Elements of Debating Part 6

MODEL BRIEF

Statement of proposition.

INTRODUCTION

I. Definition of terms.

II. Restatement of question in light of these terms.

 

III. Determination of issues.

1. Statement of what both sides admit.

2. Statement of what is irrelevant.

IV. Statement of the issues.

PROOF

I. The first issue is true, for:

1. This reason, which is true, for:

(1) This reason, for:

a) This reason.

b) This reason.

2. This reason, for:

(1) This evidence.

(2) This authority.

(3) This testimony, for:

a) See Vol. X, p. --, of report, doc.u.ment, magazine, or book.

II. The second issue is true, for:

1. This reason, for: (1) This reason.

2. This reason, for:

(1) This reason.

(2) This reason.

III. The third issue is true, for:

1. This reason, etc.

IV. The fourth issue is true, for:

1. This reason, etc.

CONCLUSION

Therefore, since we have shown: (1) that the first issue is true by this evidence, (2) that the second issue is well founded by this evidence; (3) that the third and fourth, etc.; we conclude that our proposition is true.

Now, let us look at a special brief, made out in a high-school debate, for a special subject.

The preceding is an affirmative brief and there were four issues. In the following we have a negative brief, in which there were three issues. Refutation is introduced near the close of the proof.

Of this we shall see more in the next lesson.

BRIEF FOR NEGATIVE

INTRA-HIGH-SCHOOL CONTESTS SHOULD BE SUBSt.i.tUTED FOR INTER-HIGH-SCHOOL CONTESTS IN THE HIGH SCHOOLS OF NORTHERN ILLINOIS

INTRODUCTION

I. Definition of terms.

1. Contests, ordinary compet.i.tions in:

a) Athletics.

b) Debating.

2. Intra-high-school contests (contests within each school).

3. Inter-high-school contests (contests between different high schools).

II. Restatement of question in light of these definitions. Contests within each high school should be subst.i.tuted for contests between high schools in Northern Illinois.

III. Determination of issues.

1. It is admitted that:

a) Inter and intra contests both exist at present in the high schools of Northern Illinois.

b) Contest work is a desirable form of training.