Debate Analysis Worksheet
Analyze and evaluate the structure, arguments, and rhetorical devices used in debates.
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Debate Analysis Worksheet
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Read each question carefully and provide thoughtful responses based on your understanding of debate analysis. You may refer to your notes or other resources as needed.
Consider the following hypothetical debate proposition: 'Be it resolved that social media platforms should be held legally responsible for the spread of misinformation.'
Two teams, the Affirmative and the Negative, will present arguments. The Affirmative team argues *for* the proposition, and the Negative team argues *against* it.
1. Which of the following would be an effective opening statement for the Affirmative team?
Social media is a problem.
Misinformation is harmful, and today we will prove that social media companies must be held accountable for its unchecked dissemination.
The internet has changed a lot.
Holding companies responsible is a complex issue.
2. A speaker who uses emotional appeals to persuade the audience is employing the rhetorical device of .
3. The of a debate is the central statement or claim that is being argued.
4. The Negative team's primary role is to prove their own proposition true.
True
False
5. Explain the purpose of a rebuttal in a debate and provide an example of how the Negative team might rebut an Affirmative argument that 'social media platforms profit from misinformation.'
Match each rhetorical device with its definition.
6. Ethos
a. Appeal to logic and reason
7. Pathos
b. Appeal to credibility or character
8. Logos
c. Appeal to emotion
9. Watch a short debate (e.g., a segment from a presidential debate, a school debate, or a debate clip online). In 150-200 words, analyze the effectiveness of one team's arguments. Consider their use of evidence, rhetorical strategies, and overall delivery.