Template: Productive Debate Preparation

Debate Topic

Topic/Issue: _________________________________ Context: _____________________________________ Upcoming Discussion Date/Setting: _____________

Goals for This Discussion

What do you hope to achieve through this conversation? (Check all that apply) ☐ Better understand different perspectives ☐ Share my viewpoint effectively ☐ Find potential common ground ☐ Develop possible solutions ☐ Build/maintain relationships despite disagreement ☐ Other: _________________________________

Factual Research Summary

List key facts relevant to this topic from reliable sources:

Common misconceptions about this topic: 1. ________________________________________ 2. ________________________________________ 3. ________________________________________

Perspective Mapping

Map different perspectives on this issue:

My Position Analysis

My current position on this issue: _________________________________________________ _________________________________________________

Values that inform my position: 1. ________________________________________ 2. ________________________________________ 3. ________________________________________

Strongest arguments for my position: 1. ________________________________________ 2. ________________________________________ 3. ________________________________________

Potential weaknesses in my position: 1. ________________________________________ 2. ________________________________________

Emotional Preparation

My potential emotional triggers on this topic: 1. ________________________________________ 2. ________________________________________

Strategies I’ll use if emotionally triggered: 1. ________________________________________ 2. ________________________________________

My intentions for how I want to show up in this conversation: _________________________________________________ _________________________________________________

Active Listening Plan

Clarifying questions I might ask: 1. ________________________________________ 2. ________________________________________ 3. ________________________________________

Paraphrasing templates to check understanding: - “It sounds like you’re saying…” - “I want to make sure I understand. You believe…” - “So from your perspective…”

Common Ground Exploration

Potential shared values across different perspectives: 1. ________________________________________ 2. ________________________________________

Possible areas of agreement: 1. ________________________________________ 2. ________________________________________

“If-then” statements that might lead to compromise: 1. “If _______________, then could you consider _______________?” 2. “If _______________, then might we agree on _______________?”

Physical/Logistical Preparation

☐ Choose appropriate setting (quiet, neutral, comfortable) ☐ Consider timing (when everyone is rested and has sufficient time) ☐ Prepare any materials or references you might need ☐ Plan for breaks if discussion might be lengthy ☐ Other: _________________________________

Post-Discussion Reflection Plan

Questions I’ll reflect on afterward: - What did I learn about other perspectives? - What went well in the conversation? - What could I improve next time? - Did we find any common ground? - What follow-up might be valuable?

Remember: The goal of civic debate isn’t to “win” but to deepen understanding, find possible common ground, and work toward solutions that address diverse concerns.