WHAT IS DEBATE?

A debate is an organized argument or contest of ideas in which the debaters discuss a topic or resolution from two opposing sides. Those who agree with the resolution are the "Proposition" side, and those who do not agree with the resolution are the "Opposition" side. Each side will show in an organized and clever way why they believe they are correct. Debaters will use examples and evidence to support their ideas. The goal of a debate is to convince the judges that you are right! 

The Saskatchewan Elocution and Debate Association (SEDA) is a non-profit organization that organizes debate events and tournaments throughout the year. The Yorkton Debate Academy is a club registered with SEDA which means we will be attending SEDA speech and debate events and tournaments.

Throughout the season, debaters compete in three kinds of tournaments: 

1. Prepared Debate Tournaments: Debaters receive the motion in advance of the tournament and have time to prepare and practice. 

2. Impromptu Debate Tournaments: Debaters do not receive the motion in advance. On tournament day, debaters receive the motion and have 30 minutes to prepare. They cannot use technology; they can only use their own knowledge and experiences. 

3. Speech Tournaments: There are two speech tournaments in a season. Speakers prepare a persuasive speech and an Interpretative Reading. Finalists compete in an Impromptu speech. 

WHO CAN JOIN DEBATE?

Debate is open to all students in grades 5-12. SEDA has four categories of debate: 

• Beginner: grades 5 & 6

• Intermediate: grades 7 & 8

• Novice: new debaters in grades 9-12

• Open: Expert debaters in grades 9-12 

This is a partner activity. Teams of two compete in SEDA debate tournaments.