The Debate Starter Kit

1. Hook: Open with a statistic, scenario, or clear problem statement.
2. Position: Tell the judge exactly what you are defending.
3. Preview: Name your two or three main arguments.
4. Contention 1: Claim + warrant (reasoning) + impact.
5. Contention 2: Same structure. Add evidence or a concrete example.
6. Refutation: Answer your opponent's best argument directly.
7. Conclusion: Restate your position and end with a call to action.

Use one column per speech. Write each new argument on its own row. Draw responses on the same row. Mark dropped arguments with an X.

1. Claim-Warrant-Impact (10 min): Pick any controversial topic. Write one claim, one sentence of reasoning, and one sentence explaining why it matters.
2. 30-Second Summary (5 min): Explain your position on a topic in exactly 30 seconds without filler words.
3. Flow a Round (15 min): Watch a debate round online and flow it on paper. Circle the arguments still standing at the end.
4. Refutation Fire Drill (10 min): Have a friend give you one argument. You have 2 minutes to prepare and 1 minute to answer it.
5. Impromptu Lightning (10 min): Draw a random topic and speak for 2 minutes with no prep. Record yourself and watch once.