Case Structure

The case structure is the foundation of your success in a debate. No structure or poorly formed arguments will result in confusion and shows a lack of preparation. Good case structure shows the team is prepared for competition and makes judging much easier.

The main determination about your case structure is your time limits. For this debate, the time limit for the 1st. Aff. speaker is 4 min. The other constructive speeches in the round will prepare cases 2 1/2-3 min. long. The remaining time is used to refute the arguments of the opposing team.

Due to the time limit, you should prepare a two-point argument. The outline looks like this:

Introduction--15-30 sec.

State Position in Round, Important Definitions, and Thesis--15 sec.

1st Main Point--Use major argument found in your evidence cards (You should have at least 3-5 evidence cards supporting this main point.) 45 sec.--1 1/2 min.

A. Subpoint--Use relevant evidence card to support the main point
B. Subpoint--Use another evidence card to support the 1st main point

2nd Main Point--Use another major argument found in your evidence cards (You should have at least 3-5 evidence cards supporting this main point.) 45 sec.--1 1/2 min.

A. Subpoint--Use relevant evidence card to support the 2nd main point
B. Subpoint--Use relevant evidence card to support the 2nd main point

Review Thesis and Conclusion--3o sec.

The evidence cards in your initial case should NOT be your best evidence cards. You want to save your best evidence for your rebuttal or to respond to what your opponent says against your case.