Instructions

1

Follow a debate format. Allow the "affirmative" side of the issue the opportunity to make the first opening statement, followed by a statement from the "negative" side. Take turns asking each side a question and allow the other side to offer a rebuttal before a new question is asked.
2

Control the tempo of the debate. A moderator maintains the flow of questions and monitors how much time each side of the debate uses to introduce a point or rebut a statement. Give each side equal time to answer the initial question and to offer counter-points to the opposing side of the issue.
3

Focus on one question at a time. If the debate participants introduce other questions and get off topic, the moderator must take control of the debate and refocus the attention on the current question.
4

End the debate with closing statements from each side of the issue. The moderator allows the affirmative side to state closing comments in a set amount of time and offers the negative side the same courtesy. Closing statements are not a time for rebuttals.