How to Write a Speech if You're Third Speaker

Co-authored by Patrick Muñoz

Last Updated: August 13, 2024 Fact Checked

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 they 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

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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.
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

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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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Prepare different cases than your first and second speaker so that you are not just repeating previous examples.
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]
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Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Third Speaker Opposition

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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.
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Defend negative arguments by using appropriate supporting examples.^{[6]
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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.
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.

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Can I rebut what the second speaker has already rebutted?

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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.

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

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

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

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

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Tips

Know your argument.^{[7]
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Start research on your position early so that you are adequately prepare to write a proper speech.

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Take notes and adjust your speech as you listen to each speaker.

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