Preparing for Rebuttal
After constructive speeches are over, the main arguments of the debate have been presented. The affirmative justification has been presented (1AC) and extended (2AC). The negative counter-arguments and plan attacks have also been presented (1NC and 2NC). Rebuttals are the time to rebuild (rebut) key arguments, refute (attack) the arguments of your opponent, and focus the debate on key issues. It is time to convince the judge to vote in your favor.
Plan for Rebuttal
Rebuttal is easy if you follow a plan.
Teammates should agree ahead of time regarding which points each one will defend. This agreement should be adhered to, otherwise, confusion results.
The points (stock issues) apply to both affirmative and negative speakers. When each team tries to run the debate, that is, take the offense, there is a real argument. Because each plays upon his or her own case, the two proposals are their arguments are easily followed.
It should be noted too, that negative cases oppose affirmative cases by showing that any one of the stock issues does not hold, that is, the proposal is not needed, not practical, or not desirable. By disproving any one of these points, a negative causes an affirmative to fall, since the affirmative mush prove them all.
Teammates should agree ahead of time regarding which points each one will defend. This agreement should be adhered to, otherwise, confusion results.
- In refuting points (stock issues), try to run the debate. Take the offensive. This is easy but you must follow a plan. The plan is to take your main speech point by point. Reiterate the first point you made, tell what the opposition did to disprove it; then give more evidence to re-establish it. Now take your second point, do the same thing over again. Continue this strategy throughout your rebuttal and close with a summary, followed by a statement of your belief in the soundness of your proposal.
- Do not talk about points brought up by your opponents, except as you refer to them while you re-emphasize your own points. You must carry out this plan of advancing your own case or you will be likely to confuse yourself and your audience. Refuse to be budged from the consideration of your plan for advancing your own case.
The points (stock issues) apply to both affirmative and negative speakers. When each team tries to run the debate, that is, take the offense, there is a real argument. Because each plays upon his or her own case, the two proposals are their arguments are easily followed.
It should be noted too, that negative cases oppose affirmative cases by showing that any one of the stock issues does not hold, that is, the proposal is not needed, not practical, or not desirable. By disproving any one of these points, a negative causes an affirmative to fall, since the affirmative mush prove them all.