In debating, we follow some rules so as to maintain some kind of structure to the argument. Otherwise, we would simply shout at each other for half an hour and sit down!
We use the British Parliamentary system, which involves four people on either side, each giving a 5 minute speech on their side of the argument. The first and last minute of the 5 minute speech is protected time - when no "points of information" can be made.
The first speaker for the proposition motion opens the debate.
The first speaker for the opposition then rebuts what the first speaker said, and proposes the alternative motion.
The second speaker for the prop then rebuts the first speaker for the opp, and expands on the points made by the first prop.
The second speaker for the opp then rebuts the second prop, and expands on the first opp's points.
The third speaker for the proposition makes a short rebuttal, and then extends the argument with a new idea.
The third speaker for the opposition rebuts this extension, and can make an extension himself.
The fourth prop speaker can make a rebuttal of the new extension, but must focus on summing up the case for the proposition.
Finally, the fourth opp speaker must sum up the whole debate - analysing the key points from both parties. Obviously however, this will be with a slant towards the opposition's side of the argument.
Points of Information (POIs) can be made by any debater on the opposite side from the person sepaking, They can be made at any time except the first and the last minite of each speach, which are prtoected. POIs should be about 10-15 seconds in length, and should be a brief point of argument against what the speaker is saying. To make a POI, a debater stands up and says 'Point of Information' or 'On that point' or somehing similar. The speaker must accept or refuse the point immediately. Each speaker should accept take between 1 and 2 POIs in each speech.
A judge, or panel of judges, will then ask all 8 debaters to leave the room, and will come to a decision on who came 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th. The judge should explian his or her decision, and give positive crtique of each team, or each speaker.
A fuller summary can be found here
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