Argumentation & Debate Assignment Sequence

Objective: Develop a clear, debatable proposition supported by preliminary research.

Due Date: [Week 2]

Requirements

• Select a debatable topic relevant to the course themes
• Write a clear claim/proposition statement (one sentence, affirmative position)
• Provide an annotated bibliography of 5 credible sources:
  • 3 sources supporting your claim
  • 2 sources presenting alternative perspectives
• For each source, include:
  • Full citation (APA or MLA)
  • 2-3 sentence summary
  • Brief note on credibility/relevance

Submission Format: 2-3 pages, typed

Objective: Develop deep understanding by arguing the opposing side of your claim.

Due Date: [Week 4]

Requirements

• Argue AGAINST your original claim
• Identify and explain 3 strongest arguments opposing your position
• For each opposing argument:
  • Present the argument clearly and fairly
  • Cite evidence from research
  • Explain why this argument is compelling
• Write 1-2 paragraphs reflecting on what you learned by engaging with the opposition

📚 Resource: Building a Counterargument — curated writing center guides on steel-manning, avoiding straw man fallacies, and reflective writing.

Submission Format: 3-4 pages, typed

Objective: Build your affirmative case strengthened by understanding the opposition.

Due Date: [Week 6]

Requirements

• Present YOUR position (original claim)
• Develop 2 main arguments supporting your claim:
  • Each argument should have a clear warrant (reasoning)
  • Each argument should include credible evidence
  • Each argument should anticipate and address potential counterarguments
• Include a brief section explaining how your opposition research (Assignment 2) strengthened your case
• Conclude with 2 thoughtful questions you would ask the opposing side in a debate

Submission Format: 4-5 pages, typed

Objective: Distill your argument into a structured outline for oral presentation.

Due Date: [Week 8]

Requirements

Part A: Formal Outline (3 points)

Create a detailed outline including:

• Opening statement (attention-getter, claim, preview of arguments)
• Argument 1 (claim, warrant, evidence, response to potential objection)
• Argument 2 (claim, warrant, evidence, response to potential objection)
• 2 questions for opposing side
• Closing/summary statement

Part B: Note Cards (2 points)

• Transfer outline to 3x5 index cards (or similar)
• Maximum of 6 cards
• Key points only - no full sentences or paragraphs
• Must be legible and organized
• Include source citations on cards for evidence

Submission Format: Outline: Typed, 2-3 pages. Note cards: Physical cards submitted in class.

Objective: Present your argument effectively in a structured debate format.

Performance Date: [Week 10]

Format

• Groups of 4 students (2 affirmative, 2 negative on related propositions)
• Each student presents using ONLY their note cards (no technology)
• STRICT RULE: If you use a laptop, phone, tablet, or any other electronic device during your debate performance, you will receive a ZERO for the ENTIRE PROJECT (all 30 points), not just the performance component.

Time limits:

• Opening statement: 2 minutes
• Argument 1: 3 minutes
• Argument 2: 3 minutes
• Questions to opposition: 2 minutes (1 minute per question)
• Closing statement: 1 minute

Assignment Sequence Overview

Assignment	Points	Focus	Due
1. Research & Claim	5	Topic selection, initial research	Week 2
2. Opposition Brief	5	Understanding opposing arguments	Week 4
3. Argument Construction	7	Building affirmative case	Week 6
4. Debate Outline & Cards	5	Preparation for oral presentation	Week 8
5. Debate Performance	8	Live debate delivery	Week 10
TOTAL	30