Debate Writing Class 11 | Format, Samples & Skills

What is Debate Writing?

Debate writing is simply the presentation of an opinion in a clear way by supporting it with good reasons, facts and examples, to intelligently challenge any opposing view. It develops your logic, creativity, and at the same time teaches you how to be confident — talents that allow you to detach not only from exams but also in life.

This is Your Success Recipe: Master the CBSE Debate Writing Layout

CBSE recommends a clear, structured format for Class 11. Now, if you master that, you are halfway there!

Formal Greeting:

Answer and rebuke the opposing view more kindly.

Conclusion:

Finish with a confident, strong summation of your position.

Word Limit:

Keep it concise: 150–200 words.

Pro Tip: Be focused, passionate and articulate! Stick to the facts, but do not lose your voice

Top Skills to Master in Your Debate

Critical Thinking: Before you take a side, explore the opposite.

Logical Reasoning: Confirm that your points are clear and that they logically align with each other.

Use research: facts, statistics, stories or expert quotes (even from famous TED Talks).

Speaking in Public Mindset — Write as if speaking to an audience

Profanity: Keep it formal (no slang or casual words)

Trending & Thought-Provoking Debate Topics

Choose topics that will make your audience go, WOW! Here are some:

1. Is fast fashion destroying the planet?

2. Are electric vehicles the real solution to climate change?

3. Do algorithms control our choices more than we realize?

4. Should schools include lessons from TED Talks and YouTube EDU?

5. Are esports as valuable as traditional sports?

6. Should governments regulate AI-powered facial recognition technology?

7. Is cash becoming obsolete in a digital world?

8. Was working from home better for family life and productivity?

9. Should single-use plastics be banned globally?

10. Can empathy be taught effectively in schools?

11. Is space exploration worth its huge cost while Earth faces environmental crises?

12. Should there be a global curriculum for all children?

13. Should “fake news” be punishable by law?

14. Is homework still necessary in the digital age?

Mini Sample Debate Snippet:

For the Motion:

Respected Chairperson, I am of the firm view that spreading fake news is a non-bailable crime. In the same way, a disease rumour or a false alarm during a mercurial request (COVID-19) can make people suffer and lose their lives. Hence, punishing those who create fake news will keep it out of social media and maybe even out of politics; people will think twice before sharing unverified stories. Accountability that will prevent harm to our society and foster responsible communication.”

Against the Motion:

But not all fake news is shared maliciously or intentionally. Making fake news punishable could threaten freedom of expression and discourage open dialogue. Rather than strict punishment, we should focus on improving media literacy and teaching citizens to verify information before believing or sharing it. This way, society learns to recognize and reject misinformation by itself without fear of censorship."

Should the age of voting age be lowered to 16 globally?

In Favour (Vote Age Lowering to 16)

Respected Chairperson, Honourable Judges and My Dear Friends

I stand before you to support the implementation of a worldwide voting age set at 16.

Body:

The practice of allowing 16-year-olds to drive and work and pay taxes exists in certain regions. Research shows that 16-year-olds possess equal social understanding abilities to older voters and their youth brain structure makes them ready for voter competency tests. The right to vote should extend to them because they will face the consequences of decisions that will determine the future of their nation. The practice of early civic engagement at a young age creates lasting habits which strengthen democratic systems throughout a person's life.

Solution:

Educational institutions together with government entities need to establish civic education and voter engagement initiatives that will prepare every young person for responsible voting.

Conclusion:

The practice of voting rights for 16- and 17-year-olds recognizes their citizenship while driving democratic change in our society.

Thank you.

Against the Motion (Do Not Lower the Voting Age to 16)

Introduction:

Chairperson, Honorable judge & Our Dear Friends.

I stand here to talk about why I am against voting at 16.

Body:

16-year-olds often do not have the life experience or political maturity that would be needed to vote responsibly in elections. Also, a large number of young individuals within this age range have relatively low levels of interest in politics and there is an overwhelming amount of data illustrating that most adults — and even the teens themselves to a certain extent — are diametrically opposed to the idea. Prematurely giving voting rights may result in uninformed, non-thought kind of national issues.

Solution:

Rather than lowering the voting age, efforts should be focused on strengthening civic education to better prepare young people for political engagement at the appropriate age

Conclusion:

By summing up, the current voting age is in favour as an element to keep voters more mature and knowledgeable which overall strengthens the democratic process.

Thank you.

Item: Algorithms Do Not Control Our Choices More Than We Realize (Against the Motion)

Introduction:

Chairperson Respected Judges Dearly Beloved Friends.

I want to second the notion that we are more in control of our choices than algorithms lead us to believe.

Body:

Although algorithms do shape our relationship with the internet, free will and analytical capacity have an impact on humans. While not every recommendation is taken blindly, people can still choose for themselves to tap into an outside algorithm suggestion pool. Awareness — — Today, many users are turning away from inherent manipulation by algorithms and awareness campaigns and user controls on major platforms allow individuals to tailor their experiences.

Solution:

Instead, we should be helping people to make better use of technology and develop their capacity for a mindful use of it over time.

Conclusion:

Yes, we may be directed by algorithms but that does not really have the final say in our decisions. So, we stay aware and with agency to keep steering what impacts on our lives.

Thank you.

Thumbs Up for Debates (Winning Moves)

Begin with an elegant formal greeting.

Stay devoted to your chosen side without switching.

Back your arguments with clear cases, facts, or stories.

Outline your arguments and counterarguments in a clear, logical order.

Tackle opposing views with graciousness and respect.

Use powerful, formal language to persuade and engage.

Try to keep your speech within 150–200 words.

Revise your grammar and use appropriate vocabulary.

Thumbs Down for Debates (Avoid These Traps)

Avoiding the formal introduction — it’s like skipping a handshake!

Switching sides in between — confuses judges and listeners.

Claims without examples- weaken your argument.

Repetition — bring original, fresh facts each time.

Personal or rude remarks — attack ideas, never people.

Drifting off the subject or rambling — stay focused.

Usage of slang or informal words (“like,” “guys,” “you know, yeh” … NO!).

Overlooking the word limit — too long or too short can lose marks.

How Debate Writing is Graded in Class 11 (CBSE Marking Scheme)

Criterion Marks: What They look for relevant content, well-developed, and clear ideas

Fluency & Coherence: For fluency and logical connection between ideas

Grammar & Vocabulary: Correct usage, accurate and appropriate vocabulary

Format: Right structure and well-mannered greetings

Word Limit: Staying within 150–200 words

How Debate skills will change your life beyond school:

Help in top college interviews and performances

Influence during group discussions and job interviews

Make convincing arguments in daily conversations

Deliver speech confidently in public mediums — maybe even TEDxYouth!

Ponder critically about news, politics, and social issues

Ready to Level Up? Tips to Get Started

Try having mock debates with friends or family on current topics.

Watch TED Talks or political debates to learn convincing techniques.

Attend online debate classes (like Bambinos) for expert guidance and effective practice.

Prepare by writing and delivering speeches aloud.

Record your debates and self-correct by identifying the areas to improve.

Shape Your Kid's Future with Bambinos Classes | Bambinos.live India's No. 1 English Communication Platform For Kids | Click here to Book a Free Class Limited time offer.

Article Author

Swati Prasad

Swati Prasad is a seasoned educator and Communication Trainer with 13 years of teaching experience. She holds a Bachelor of Hotel Management and has completed coursework for a Master's in Tourism. Specializing in remote training, Swati has developed strong skills in independent and efficient work, with a focus on communication and organization. Swati's journey in education includes eight years as a Pre-primary teacher, where she honed her ability to connect with young learners. Her passion for teaching and communication extends beyond the classroom, as she is also the published author of two successful children's books: "You Can Be a Whizz Kid Too!" and "Choose Your Path to Happiness.

Discover a wonder-filled world of children's activities near you! Check our online classes.