Debate formats

World Schools

3 vs 3 · 8 speeches · prepared and impromptu motions

The format of the World Schools Debating Championship and many national school leagues.

Public Forum

2 vs 2 · crossfires · monthly NSDA topic

A US high school format built so that any listener can follow it.

Lincoln-Douglas

1 vs 1 · values and criteria · NSDA topic

One-on-one debate about values and ethics.

Policy

2 vs 2 · one topic all year

Evidence-heavy debate on a single policy resolution for the whole season.

Congressional Debate

A chamber of students · bills and resolutions

Students act as legislators, giving speeches for and against bills.

British Parliamentary

4 teams of 2 · 15 minutes prep

The format of the World and European Universities championships.

Asian Parliamentary

3 vs 3 · replies · 30 minutes prep

Widely used across Asia, at school and university level.