Resources for World Schools (WSDC) format
World Schools debating: an introduction, training materials and recorded rounds.
World Schools at a glance
Two teams of three debate a motion, with the Proposition supporting it and the Opposition challenging it. Each speaker gives an eight-minute speech, followed by a four-minute reply from each team. Opposition replies first.
Points of Information are brief challenges offered by the other team between minutes one and seven of the main speeches. Reply speeches have no Points of Information.
Opening speakers establish the case; second speakers develop it and answer objections; third speakers focus on rebuttal. Replies compare the central disagreements and explain why their team wins. Rounds may be prepared in advance or impromptu.
Summary based on Debate England’s World Schools resources.
Guides and training materials
- WSDC debating guide
Motion analysis, definitions and building a case.
- WSDC training resources
Briefings and support materials for speakers, judges and coaches.
- English-Speaking Union format guide
An overview of the format and how debates are judged.
- World Schools Debating League novice activities
Exercises for new debaters.
- Simon Quinn’s World Schools debating guide
A book covering argumentation and debate technique.
- Points of Information activity
Practice offering and handling questions during speeches.
Watch past WSDC rounds
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