How to Format a Public Forum Debate Case
Public forum debates are vital events in the world of politics. Public forums may be arranged and hosted by any organized group or body. The purpose of the forum is to display two opposing points of view on political cases. Forums are arranged at all levels of politics -- local to federal -- and open to the public. Forums may even go on in academic environments and student councils. Citizens are encouraged to come to debates and observe the give and take between participants.
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Instructions
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Obtain rules beforehand. Consult with forum organizers and acquire any guidelines set for the debate. Public forum rules will vary depending on the organization hosting the event. Rules may include constraining discussion to the topics on the agenda and limiting question and answer response times for each candidate. Prepare your arguments within the regulations set forth by organizers and moderators.
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Research your case. Obtain all relevant information on topics that will be discussed. Pay particular attention to substantive documentation -- policy papers and academic studies, for example -- to support your position. Craft arguments with innovative positions and use supporting evidence to pad and validate your line of reasoning.
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Organize your cases to argue both issues and policies. Issues are large scale topics and questions: "The United States is Losing the War on Terrorism" or "Is Global Warming An Issue Individual States Can Tackle?" are examples. Policies focus on specific laws and/or courses of action within the issue. Arguing how the War in Afghanistan should be conducted and/or federal positions on the regulation of greenhouse gas emissions are examples. Use your research -- along with important facts and figures -- to craft your arguments.
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Prepare to take affirmative and negative positions. Take stands on every issue and be firm in your reasoning. Make affirmative cases for positions you support and take a negative position on policies with which you disagree. Be ready to back up every position with a solution of your own and, in effect, negate the opposing party's position with the strength of your argument. Develop answers and statements that are clear, concise and on point to stay ahead of the game during the debate.
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Tips & Warnings
Most public forums allow no research or notes during the debate itself -- so prepare wisely.
References
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