ENGLISH PAPER ASSIGMENT

Academic Debate
Lecturer: Zahratul Maujudatul Mufidah ,M.Pd

Complied By:

Moh. Rizki Al Farisi (232101060016)

Mesya Safira Wulandari (233101060001)
Sulistiana Khofifah (232101060038)
Dina Amalia (232101060042)
Putri Andani (232101060032)
ENGLISH DEPARTEMENT STUDY PROGRAM
FACULTY OF EDUCATION AND TEACHER TRINING
ISLAMIC UNIVERSITY OF KIAI HAJI ACHMAD SHDDIQ JEMBER 2025
APRIL 2025
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 PREFACE

Nothing that we could say except praise and thank to Allah. SWT. Because of
his mercy we could finished this assignment on time without any obstacles under the
tittle Academic Debate. The second is, Sholawat and salam to our prophet
Muhammad SAW. Who has guide us from the dark age to the bright age.

This paper was made from a lot of and various of site and journal. That
become tis assignment as a study for the whole class experiences and observation.
Good to know that this research wasn’t as perfect as the other assignment, because of
deadline that we could fulfill. Therefore, wrtiters hope that if you find any mistake in
this assignment, pardon me, because we are as a human won’t miss any mistake in
our journes, as a preference, annasu akanilkhata’ wan nisyan.

Jember, 14 April 2024

Authors

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 TABLE OF CONTENT
Klik di sini untuk memasukkan teks.PREFACE....................................................................i

TABLE OF CONTENT..............................................................................................ii
CHAPTER I INTRODUCTION................................................................................1
..........................................................................................................1
A. Background
............................................................................................1
B. Question of Problem
C. Objective..............................................................................................................2
CHAPTER II DISCUSSION......................................................................................3
A. Definition of Debate.................................................................................................3
B. Strategies of Debate..................................................................................................3
C. Rules of Debate.........................................................................................................5
D. Body Language of Debate........................................................................................7
E. Structure of Debate..................................................................................................11
F. Practice Debate Class..............................................................................................12
CHAPTER III CLOSING.........................................................................................14
A. Conclusion......................................................................................................14
REFERENCE.............................................................................................................15

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 CHAPTER I

INTRODUCTION
A. Background

Academic debate is a structured form of intellectual discourse that

emphasizes logical argumentation, critical analysis, and effective rhetoric.
Within the educational context, debate serves not merely as a platform for
expressing opinions, but as a dynamic tool for developing critical thinking skills,
enhancing public speaking abilities, and deepening understanding of complex
social, political, economic, and cultural issues.

In many educational institutions, academic debate has become an

essential component of student development, particularly in cultivating soft
skills. With its systematic format and rules, academic debate trains participants to
construct well-founded arguments based on facts, theories, and relevant
precedents. Furthermore, it encourages intellectual engagement with opposing
viewpoints and fosters respectful dialogue.

In today’s era of globalization and information disruption, the ability to

think analytically and articulate ideas clearly is increasingly vital. Academic
debate, therefore, plays a significant role in shaping individuals who are not only
intellectually competent but also capable of reasoned argument and open-minded
discussion. As such, it contributes meaningfully to the development of well-
rounded, thoughtful, and articulate future leaders.

B. Question of Problem

Based on the above background, the problem formulation that will be

discussed in the paper on Academic Deabte is as follows:
 what is debate?
 What are the Strategies of Debate?

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  What are the Rules of Debate?
 What are the Body Language of Debate?
 What are the Structure of Debate?
 How to Practice Debate Class?

C. Objective

The objective of learning academic debate is to develop critical thinking

skills, enhance public speaking abilities, and train students to construct and
deliver logical, well-structured arguments. It also aims to foster open-mindedness
toward differing opinions, build teamwork and collaboration, and improve active
listening and thoughtful response skills. Through this process, students become
more confident in expressing their ideas while growing into analytical,
communicative, and tolerant individuals capable of engaging in constructive
discourse.

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 CHAPTER II

DISCUSSION

A. Definition of Debate

Debate is a form of structured oral communication, in which two or

more parties put forward arguments to defend a particular opinion or point of
view on a predetermined issue or motion. In a debate, there are those who
support (pro) and those who reject (con). Each party is required to provide
logical, critical arguments supported by strong evidence to strengthen their
position.

B. Strategies of Debate

1. Understanding the Format

Before developing a strategy, it is important to understand the

format of academic debates. Debates usually use the *British
Parliamentary (BP)* or *Asian Parliamentary (AP)* format, each of
which has a different structure and rules that will affect the debate
strategy that will be applied.

2. General Strategy in Academic Debate

a. Preparation Strategy

- Research: Study the issue from various perspectives,

including political, economic, social, and cultural.

- Case Building: Prepare the main arguments

(contentions) and supporting data or relevant facts.

- Role Assignment: Determine who will be the opening

argument, strengthening, and closing in the debate.

b. Opening Strategy

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- Begin by providing a clear definition of the motion
being discussed.

- Explain the framework and scope of the debate to

provide a better understanding.

- Present the main argument and explain why it is

logically significant.

c. Rebuttal Strategy

- Listen attentively to the opposing side's argument.

- Challenge the logic, relevance, or evidence they

present in their argument.

- Use the "point-by-point" rebuttal technique, then

redirect the discussion back to your team's argument to
restore focus.

d. Extension Strategy (If in the second spokesperson

position)

- Add new analysis or perspective that has not been

expressed by the opening team.

- Avoid repetition; show new, meaningful contributions

to the debate.

e. Closing Strategy/Summary

- Strengthen your team's position by summarizing the

strongest arguments that have been presented.

- Highlight inconsistencies in the opposing side's

argument.

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 - Focus on impact, and explain why your team's
argument has the greatest impact.

3. Rhetorical Strategy

- Utilize logic (logos), emotion (pathos), and credibility (ethos)

in delivering messages.

- Vary your tone of voice and reinforce it with convincing body

language.

- Include analogies or concrete examples to strengthen and

clarify the arguments presented.

C. Rules of Debate

1. Team Structure

- Two teams : Affirmative (pro) and Negative (contra).

- Each team usually has 3 speakers.

2. Speaker Roles

- First Speaker: Defines the motion, presents the main

arguments.

- Second Speaker: Continues with arguments and rebuts the

opposing team.

- Third Speaker: Focuses on rebuttals and summarizes the

team’s case.

- Reply Speaker (optional): Gives a summary and highlights the

team’s strengths (usually done by first or third speaker).

3. Speaking Time

- Each speaker gets 5–7 minutes.

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- Reply speeches are shorter, around 3–4 minutes.

- Timekeepers may give signals (e.g., bell or knock) to indicate

time.

4. Rebuttal

- Crucial in debate: attacking the opponent’s arguments.

- Must be logical, relevant, and respectful

5. Point of Information (POI)

- Can be offered during an opponent’s speech (after the first

minute and before the last minute).

- The speaker may accept or decline.

- Should be brief (10–15 seconds).

6. Manner, Matter, and Method

- Manner: Style, confidence, eye contact, and voice.

- Matter: Content, argument quality, evidence.

- Method: Structure and organization of the speech.

7. Respect and Decorum

- No personal attacks or insults.

- Respect the moderator, timekeeper, and fellow debaters.

8. Decision

- Judges evaluate based on content, delivery, and rebuttal.

- The winning team is the one with the stronger, clearer, and more
convincing case.

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D. Body Language of Debate

1. The Importance of Body Language in Debates

Body language plays a central role in debates, often

conveying messages more powerfully than words alone.
Effective use of nonverbal communication can reinforce a
speaker’s credibility, enhance the clarity of arguments, and
influence how the audience perceives the speaker’s intentions
and confidence. In a high-stakes setting like a debate, where
both logic and presence matter, body language becomes a
silent partner in persuasion. There are several core functions
of body language that are particularly significant during a
debate: conveying confidence, emphasizing points, and
managing perception.

A. Showing Confidence
Your body language is often the first thing people
notice before you even start speaking. It sends a strong
message about how prepared and confident you are.
a. Maintain steady eye contact: This shows that you are
focused and not afraid to speak.
b. Stand or sit upright with relaxed shoulders: Good posture
signals confidence and readiness.
c. Control your gestures: Avoid fidgeting or making too many
hand movements, as it can look nervous or distracting.

When you look confident, people are more likely to

listen to and trust you—even before you start explaining your
argument.

B. Emphasizing Key Points

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 Body language helps your audience know what parts of
your argument are the most important. You can make your
message more memorable with simple physical cues.
a. Use your fingers to count points: This gives structure and
clarity to your speech.
b. Show open palms: This creates a feeling of honesty and
openness.
c. Lean slightly forward when making a strong point: It shows
passion and encourages your audience to listen closely.

These small actions support your words and help your

audience stay engaged.

C. Shaping Audience Perception

The way you move and express yourself affects how

people feel about you. They are not only listening—they're
watching, too.

a. Use facial expressions that match your message:For

example, look serious when discussing serious topics, and
smile when appropriate.
b. Avoid nervous habits like blinking too much or shifting
your eyes: These can make you look unsure.
c. Keep a calm, focused look: This helps you appear more
trustworthy and in control.

When your nonverbal cues match your words, you seem

more sincere and convincing.

2. Effective Techniques for Using Body Language in

Debates

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 To communicate effectively during a debate, a speaker
must manage not only their arguments but also their delivery.
Body language enhances the spoken message and helps
establish presence, confidence, and credibility. Four key
techniques to master include maintaining eye contact, having
proper posture, using controlled gestures, and aligning facial
expressions with speech.

a. Eye Contact

Maintaining steady eye contact with the audience or the

opponent builds trust and signals attentiveness. It shows that
the speaker is confident and focused. Avoiding eye contact—
such as constantly looking down or to the side—can make the
speaker appear unsure, distracted, or even unprepared.
Effective debaters use natural eye contact to connect with
listeners and emphasize sincerity.

b. Posture
An upright posture with relaxed shoulders projects calm
authority and readiness. Whether standing or sitting, the
speaker should avoid slouching, leaning too much to one
side, or appearing stiff. Poor posture may signal anxiety, low
confidence, or discomfort, which can weaken the impact of
even the strongest argument. Proper posture enhances both
voice projection and visual presence.
c. Gestures
Purposeful hand movements can help highlight key
points and support the speaker’s verbal delivery. Movements
should be deliberate and kept below shoulder level to avoid
overwhelming the audience. For example, counting on fingers

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to list points or using open palms to express sincerity are
effective strategies. However, gestures that are too rapid,
repetitive, or exaggerated can distract from the message and
reduce clarity.
d. Facial Expressions
A debater’s facial expressions should reflect the tone
and content of the message being delivered. Smiling
occasionally makes the speaker appear friendly and
approachable, especially during introductions or lighter
moments. However, expressions must remain appropriate to
the topic. Smiling while delivering a serious or emotional
argument, for instance, can confuse the audience or seem
insincere
By applying these techniques carefully, debaters can
strengthen the way they deliver arguments and enhance
their connection with the audience. Effective body language
not only adds emphasis but also reinforces the speaker’s
message, making it more impactful and memorable.
3. Common Pitfalls in Using Body Language During
Debates

While body language can significantly enhance a

speaker’s message, improper use of nonverbal cues can have
the opposite effect. Many debaters unintentionally weaken
their performance by sending mixed signals or engaging in
distracting behaviors. Being aware of these common mistakes
is essential for anyone aiming to communicate more clearly
and effectively.

a. Overusing gestures

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 Hand gestures are useful for emphasis, but when used
excessively or without control, they can distract the audience
from the content of the argument. Rapid or random hand
movements may shift attention away from the speaker’s
ideas and give the impression of nervousness or lack of
structure. Gestures should be purposeful and limited to
moments that truly require visual emphasis.
b. Displaying nervous habits
Movements such as fidgeting, rocking back and forth,
or repeatedly adjusting clothing are often signs of anxiety.
These small actions, though sometimes unconscious, can
signal a lack of confidence and reduce the speaker’s
credibility. Audiences may focus more on these distractions
than on the argument being made. To avoid this, speakers
should practice staying still and grounded while speaking,
moving only when it adds meaning.
c. Misaligned facial expressions
One of the most confusing mistakes a speaker can
make is using facial expressions that do not match the
content of their message. For example, smiling while
delivering a serious or emotional point may confuse the
audience and reduce the impact of the argument. Facial
expressions should always align with the tone of the speech
to maintain clarity, sincerity, and emotional consistency.
Recognizing and correcting these habits requires self-
awareness and practice. By minimizing these common
pitfalls, debaters can ensure that their body language
supports rather than distracts from their message. When

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 verbal and nonverbal communication are in harmony, the
speaker becomes more persuasive and memorable.

E. Structure of Debate

The debate text is organized systematically based on the debate text

structure. The structure of the debate text consists of:

1. Introduction

First, the introduction. In the introduction section, the moderator

delivers opening greetings and introduces the party or team that will
debate.

A moderator is the leader of a session, meeting, or discussion,

who acts as a director and mediator. In addition to introducing the
debating parties, the moderator also conveys the motion of the debate that
will take place.

2. Argumentation

Second, the presentation of arguments. The submission of

arguments is delivered by the affirming party, the opposition party, and
the neutral/middle party (if any).

The affirming party is the party that supports the motion or is pro
to the motion. The opposition party is the party that opposes the motion or
is against the motion. The neutral/middle party is the party who is neutral
and acts as a mediator in the debate. This neutral party is optional or does
not have to be present in the debate.

3. Debat

Third, is the debate. In this part, the affirming party and the
opposition give rebuttals to each other, then mediated by a neutral party.
If there is no neutral party, it may be mediated by the moderator as the

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 leader of the debate. Well, this part is the funniest part of the whole
debate!

4. Conclusion

Fourth, the conclusion. In this section, the affirmation party,

opposition party, and neutral party convey conclusions related to motions,
opinions, and rebuttals from other teams.

5. Closing

Fifth, the closing. In this section, the moderator gives an overall

conclusion without taking sides, then closes the debate activity with
greetings.

F. Practice Debate Class

Debate practice in the classroom is a good method to develop students'

speaking ability. Students can improve their communication and pronunciation
skills as well as develop their critical thinking skills through debate. As a result,
debate is advised as a method for teaching speaking. Through debate, the
students are expected to be fluent in speaking English. However, there are some
procedures that must be followed when you want to conduct a debate in the
classroom. The procedures are:

A. Pre-debate activities

1) Teacher explains about debate.

2) The students are divided into two types of groups: affirmative and
negative, and each group consists of three students.

3) The debate battle will take place with 2 groups as affirmative and
negative which is decided by lucky draw.

4) Each battle will debate one motion which is decided by the teacher.

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 5) The teacher gives a general explanation about the motion

6) The teacher plays role as an adjudicator and chairperson, and other

groups that is not performing debate act as an audience.

B. Debate activities

1) Each group is expected to prepare for the debate session with

exploring the motion from references.

2) Each group is given several times to discuss about the motion and to
build a case.

3) The time is given to the affirmative group to define the motion and
build their case theme.

4) The first speaker of affirmative group speaks for about 5 minutes.

5) Next is negative group to rebut and build their arguments.

6) The first speaker of negative group speaks for 5 minutes.

7) Three times, it runs the same way until the third speaker of negative
group is finished to deliver his/her speech. Finally, each group
chooses one speaker to conclude each team’s point of view for
about 3 minutes.

C. Post-debate activities

1) The teacher and the audiences give comments on the groups’

performance.

2) The teacher who act as an adjudicator decide the winner of the

debate.

3)

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 CHAPTER 3
CLOSING
A. Conclusion
Academic debate is a valuable educational activity that enhances
various essential skills, including critical thinking, logical reasoning, public
speaking, and respectful communication. Through structured argumentation
and strategic interaction, students learn to express their opinions clearly while
responding to opposing views with poise and logic. The integration of debate
in academic settings promotes intellectual growth and shapes individuals into
articulate and confident communicators.
The success of academic debate depends not only on content
knowledge but also on the understanding of its structure, rules, and effective
strategies. From preparing arguments to delivering rebuttals and managing
body language, each component plays a crucial role in persuasive
communication. The ability to use gestures, eye contact, and facial expressions
appropriately further strengthens the delivery and impact of arguments in a
competitive environment.
Implementing debate practices in the classroom provides a dynamic
and interactive way to improve students’ speaking and analytical skills. By
following pre-debate, during-debate, and post-debate procedures, educators
can ensure an effective and engaging learning experience. Ultimately,
academic debate not only supports language development but also fosters
critical awareness, teamwork, and the confidence needed for academic and
real-world success.

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 REFERENCE

Daily Trojan. (2012). Body language is important in presidential

debates. Retrieved from https://dailytrojan.com (accessed on April
2025).

Freely, A. J., & Steinberg, D. L. (2009). Argumentation and Debate:

Critical Thinking for Reasoned Decision Making. Wadsworth
Cengage Learning.

Politico. (2024). A former FBI agent decoded Biden and Trump's

body language at the debate. Retrieved from
https://www.politico.com (accessed on April 2025).

Scales, M. (2024). Presidential debates offer body language tips for

job interviews. Wake Forest University Schools of Business.
Retrieved from https://business.wfu.edu (accessed on April 2025).

Snider, A. C., & Schnurer, M. (2002). Many Sides: Debate Across the
Curriculum. IDEA (International Debate Education Association).

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