Arguments & Counterarguments
📋 What it is
A strong argument states its claim, gives reasons, AND answers the best objection (the counterargument).
🗣️ Coach says
Weak arguments only give their own side. Strong ones also face the BEST objection and answer it. “Some say phones distract — but a screen-time limit fixes that.” Answering the counter makes your case far harder to knock down.
🧠 Memory hook
State your side, then answer the strongest objection to it. Both halves.
😂 Giggle
What do you call a debate between two walls?
A heated argument with zero room for compromise!
😲 Whoa!
Debate champions research the OTHER side harder than their own — you can’t answer an objection you never saw coming.
⚖️ The claim on trial:
“This is a strong argument: “Phones should be allowed at lunch — some say they distract, but a screen-time limit fixes that.””
You're the judge. Deliver a verdict, pick the evidence that really matters, then reveal.
✓ Well-supported — Well-supported — it does both halves: makes its case AND answers the best objection, which is what makes an argument hard to knock down.
A strong argument answers the best objection, not just its own side.
🧪 Try it! (2 minutes)
Take an opinion you hold, write the STRONGEST objection to it, then answer that objection.