Journal #25

Writing a case
* Time Range: 3-4 minutes (500-700 words)
* Clear organization
* Main points are called contentions
* Evidence / Sources

Responsibilities in the debate
* Presenting the case
* Crossfire
* Rebuttal / Rebuilding
* Taking Notes


QUESTIONS TO ASK

Have we made the strongest overall case for our side?
* How many contentions should we have? (3-5 is ideal)
* What are the strongest possible arguments for our side?
* How fast will we have to read the case to fit the time limit?
* How might we best organize our case for maximum impact?
* Have we anticipated the opposition's arguments? Do we have a separate list of "defensive" arguments, or blocks?
* Have we used the strongest possible words, ideas, and examples to convey our arguments?
* Does our case have emotional resonance?

Dividing up roles: How will everyone on the team participate?
* Who reads the case?
* Who is the second / third speaker?
* How do we match skills / experience with our roles?