DB8 Speech & Debate Academy
Unit 2 · Lesson 2 4 min

Writing a Killer AGD

The first 15 seconds decide if the judge actually listens to the next 165.

Three flavors that work

(1) Concrete story — one real person in trouble. (2) Shocking stat — a number nobody expects. (3) Sharp quote — short, famous, on point.

What NOT to do

Skip 'Today I'd like to talk about…' That's an intro to your intro. Open IN the moment. 'In 2023, Maria — a school nurse in Ohio — bought a single inhaler for $700.'

Worked example

Bill: Cap insulin at $35/month.

Weak AGD: 'Today I want to talk about insulin prices.' Strong AGD: 'Last June, Alec Smith died at 26 — three days after rationing the insulin he couldn't afford.'

Quick Check
  1. 1. Worst AGD opener:

Answer all 1 to check.

Takeaway

Open IN the scene — never 'about' the scene.