Now that the first round of presentations is complete, it is time to prepare for the debate. The debate will focus on the question "Are there any conditions under which it is acceptable to genetically modify animals?"

About the Debate

There are going to be two positions in the debate, namely:

• The Negative Position: No, there are no conditions under which the genetic modification of animals is acceptable.
• The Affirmative Position: Yes, there are conditions under which the genetic modification of animals can be permitted. This position will also require you to spell out what you believe those conditions are and why.

Strong debaters have a thorough understanding of both sides of an argument so that they can anticipate what the other side's arguments will be. It's harder to have a good defense when you have no idea what the offense is likely to come at you with. Be sure to give equal consideration to each position, regardless of your personal opinions. The debates are to help show the subcommittee how people discuss these issues and defend their positions. Even though it's a demonstration, we'll want to make it realistic and thorough. You'll need to understand both positions to do that.

Debates aren't static; the other team will be critiquing your position and trying to convince people of the opposite position. You will need to address the questions here persuasively as well as any points they bring up. As such you may feel pressure during the debate. The best way to prepare for that is to be very familiar with the information.

Your Task

To best prepare yourself for the debate:

Manage your project well; good team organization will help make the details of your task easier to track and to complete.

Conduct some research on both sides of the argument to fill in any holes that exist from your research for the presentation. In your research, be sure to answer the following questions:

• What is the issue you're dealing with?
• What is your position and why?
• What are the positive consequences of your position and which parties do they affect?
• What are the potential negative consequences of your position and which parties do they affect?
• Why do the positive consequences outweigh the negative consequences (or vice versa, depending on your position)?

Once you feel confident with your approach, it is always a good idea to conduct a run-through with your teammates, and then refine your strategy based on this experience. You might try taking turns defending each position to make sure you each understand both sides.

I look forward to being of assistance where needed.

Dr. Susan Woodrow