Constructing a Case for the Proposition

1. International Debate Education Association Constructing a Case for the Proposition

2. Proposition • A proposition is sometimes called a motion, a resolution, or simply a topic. • A proposition is a sentence that generally frames the debate. • A proposition is not a sentence that the Government team is required to provide a precise or exacting proof. • A proposition is designed to get the debate started.

3. Case • A case is a series of statements sufficient to support a proposition (resolution, motion, topic, etc.) • A case should include a definition or clarification of the motion. • A case should include one or more arguments sufficient to support the motion as defined.

4. Three Elements of a Case • Define the Motion. • Present and elaborate your thesis. • Present arguments in favor of your thesis.

5. Define the Motion • Define key words or phrases. • Do not define all words. • Define words fairly—don’t try to be tricky.

6. Present & Elaborate your Thesis • Thesis is usually a plan of action. • If possible, present the thesis in a simple sentence. • If needed, present one or two sentences to show how your thesis relates to the proposition. • Provide necessary details • Essential elements include actor and action • Other elements may include time, cost, enforcement, etc.

7. Arguments in Favor of your plan • What problem is your plan designed to solve? Problem--Solution • What positive effects will your plan have? Comparative advantages • What principles or positive values will your plan uphold? Principled approach • What symbolic effect will your plan have? Symbolic approach

8. Problem-- Solution • Problem • Describe some feature of the status quo • Relate that feature to some problem • Evaluate that problem by showing how bad it really is • Solution • Describe some alternative feature of your plan • Relate that feature of your plan to the solution of the problem • Evaluate your plan positively because it solves the problem completely or at least partially

9. Comparative Advantages • Describe the part of the status quo that prevents this advantage from happening • Describe the part of your plan designed to produce this advantage • Show how your plan actually does produce this advantage • Show how this advantage achieves some significant good.

10. Principled Approach • State a universal principle upon which your plan is based • Offer support for that universal principle • Show how your plan upholds that principle

11. Symbolic approach • Describe some element of the status quo. • Show how that element has a symbolic effect. • Show how that symbolic effect communicates some bad. • Describe some element of your plan designed to have the opposite symbolic effect. • Show how the symbolic effect of your plan will communicate something good.

12. Convergent Structure • Several arguments converge to support your plan. • For example • Most criminals, murderers included, do not believe they will be caught. • Therefore they do not fear capital punishment. • Without the fear of death, capital punishment cannot deter crime.

13. Independent Structure • Several arguments provide separate support for your plan. Each argument can stand alone. • For example: • Capital punishment is immoral. • Capital punishment is only for immature governments • Capital punishment does not deter crime.