By popularonion - 15/04/2016 04:09 - Canada - London
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popularonion tells us more.
Hey guys, OP here! I finally made an account because my FML got published! (Wow! I didn't actually expect it to!) While I agree with the comments that say I should have reviewed debate points from the other side, it was a pretty sudden thing for my teacher to do (I think she told me 5 minutes before the debate started) and not only did I not have very helpful notes, I was kind of shaken up by the change, which definitely didn't help me. The way we were doing the debate was one-on-one, with both people arguing their points at separate times. She only switched me, and that was because the side I originally chose had 2 more people than the other side, and she thought I was a strong enough debater (even though I really don't think I am) that I could easily adapt. In the end, everything was fine, I managed to write a few points down from my original notes, and I stumbled through them for the length of the debate. (Two minutes for each person, so it wasn't too long) My teacher apologized, but said I did well nonetheless. Thank you to everyone who commented!
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I was always taught to study both sides, it gives you a better understanding of what the opposing side may day and an idea of what to counter back. Sorry OP but your lack of studying both sides is kind of your fault. But now you know for next time.
Okay. I'm sorry but the kid probably didn't listen to the teacher. The teacher probably meant you could choose which you agree with or maybe how you would come at the issue, but it is common knowledge that you need to have both sides in order to thoroughly debate a topic.
that sucks. my teacher did that too. I had to say why same sex couples shouldn't have equal rights. I'm gay
The point of debate is not whether you agree with the subject; it is to be able to argue against an opposing viewpoint effectively. At competitions, you will argue both sides of the issue (selected at the beginning of the season) multiple times. We carried researched points to make on index cards, with one box being "for" and the other "against." You're not being asked to defend your personal views; you're there to win or lose the arguement.
I've been through a similar situation. All you have to do is negate your notes for your opening statements. Use your opponents rebutles to build on the notes you already have to make your opposing statements & so forth. Your opponent will be putty in your hand. ✋
If you can't argue both sides, you don't deserve to have an opinion.
in that situation do wat i do, just wing it.
<p>What was it about?</p> <p> </p> <p>And, that might have been the point, as I hear about this all the time for assignments.</p>
SaltyLurker
10
Shouldn't you know both sides of the debate anyway? Seems to me like you were unprepared ito actual argumentation
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Hate to say it but that was probably the point. Your teacher made everyone debate the opposite sides so that he/she could see how well you actually can debate, without pre-planning. Pure, on the spot debate, even for something you disagree with (going on the assumption you chose the side you agreed with more before she made everyone switch). Tldr it was probably on purpose.
Your original points may not have been great, but I'm sure your counter arguments were fantastic with your understanding of the opposition