Below are some frequently asked questions about our competitive debating program. We have aimed to provide comprehensive answers, but if you have any additional inquiries, please feel free to contact us.
- What makes us different from others?
We differ from other debating clubs at our university in aim and goals, Our commitment is towards the restoration of the legacy that is lost and giving platform for holistic development to the students of the university irrespective of their background and privileges alongwith nurturing great leadership skills. - Why should we join?
The Siddons Debating Club (SDC) stands out due to its rich history and legacy, founded by Sir Syed Ahmad Khan in 1884. Our club is dedicated to nurturing leadership, promoting intellectual discourse, and upholding the cultural heritage of AMU. We provide a unique platform for students to engage in meaningful debates, develop critical thinking skills, and foster a spirit of civilized argumentation.
Joining SDC offers numerous benefits, including the opportunity to improve public speaking and debate skills, engage with diverse perspectives, and develop leadership qualities. Members gain access to workshops, training sessions, and a supportive community that encourages personal and intellectual growth. Being part of SDC also allows you to connect with like-minded individuals and make a positive impact within and beyond the university. - Who can join?
Membership in the Siddons Debating Club is open to all students of Aligarh Muslim University (+2 students included) and Alumni We welcome students from all faculties and disciplines who have a passion for debate, public speaking, and leadership. - How do we debate?
Our debates follow formal rules and structures, ensuring a fair and organized platform for discourse. We currently conduct parliamentary debates on a wide range of topics. Participants are encouraged to prepare thoroughly, present their arguments clearly, and engage respectfully with opposing viewpoints. We plan to span our style with that being said, it is easy to change style once one format is learned. Thus currently we are working towards refining our debating structure towards parliamentary debates. - What is the structure of a parliamentary debate?
In British Parliamentary debate, there are four teams, each consisting of two speakers. Two teams represent the government, and two teams represent the opposition.
The first two speakers on the government side are known as the opening government, while the first two on the opposition side are called the opening opposition. Similarly, the last two speakers on the government side are referred to as the closing government, and the last two on the opposition side are known as the closing opposition.
Speeches alternate between the two sides, beginning with the first government speech, and typically last five to seven minutes.
In this format, all teams aim to win the debate individually, rather than as a collective side. Thismeans that while speakers within the same team cooperate, teams on the same side do not collaborate and instead compete against each other. After the debate, teams are ranked from first to fourth place. Each team has a specific role and responsibility in the debate.
Please check resources for more information regarding thestructure. - Are debates only in English?
We are committed towards inclusivity and holistic development obligates us to accommodate towards inclusion of other languages. Thus we allow debaters to opt for language however there may be events where we are accepting only one language given conditions for the accommodations. - What makes a good debater?
The judges typically judge the debater on the following three categrories:
In British Parliamentary debate, the motion is revealed just fifteen minutes before the debat starts. Teams are randomly assigned their positions within the debate, ensuring an unbiased starting point. During this brief preparation period, teams must rely solely on their existing knowledge and experience to formulate their arguments and strategy.
a. Content
• What is Said: This includes the substance of the arguments presented by the debaters.
• Arguments and Examples: The relevance, strength, and originality of the arguments and supporting examples are crucial. Judges look for well-researched and logically sound points that effectively support the team’s stance.
b. Style
• Delivery: How the debaters present their arguments, including their tone, pace, and clarity.
• Language and Voice: Effective use of language, including rhetorical techniques,appropriate vocabulary, and a confident, engaging voice. Judges consider the overall eloquence and persuasiveness of the speaker’s presentation.
c. Strategy
• Engagement with the Topic: How well the debaters address the motion and stay on topic throughout their speeches.
• Response to Opponents: The ability to refute opposing arguments, handle points of information, and counter rebuttals effectively.
• Structure: The organization of the speech, including the logical flow of arguments, clear sign posting, and strategic prioritization of key points. Judges assess how well the debaters manage their time and structure their speeches tomaximize impact. - What is motion and how much time is needed to prepare?
Typical motions might include topics such as “This House Would Introduce…” or “This House Believes that….” This format tests the debaters’ quick thinking, adaptability, and depth of understanding on a variety of complex issues.