Elements of Debating: A Manual for Use in High Schools and Academies

This manual introduces principles and techniques of argument and formal debate for secondary-school students, beginning with definitions of discourse forms and the nature of argumentation. It presents the qualities and management of debates, methods for analyzing and framing issues, strategies for selecting and organizing evidence (emphasizing reference to experience), construction of briefs, techniques of refutation, and forensic presentation. Lessons include practical exercises, a diagrammatic model of proof, sample briefs and contests, reading suggestions, lists of debatable propositions, and judge's decision forms, all designed to teach economical, teacher-guided preparation and effective oral advocacy.