Resolution Roadmap Slides Resolution Roadmap
Deconstructing the Debate Topic
DEBATE PREP 1.1
The Resolution
"Resolved: Schools should replace all physical textbooks with digital tablets."
A Resolution is the formal statement being debated. It's the "destination" for our research journey.
Affirmative
Agrees with the resolution (Yes! Tablets!)
Negative
Disagrees with the resolution (No! Keep books!)
Step 1: Circle Key Terms
We can't research effectively if we don't know exactly what the words mean.
"Replace all"
Does this mean 100%? Can we keep some for art or library time?
"Digital Tablets"
What specific features? iPads? E-readers? Does internet access matter?
Step 2: Dual-Perspective
Why it's GOOD (Pro)
Save paper/trees
Lighter backpacks
Up-to-date info
Interactive features
Why it's BAD (Con)
Screen fatigue
Battery life issues
Expensive to fix
Distractions (games)
Researching BOTH sides makes your OWN argument stronger!
The Researcher's Path
1
Analyze
Define every word in the topic.
2
Brainstorm
List arguments for both sides.
3
Search
Find facts to prove your points.
Topic Breakdown Blueprint Worksheet Topic Breakdown Blueprint
Phase 1: Resolution Deconstruction & Discovery
Date:
Case ID:
Agent Name:
The Official Resolution
Write the full debate topic exactly as it is stated.
Technical Definitions
Identify 3-4 keywords from the resolution. Define them based on how they will be used in the debate.
TERM 1:
TERM 2:
TERM 3:
TERM 4:
Dual-Angle Brainstorm
AFFIRMATIVE (PRO)
ARGUMENT 1:
ARGUMENT 2:
ARGUMENT 3:
NEGATIVE (CON)
ARGUMENT 1:
ARGUMENT 2:
ARGUMENT 3:
Research Roadmap Strategy
After completing this blueprint, identify which argument above has the least evidence and start your search there.
Resolution Analysis Teacher Guide Resolution Roadmap
Teacher Facilitation Guide • Lesson 1
Debate Research Mastery
Module 1.1
Lesson Overview
Students often dive into research without understanding the "boundaries" of the topic. This lesson forces them to slow down, define terms, and identify exactly what they need to prove. By the end, they will have a targeted research plan.
Learning Objectives
Deconstruct a formal resolution into definable key terms.
Identify the roles of the Affirmative and Negative sides.
Brainstorm arguments for both sides of a controversial topic.
Prep Checklist
Print Blueprint Worksheet
Load Resolution Slides
Select 2 practice topics
Instructional Flow
HOOK
10 MIN
The Vague vs. Specific Search
Give students two topics to find one fact for in 2 minutes.
Topic A (Vague): "Something about animals."Topic B (Specific): "Resolved: Zoos provide more benefit than harm to endangered species."Debrief: Ask: "Which was easier to find a specific fact for? Why?" Highlight that Topic B defines the goal.
CORE
20 MIN
Direct Instruction: Key Terms
Use the slides to walk through defining terms. Emphasize that "Definitions" aren't just from the dictionary—they are strategic . If we define "Schools" as "Public K-12", it changes our research.
Pro Tip:
Encourage students to use the "Negative" brainstorm to predict what their opponents will say. This is the first step in defensive research!
WRAP
15 MIN
The Blueprint Build
Students work in pairs on the **Topic Breakdown Blueprint**. Walk around and check for "Key Terms"—ensure they aren't defining words they already know, but words that are important to the debate (e.g., "replace", "harmful", "necessary").
Discussion Prompts
For Critical Thinking:
"If you were the Negative side, which word in the resolution would you want to redefine to make your job easier?"
For Strategic Research:
"Do you think it's possible to find a fact that could work for BOTH the Pro and Con sides?"
Argument Architecture Slides Argument Architecture
Building Unbreakable Cases with Claim, Warrant, & Data
Debate Lab 2.1
The Support Test
Imagine your argument is a tabletop .
If you don't have strong legs, the table falls over the second someone puts a "counter-argument" on it.
A claim without data is just an opinion.
CLAIM
Weak Legs = Failed Argument
The 3-Part Framework
Claim
The Point .
Warrant
The Reason .
Data
The Evidence .
Architecture in Action
Claim
Tablets improve student organization.
Warrant
Because digital files can be searched and tagged instantly.
Data
"According to a 2023 study, students using tablets spent 40% less time looking for lost assignments."
Now it's your turn!
We are going to take raw research notes and organize them into "Argument Units."
Today's Mission:
Construct 3 support legs for your resolution tabletop.
Argument Constructor Worksheet Argument Constructor
Case Building Phase: Claim • Warrant • Data
ARCHITECT:
DATE:
Level 1: Structure ID
Read the argument below. Identify which sentence is the **Claim (C)**, the **Warrant (W)**, and the **Data (D)**.
(1) Providing free lunch to all students improves overall academic performance. (2) When students are well-fed, they can focus better on their lessons rather than on hunger pangs. (3) A study by the Food Research Center found that schools with universal free lunch saw a 15% increase in math test scores.
Sentence 1:
Sentence 2:
Sentence 3:
Level 2: Build from Data
Use the raw data provided to construct a full argument unit.
RAW DATA REPORT:
"90% of veterinarians report that owning a dog helps children learn about daily responsibility and routines."
The Claim (What is your point?)
The Warrant (Why does the data prove your point?)
The Data (Put the research into a sentence)
According to...
Level 3: Original Blueprint
Pick ONE argument from your **Topic Breakdown Blueprint** and build its architecture here.
Claim
Warrant
Data
Argument Logic Key Argument Architecture
Answer Key & Teacher Resource • Lesson 2
Debate Research Mastery
Module 2.1
Level 1
Structure ID Solution
[Sentence 1] "Providing free lunch to all students improves overall academic performance." Claim
[Sentence 2] "When students are well-fed, they can focus better on their lessons rather than on hunger pangs." Warrant
[Sentence 3] "A study by the Food Research Center found that schools with universal free lunch saw a 15% increase in math test scores." Data
S1
C
S2
W
S3
D
Level 2
Build from Data (Sample)
Claim:
Every child should have the opportunity to care for a pet dog.
Warrant:
Because the daily care dogs require teaches children how to follow a schedule and meet the needs of others.
Data:
According to 90% of veterinarians surveyed, owning a dog significantly helps children learn about daily responsibility and routines.
Troubleshooting the "Table Leg"
Warrant Confusion:
Students often struggle with the Warrant . They might just restate the data. Remind them the Warrant is the "glue"—it explains WHY that specific fact proves their point.
Data Selection:
Ensure students are using credible sources . If their "Data" is "My friend says so," their argument leg is made of wet cardboard. It won't hold the tabletop!
Defense Strategy Slides Defense Strategy
Building "Blocks" to Stop the Opposition
Tactical Phase 3.1
The Devil's Advocate
A great debater knows their opponent's argument better than the opponent does.
"If I know what you're going to say, I can have the answer ready before you even open your mouth."
Anticipate
Investigate
Refute
Response
The "Block"
A Block is a pre-written research unit designed to stop a specific counter-argument.
The Attack
"Tablets are too expensive for school districts!"
The Block
Actually, the GAO found that digital tablets save schools $1.2 million in paper and printing costs over 3 years.
How to Build a Block
1
Look at your opposition brainstorm (from Lesson 1).
2
Research the facts they will use against you.
3
Find a "Counter-Statistic" or a reason their fact is flawed.
BLOCK IN PROGRESS
Switch perspectives now to find your own weak spots.
Shields Up!
Today, you aren't just an advocate. You are a defender .
Identify Attack
Deploy Block
Counter-Argument Blocker Worksheet Counter-Argument Blocker
Defensive Phase: Threat Analysis • Refutation • Blocks
DEFENDER:
STATUS:
In Progress
Anticipated Attacks
Look at your brainstorming from Lesson 1. What are the 2 strongest points the other side will make? Describe their "Attack."
Primary Threat
THEIR ARGUMENT:
Secondary Threat
THEIR ARGUMENT:
Defensive Blocks
For each threat identified above, find research that "Blocks" their point. Use the CWD framework for your response.
Defense Block 01
REF: PRIMARY THREAT
Refutation
"While they claim..., in reality..."
Reasoning
Block Data
Defense Block 02
REF: SECONDARY THREAT
Refutation
Reasoning
Block Data
Tactical Instruction:
When your opponent makes an argument in a debate, immediately look for the matching "Block" in your notes. Use the Refutation sentence to start your response, then provide your Data .
Devil's Advocate Cards Devil's Advocate Cards
Use these cards to practice the skill of **instant refutation**. These cards present "Popular Opinions" that students might personally agree with. Their job is to put aside their personal bias and find a logical flaw or a reason the *other* side might be right.
How to Play:
Cut out the cards below.
Draw a card and read the "Popular Opinion" aloud.
Students have 30 seconds to brainstorm a "Counter-Point."
Encourage them to start with: "I see your point, but..."
The Goal:
Students learn that every argument has two sides. Even if they don't like the other side, they must understand its logic to defeat it in a debate.
Case Card 01
Popular Opinion:
"Homework should be banned because it takes away from family time."
Find a reason for the other side
Case Card 02
Popular Opinion:
"Video games are a waste of time and make kids less social."
Find a reason for the other side
Case Card 03
Popular Opinion:
"Every student should be required to learn a second language."
Find a reason for the other side
Case Card 04
Popular Opinion:
"Summer vacation should be longer to allow for more travel."
Find a reason for the other side
Case Card 05
Popular Opinion:
"Recess should be at least one hour every single day."
Find a reason for the other side
Case Card 06
Popular Opinion:
"School uniforms should be mandatory to prevent bullying."
Find a reason for the other side
Brief Blueprint Slides Brief Blueprint
Organizing for Maximum Persuasion
Assembly Phase 4.1
The Brief
A Debate Brief is your master plan. It's not just a pile of facts; it's an organized script for victory.
Easy to read while speaking
Logical flow from start to finish
Instant access to your blocks
The Priority Principle
In a debate, time is your enemy. You must put your strongest research first .
TOP TIER
Your most shocking statistic or undeniable logic.
SUPPORT TIER
Extra examples and detailed explanations.
BLOCK TIER
Defensive notes tucked at the bottom or back.
Visual Layout
Your brief shouldn't look like an essay. It should look like a dashboard .
Use BOLD for key phrases.
Use bullet points for stats.
Leave white space to write new notes.
Good Example
POINT 1: ACADEMICS
CLAIM: Tablets help focus.
Fact: 20% score increase.
Source: Harvard Edu 2024.
Assembly Time
Take your CWD units and your Blocks and assemble the Master Brief.
Master Debate Brief Template Official Debate Brief
Competition Phase: Synthesis & Final Assembly
Case Identifier
Lead Advocate:
Date Issued:
Position:
AFFIRMATIVE
NEGATIVE
Resolution:
Point 01
Primary Support Argument
Claim
Warrant
Data
"According to..."
Point 02
Secondary Support Argument
Claim
Warrant
Data
"According to..."
Defenses
Strategic Response Blocks
Target Argument:
Your Block:
Target Argument:
Your Block:
Speaker's Reminder:
"Keep your eyes on the judges, not the paper. Use these notes as a guide, but speak from your research-backed passion!"
Brief Polish Checklist Brief Polish Checklist
Final Quality Assurance • Phase 4.2
Status: Ready for Review
The Evidence Test
CWD Alignment
Does your **Data** actually prove your **Claim**? Does the **Warrant** explain the connection clearly?
Source Credibility
Did you include the names of organizations or studies? (e.g., "According to the World Health Organization...")
The Defense Shield
Do you have at least **two** blocks ready to stop the most common counter-arguments?
The Performance Test
The Scan Test
If you look at your brief for only **3 seconds**, can you find your main points? Did you use bolding and bullet points?
White Space
Is there room to write down what your opponent says during the debate so you can respond?
Final Notes / Improvements needed: Rapid Fire Showdown Slides Live Competition
Rapid Fire Showdown
Testing the Brief in Combat
Ready
Set
Debate
The 10-Second Test
A debate brief is only good if you can find the info fast .
"If you have to hunt through pages of notes while your opponent is talking, you've already lost the round."
Challenge:
When the moderator asks a question, you have **10 seconds** to point to the exact statistic in your brief that answers it.
How to "Flow"
1. Listen for Claims
Write down the main point your opponent makes. Do not try to write every word!
2. Match the Block
Scan your "Defensive Blocks" section. Which one stops their specific claim?
This is called "Flowing"—tracking the conversation on paper.
Success Criteria
1
Did you name your Source ?
2
Did you use a Block to respond to an attack?
3
Was your response Fluency-focused (no paper-fiddling)?
Showtime
Trust Your Brief. trust Your Research.
Debate Flow Sheet Worksheet Debate Flow Sheet
Action Phase: Argument Tracking & Response Analysis
RECORDER:
ROUND #:
Affirmative Arguments
Argument A
Argument B
Argument C
Negative Responses
Response to A
Response to B
Response to C
Rapid Flow Tip:
"Don't write in full sentences! Use abbreviations like 'C' for Claim, 'S' for Source, and arrows to show which response goes with which argument."
Research Retrieval Rubric Research Retrieval Rubric
Teacher Assessment • Lesson 5 Mini-Debates
Debate Research Mastery
Module 5.1
Competency Distinguished (4) Proficient (3) Developing (2) Beginning (1) Data Retrieval Speed Ability to find and cite specific facts under pressure.
| Instantly finds facts; zero hesitation; seamless transition. | Finds facts within 10 seconds; minor pause for searching. | Struggles to find facts; significant pauses while searching brief. | Cannot locate research in brief during active debate. |
| Evidence Sourcing
Naming the organization, date, or study for every fact.
| Cites full source name and date for every data point used. | Cites source for most data points; may miss specific dates. | Cites source for only one point; or uses vague "a study says." | Uses raw data without naming any external sources. |
| Defensive Block Usage
Deploying pre-researched rebuttals to opposition points.
| Identifies attack and deploys specific block with counter-data. | Responds to attack using logic, but misses the "Block" research. | Attempts a response but doesn't address the specific claim. | No response to opponent's claims; repeats own points. |
| CWD Structural Clarity
Maintaining the Claim-Warrant-Data framework while speaking.
| Spoken arguments are clearly structured into C, W, and D. | Arguments include Claim and Data; Warrant may be brief. | Provides points and facts but lacks reasoning (Warrants). | Arguments are disorganized or purely anecdotal. |
Observation Notes:
Total Score:
/ 16
Debate Research Mastery • Lesson 5 Rapid Fire Showdown
