A debate is a discussion between two opposing sides on a specific theme, subject or moot. Debates are often held in school competitions, in business and in various sectors of government and can be done formally or informally. The rules for debating are usually known by both sides and they vary depending on the format and types. For example, in a school debate, both teams will have opening and
. closing statements and a time is given which may be from 3 " 8 minutes. Each team will be required to have questions for the opposing team as well as each team will be required to answer questions. Other rules involve respecting the other teams, waiting your turn to respond and you should know that opinions and facts are different and they should be treated as such. To see some debate rules visit the websites of paulnoll.com at http://www.paulnoll.com/Books/Clear-English/debate-advice.html, and ontology.buffalo.edu at http://ontology.buffalo.edu/smith/courses98/DEBATERULES.htm.
