Nature vs Nurture Debates

Psychologists have debated the origins of human behaviour, specifically which has had more influence
nature (genes) or nurture (environment). Some areas where this has been particularly debated are:
intelligence, criminality, aggression, sexuality, etc. With a partner, you will prepare to argue both for
and against ONE of the following
A. Men are naturally more promiscuous than women.
B. Parents and society raise boys to be more aggressive.
C. An idea of your own (4 of you must agree on this) that you have checked with me

Once you have chosen which statement you want to debate you will need to prepare the following
debate notes for both the for side and the against side. You will not be told which side that you are
arguing for until just before the debate (it will be random). Notes must be handed in immediately after
your debate.

The debate format will be:

8 minutes
Opening Statements – each side will give a four minute statement detailing their main points.

15 minutes Question Period – each side will prepare three questions to ask the other side. Teams will
alternate in asking the questions and rebuttals will be permitted.
(5 minutes) Judge’s Questions – judge might ask each side one question.

2 minutes Recess – partners will discuss what they have heard in order to amend their closing statements,
if needed.
4 minutes
Closing Statements – a two-minute summation of the main points.
Total: 30 minutes
This is an illustration of the debate
notes that need to be prepared
Introductory Statement: Main Points ahead of time.
 can be in point form
 clearly spell out your main argument Both debate notes – one for the
for side and one for the against
Question #1 side must be handed in
 for each question, you also need to indicate how immediately after the debate.
you think it will stump your opponents
Question #2 Only one set of notes per pair of

partners needs to be handed in.
Question #3
Make sure both names are on each
Closing Statements: Main Points argument.
 should be adjusted after hearing the main points
of your opponents’ arguments Your debate notes are worth 15
marks.

Debater: _____________________ /25

Presence: eye contact, voice projection, debating skills, believability /5

Strength of Argument: support for their position, quality and accuracy of information, performance on
offense and defense /5