How to Write a Speech if You're Third Speaker

Last Updated: December 10, 2022 References

There are three key roles on a debate team: first speaker, second speaker and third speaker. While the first and second speakers concentrate on building a substantive case, the third speaker has a unique job in that he or she must use their time to attack their opponent's case. This guide will help you create an outline for your argument if you are the third speaker on your debate team.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Before the Debate

1
Create a list of key points from your first and second speaker so that you have them ready when it comes time to give your closing summary. If you cannot prepare this in advance, take notes while the first and second speakers are talking.
- Make a list of the main arguments of first and second speakers on your team. Use the notes to rebut arguments of the opposing side.
- Throughout the debate, note down key clashes and the main arguments of the opposing side.^{[1]
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- State the clashes and explain/analyze why your side has won in each clash.
2
Draft a persuasive closing statement. You can make changes to your statement throughout the debate, if need be, after taking notes on your challenger's arguments.^{[2]
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Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Third Speaker Proposition

1
Restate your team's position.
2
Rebut the opposition's arguments. While it may seem redundant with some of the work the first or second speaker has done, this is an opportunity for a new angle to be presented (e.g. impact on individual vs. impact on society). Take notes while you listen to the first speakers on the opposing side so that you can appropriately rebut key points they've made.^{[3]
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3
Defend your affirmative arguments with supporting examples. Prepare different cases than your first and second speaker so that you are not just repeating previous examples.^{[4]
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4
Provide a concise summary of your case by listing arguments from your first and second speaker and any strong, supporting examples they may have used. ^{[5]
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5
End your speech with your closing statement.^{[6]
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Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Third Speaker Opposition

1
Rebut the proposition's arguments by using a new and different angle for your argument. You should complement the work the first and second speakers have done, while keeping the argument fresh. You do not want your argument to get stale.^{[7]
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2
Defend negative arguments by using appropriate supporting examples.^{[8]
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- It is important to note that if you are a third speaker on an opposing team, you are not creating a constructive argument. Presenting a new argument at this time would not allow the proposing team to rebut. The arguments you are defending are arguments that have already been made by your first and second speakers.
3
Provide a concise summary of your case by listing arguments from your first and second speaker and any strong, supporting examples they may have used.
4
End your speech with your closing statement.

Community Q&A

Question

Can I rebut what the second speaker has already rebutted?

Community Answer

Yes, if you are a third speaker. Make sure to cover as many of the 'big' or 'major' rebuttals your other team members have rebutted.
Question

Is it okay for a third speaker to introduce new information in a debate?

Community Answer

No! Third speakers are forbidden to introduce new arguments, but you can present the first and second's in a new light.
Question

Does the third speaker begin by rebutting the opposing team, or summarizing their own team's arguments?

Community Answer

Rebutting. You still haven't finished your argument until after you rebuttal, so you certainly don't summarize yet.