DEBATE: KCSE ENGLISH PAPER ONE

CLASS: FORM ONE

ORAL SKILLS: LISTENING AND SPEAKING

TOPIC: DEBATE

Objective: 

By the end of the lesson, the learners should be able to: 

                          i.  Appreciate the importance of having debating skills 

                        ii.  Acquire debating skills 

                      iii.  Participate in debates 

Debate

A debate is a process that involves formal discussions on a particular topic where opposing arguments are put forward. 

Debates may occur in academic institutions, public meetings or legislative assemblies.

A debate is simply a structured or organised argument where two sides discuss for and against particular issues based on a certain topic. 

Why debates? 

They are an important aspect of human communication. In our usual interaction with other people we may have discussions or arguments where we choose sides. We may also be forced to defend a position we believe in. 

Debating is an excellent way of improving speaking skills. It helps us develop experience in developing convincing arguments. 

Guidelines on preparation before a debate 

·        Get all important facts about the motion, pros and cons-the facts about the opponents sides may help you anticipate and prepare a watertight rebuttal. This helps boost your confidence. 

·        Prepare a detailed, logical outline with free flowing ideas to help you present a seamless, convincing argument. Your notes should be brief and clear. 

·        Rehearse in front of a mirror or before your friends. You may correct any mistakes you note. 

·        Physical exercise, psyching yourself, breathing in and out may help you ease nervousness before taking the stage. 

 

What to do during the actual presentation in a debate

·        Adopt a relaxed natural posture and deliver your material in a confident and persuasive way. 

·        Consider your pace of delivery. Your speed should allow you time to say what you want, but slow enough to be understood clearly. 

·        Vary your tone in order to sound interesting and avoid boring the audience with a monotone. 

·        Project your voice so that everyone hears what you are saying. Avoid shouting. If you speak too quietly no one will get your point. 

·        Speak concisely with clarity, and keep your argument simple and comprehensible. 

·        Establish eye contact with members of the opponents' side. Avoid staring. 

·        Avoid reading your notes verbatim. Simply glance at them. 

·        Use relevant gestures to emphasize certain points. 

·        Use relevant facial expressions naturally in order to emphasize important points. 

·        Pronounce words clearly and stress important words that may help you bring out your thoughts clearly. 

·        Pause in between points to make your delivery interesting. 

·        Be time conscious. Stick within the stipulated time frame. 

·        Use courteous language. Avoid abusive or offensive language. 

 

SAMPLE KCSE QUESTIONS ON DEBATE CONSONANT SOUNDS

 KCSE ENGLISH 2009 PAPER 1

 You are going to take part in a debate. Explain how you would deal with the fear and anxiety associated with public speaking of this kind. (6 mks)

Next we analyse oral skills notes on etiquette: use of polite language.

Please comment and suggest some debate topics for high school students