "Present your case," says the Lord. "Bring forth your strong reasons," says the King of Jacob. Isaiah 41:21 What is debate? A debate is a contest, or, perhaps, like a game, where two or more speakers present their arguments intent on persuading one another. Men have been debating with one another since the beginning of time when the serpent first debated with Eve the benefits of eating certain fruits in the Garden. We shall limit ourselves here with discussing formal contest debating between educational institutions, or, in the world...

Words: 332 - Pages: 2

Free Essay

Debate

...Debate The technique of persuasive argument is a skill that you must acquire in order to participate in a successful debate. The art of being eloquent, choosing your words wisely, and being able to think on your feet, encompasses many of the components that any debater should be able to handle. In our first debate last week, we got off to a bit of an awkward, slow start. A few of us were confused on the format, when to speak, and what to say next. After several people went up and read their paper, it was time for rebuttals. Certain people had no problem getting up in front of the class, and vehemently stating their position on the topic at hand. Once we were able to rebuttal with more ease, the debate went on a little more smoothly. In the middle of the debate, people didn’t want to end the argument as early as we did. We began to think more critically, coming up with better counterarguments and ideas. Considering this was our first debate, I would have to give it a six out of ten. Both teams were strong in some areas, and weak in others. Over time we will become stronger debaters and be able to develop and hone our skills. As we use the middle school format more often, we will become use to it and be prepared with a closing speech from both sides and a stronger opening argument. As captain for the first time and for the rest fo the class, we will be able to strategically plan who will speak next in the middle of the debate. We can send up our stronger members for some tougher...

Words: 291 - Pages: 2

Free Essay

Debate

...Team Debate Paper Team c BCOM/275 June 10, 2013 Rebecca B. Team Debate Paper The second amendment provides that “a well-regulated militia, being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms, shall not be infringed.” In short this is a right for civilians to bear arms. This amendment within a group of amendments was written in 1787. When it was drafted as an amendment it was done with the best intentions but lately in today’s society there is a growing argument that begs the questions to revisit this amendment. Everything from a caliber of a weapon to gun laws to background checks has changed drastically, but so have the laws. Some say the laws are fine the way they are, while others say the laws need to be changed. The Pros of Stricter Laws Against Re-selling of Guns and Trafficking Since the resent tragedies involving guns violence continues to increase in the United States, stricter laws against the reselling and trafficking of guns has been a major controversy. One topic up for discussion is whether the trafficking of guns through gun shows and gun dealers can assist in the decrease of gun violence. Bearing arms is the right of the people and to take away guns conflict with these laws. Instead of focusing on banning guns completely, the government should focus on stricter laws regarding the loop holes within the gun shows and the process of purchasing guns from gun dealers. According to “Coalition To Stop Gun Violence”...

Words: 534 - Pages: 3

Free Essay

Debates

...Debates What is debate?  Many people ask and others use the word on time to time basis, but yet many do not really understand the concept.  A debate is a more formal way or contest between two individuals or teams that allows both to reach their different points of view in a non-insulting matter.  If asked for a more broadly in depth explanation, one might be told that it is a vital tool used for maintaining and developing.  Because two opposing sides have a debate over a certain topics does not guarantee they will end in a result of agreement. When thinking about a debate we do not give much thought to the possibilities it can give a group of students.  Thus one might ask “Why have a debate in a classroom as an activity?”, a debate in a classroom offers lasting and profound benefits to the individuals.  When preparing for a debate a student will emphasis on critical thinking, efficient communication, independent research and being able to work as a team member, this enlarges their way on critically judging crucial issues.  Knowing how to debate in the proper way gives the individuals the proper skills to serve in the real work such as the workplace, political life and more importantly fulfill their responsibilities.  Participating in a debate as a class activity is beneficial for an individual. There are 11 different types of debate formats, and each one have their own time and focus they should be used.  The most common one to use is Parliamentary Debate which is  loosely...

Words: 412 - Pages: 2

Free Essay

Debate

...Opposition 4. Deputy Leader of the Opposition 3. Closing Government (third faction): 5. Member for the Government 6. Government Whip 4. Closing Opposition (fourth faction): 7. Member for the Opposition 8. Opposition Whip Speaking alternates between the two sides and the order of the debate is therefore: 1. Prime Minister 2. Leader of the Opposition 3. Deputy Prime Minister 4. Deputy Leader of the Opposition 5. Member for the Government 6. Member for the Opposition 7. Government Whip 8. Opposition Whip ------------------------------------------------- [edit]Roles As British Parliamentary debates take place between four teams their roles are split into two categories, those for the Opening factions, and those for the Closing factions. [edit]Opening factions The first faction on each Government and Opposition team, known as the Opening Factions, has four basic roles in a British Parliamentary debate. They must: * Define the motion of the debate. * Present their case. * Respond to arguments of the opposing first faction. * Maintain their relevance during the debate. The Opening Government team has the semi-divine right of definition, preventing the opposition from challenging their definition of the motion unless it is either a truism or clearly unreasonable. [edit]Closing factions The role of the second two factions are to: *...

Words: 3575 - Pages: 15

Premium Essay

Debate Paper

...Group Analysis and Debate Paper University of Phoenix XBCOM/275 Fredrick Dean September 13, 2015 The topic of debate might sometimes hold a negative connotation, as people associate having a debate with having an intense argument with an individual or group or individuals. However having a debate can sometimes be very beneficial, as it is as a way to see a belief or idea from other’s perspectives. A debate is a formal discussion on a particular topic in a public meeting or legislative assembly, in which opposing arguments are put forward. It is an essential tool for developing and maintaining democracy and open societies. Having a debate can be done individually or in a group setting. When debating with a group, it can have both benefits and drawbacks. Having a debate enables individuals to think critically and analyze situations in order to formulate new ideas. The biggest difference between one-on-one debate and group debate is the number of different viewpoints. However, this is a benefit as well because you get the opportunity to see things from other vantage points. In this respect, an open mind is needed, as it makes it easier to receive information and evaluate it. Group debates are also an excellent way to exercise critical thinking skills, communication skills, and active listening. Group debates also allow the opportunity to exercise self-control, as you have to allow others the opportunity to express themselves without interruption, and also not to get angry...

Words: 360 - Pages: 2

Free Essay

Group Debate

...Group Debate Analysis Paper Rachel Hammond August 29, 2015 COM 275 Lorelle Davies   A formal school debate, the advantages are many. The student gets to improve his or her speaking skills. They get to learn to use words that are more technical, but are not considered jargon. They have learn how to use proper grammar, or else their adjudicators will criticize them. Debaters learn how to expand the points they have to fit a specific period. Another important advantage of a debate is that they learn how to think outside the box. In a debate, failure to anticipate what the opposition's points will be is a sign of narrow mindedness. You must always have better, unanticipated by the opposition rebuttals, and debate helps develop this. In British Parliament format, there are two teams within a house, and the closing team will have to provide 'new light' to the opening team's government. Providing "new light" on a subject is easier said than done, because the opening goes first, and they will have all easy arguments and closing would have to think of something better. Debaters who think critically will successfully rebut the opposition's points. Debating helps students become creative when it comes to making points for frequently debated topics. The debate also teaches students how to research better, as they need this to make points and arguments. Debating also enhances teamwork and friendly competition. Debating teaches students how to act under pressure and how to...

Words: 376 - Pages: 2

Free Essay

Debate Paper

...Associated with Group Debates Competitive debate in any format sharpens the ability to research and analyze problems, think and listen critically by expressing thoughts clearly and fluently. It increases your confidence and poise and provides constant intellectual stimulation. Group formatted debates gives each debater an active role, members are generally randomly placed into groups of only two or three on each team, resulting in four to six debaters for each topic. When debates are set up in a group manner, people who make up the audience benefit from critically evaluating of each debaters on content, involvement, language, and speech; fishbowl discussions used in the fields have demonstrated positive learning opportunities for participates. Some drawbacks to these type of debating style are more reserved people are less likely to actively participate and there a tendency for males to be more comfortable than females in adversarial environments and the preference of some cultural groups for harmony over open opposition. This debate format has been criticized for oversimplifying complex issues into dichotomous options. The use of groups debating in front of the rest of the class allows for diverse evaluation of the issues by the student listeners, who are observing the debaters. The people who are listening are less focused on winning or losing the debate and can offer critical evaluation of the arguments presented. During the discussions following the debate people may assess...

Words: 363 - Pages: 2

Free Essay

Grandes Debates

...problemas que aquejan a la sociedad, motivo lo que nos estimula a seguir adelante, combatir y enfrentarnos contra la desigualdad. En 1930, aun cuando se había proclamado la abolición de la esclavitud, en el mundo todavía persistían las desvinculaciones económicas, sociales, y grandes problemas de igualdad racial. “Grandes debates” es una película muy inspiradora que nos brinda un mensaje de aliento a toda la humanidad para que luchemos por la igualdad, la libertad y la justicia, y de esta forma vencer la discriminación racial en la sociedad. Además de representar un testimonio de los enfrentamientos entre blancos y negros, Grandes Debates, simboliza la perspectiva del poeta Melvin Tolson, sobre cuatro jóvenes afroamericanos que tenían el propósito de ser diferentes en la sociedad, y vencer en un campeonato de debates, a Harvard, una de las universidades más reconocidas e influyentes de los Estados Unidos. Tolson selecciona a cuatro miembros: Henry Lowe, Samantha Booke, James Farmer y Hamilton Burgess. Estas valientes figuras tenían en sus manos la misión esencial de luchar para alcanzar la equidad y la justicia. Los cuatro miembros del equipo de debate enfrentaban cada día las más crueles manifestaciones de maltrato, desempleo, miseria y violencia en Texas. Asimismo, su profesor, Melvin Tolson, les explicaba como hasta en el diccionario la palabra denigrante que significa “ nigro” difamar, ennegrecer” asocia el color negro al fracaso. Como podemos percatarnos, la influencia...

Words: 1002 - Pages: 5

Premium Essay

Debate Outcomes

...Debate Outcomes Credible sources are always a topic for debate. What is a credible source and what is not a credible source. By definition, credible means “offering reasonable grounds for being believed.” ("Merriam-Webster", 2011) Therefore a credible source is information that is true and believable. One of the sources that we discussed and debated in class is Wikipedia. “Wikipedia is an online open-content collaborative encyclopedia.......” "Wikipedia:general Disclaimer" (2011) So what about Wikipedia does or does not make it a credible source. Below I will discuss the debate outcomes, the arguments between both sides, and my reasoning for choosing the against side. An argument was developed based on debate outcomes Based on the debate outcomes from the group, there were many good points in reasoning why Wikipedia is or is not a credible source. The group came up with approximately 26 points that were either against or for Wikipedia being a credible source. The debate was very active leaving everyone a good foundation on what each person thought about the topic. The four steps for presenting arguments fairly were used to develop the argument Each person has their opinion on what they feel about the credibility and reliability of Wikipedia. Some believed that Wikipedia is not a reliable source because anyone can create an account and update information whereas others may think that to be a positive aspect. They feel because anyone can create an account, this gives the opportunity...

Words: 312 - Pages: 2

Premium Essay

Speech and Debate

...A Bill to Reform foreign aid Section 1. The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) shall be given $50,000,000 to create the Board of Progressive Development. Section 2. The Board of Progressive Development shall be tasked with reviewing all foreign aid that the United States Agency for International Development gives or administers to determine whether or not that aid is beneficial to the economy of the country receiving aid. a. Should the board of progressive development determine that aid is not beneficial to the economy of the country receiving aid, it shall have the authority to terminate the continuation of that aid. Section 3. The United States Agency for International Development shall be responsible for the implementation of funding. A. The U.S. Government and Accountability Office shall perform yearly assessments in order to ensure that all funding from this legislation is being used efficiently. SECTION 4. The provisions of this bill shall take effect at the beginning of the next fiscal year. Section 5. All laws in conflict with this legislation are hereby declared null and void. A BILL TO LOWER THE DRINKING AGE TO 18 SECTION 1 Be it enacted by this Student Congress that the legal drinking age be changed from 21 to 18. SECTION 2 18 is the age of adulthood in the United States, and adults should have the right to make their own decisions about alcohol...

Words: 337 - Pages: 2

Free Essay

Debate as a Teaching Strategy

...Debate as a Teaching Strategy Cinthya Alicea Keiser University Debate as a Teaching Strategy Communication is the most crucial part of human interaction. There are many benefits to effective communication which enhance aspects of our personal everyday lives. There is also misunderstood communication which results in a vain outcome and can lead to embarrassment or even more serious results in an adult’s life. Public speaking today is not rare, we go on about our daily lives communicating with people throughout our day whether it be work related or just speaking socially for recreational purposes. Public speaking promotes communication for important messages or simply for teaching purposes. When we combine communication and teaching we can create great lectures but when we involve our listeners and interact with one another we create a debate. This paper is going to promote the benefits and applicable use of debate as a teaching strategy. There are many teaching strategies used today. Each is specifically distinguished and with its own discipline. Teaching strategies break off into braches to create types of lectures that fit with the learning styles of the students. There are a number of teaching strategies, some are: Role playing; where simulations in class can be an excellent way to engage students. Case studies; these have been used for actively engaging students in problem solving applicable to their discipline. Effective discussions; engage students in thinking and...

Words: 1611 - Pages: 7

Premium Essay

Senior Debate Reflection

...helped me with my public speaking was my senior debate. I still remember walking into room 204, trying to contain my nervous laughter. My body was shaking as my mind was busy imagining myself messing up the entire debate. Our debate topic was on, when felons are released from prison should they get their rights back? My partner and I were on the opposing team. A lot of research went into and was needed for this topic, we looked up, read, studied, and broke down all the information we found regarding our topic. Anything that could help us back up what we were trying to prove. My weakest point through all of this was preparing for speaking in front of the class. My teacher, Ms. Sowers assigned us to write...

Words: 739 - Pages: 3

Premium Essay

Debates Analysis Prper

...Group Debates Analysis Paper Myrnia Brown XBCOM/275 June 15, 2014 Velvalee Wiley Group Debates Analysis Paper A debate is an art of reasoning and clever wording to persuade an audience of an individual or group opinion regarding the interpretation of facts and ideas (Gamble, 2012). Debates can be performed individually or in groups, there are both benefits and drawbacks to a debate and how they are performed. Group debates consist of more than two people on both teams; affirmative and negative. There are more benefits and drawbacks when analyzing a group debate. A group debate has its benefits and they are extensive, from expansive knowledge to comradely. When there is more than one person on a debate side all the different ways one opinions is expressed can make the viewpoint more clearly for any persons “sitting on the fence”. All of the opinions put together can give a broad spectrum of information on the given topic, allowing for each team member to see the topic in a different light. With more people on a team there is more knowledge that can pooled together to pick which bit of information is more relevant and can be a stronger hitting point for the opposing team, also each person can be given a specific job based upon their strengths to help the team collect information and deliver their statements. Not every person on the team will have come from the same education lesson or background so they can have different perspectives on how the...

Words: 377 - Pages: 2