DEBATING
Debating is a competition in which members formally discuss a topic through a structured argument. Each round will involve two opposing teams who will debate a particular law related proposition. These teams will comprise of one Senior Speaker and one Junior Speaker. Each team will then be allocated a position, either supporting or rejecting the proposition. Do not worry if you do not have a partner to sign up with, the Officers will pair you up with someone that you can enter with so that you can still compete.
As a team you will need to discuss who will cover what so that you can begin researching and developing your arguments. It is always a good idea to consider what your opponents might say to prepare counterarguments. You will then need to organise your ideas together, create a structure and prepare your speeches where possible.
This competition is a great opportunity for anyone looking to develop their critical thinking skills as you will gain the ability to make well-reasoned and thought out arguments during an escalated situation. Although any form of public speaking can be daunting for some, this competition is the perfect chance to practice this skill alongside many others. Participating in this competition will most definitely help make your CV stand out within the competitive legal market, so why not give it a try!
As a team you will need to discuss who will cover what so that you can begin researching and developing your arguments. It is always a good idea to consider what your opponents might say to prepare counterarguments. You will then need to organise your ideas together, create a structure and prepare your speeches where possible.
This competition is a great opportunity for anyone looking to develop their critical thinking skills as you will gain the ability to make well-reasoned and thought out arguments during an escalated situation. Although any form of public speaking can be daunting for some, this competition is the perfect chance to practice this skill alongside many others. Participating in this competition will most definitely help make your CV stand out within the competitive legal market, so why not give it a try!
2022/2023 Debating Winners - Chloe Giacalone and Chloe Giacalone with Runners Up Sonia Gardi and Lauren Appleton
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Skills you will develop :
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Members' Experience
"I started the debating competition as someone who couldn't publicly speak at all but with the support of the Debating Officers and my partner I went on to win the competition. Not only did the competition build on this skill but it also taught me lots about the various topics of debates and helped me build on my networking skill. I have been unable to do my week long mini pupillage that was awarded as a result of winning, but I am very much looking forward to it and will be competing in as many competitions as possible that the UPLS hold in September."
- Molly Bennett, 1st Year LLB Law with Criminology and Criminal Justice Student.
"Participating in the UPLS Debate Competition was a great experience for me. Prior to the competition I was somewhat hesitant as I have always found any form of public speaking intimidating. I think this is a common feeling amongst most new participants, however everyone involved was incredibly friendly and supportive. The early rounds of the competition provided a great opportunity to practise speaking within a relatively small group, this has really helped me personally to develop confidence. The feedback that I received from the judges was honest, insightful, encouraging and very useful. Communicating ideas effectively and persuasively is an incredibly valuable and transferable skill with many applications in any legal career, as well as in life generally! In addition to honing my confidence and communication skills, the competition has been a great way to meet new people and form friendships. As a first year competing, I felt that the UPLS was very welcoming. Throughout the competition my teammate was fantastic and working with her has been a pleasure."
- Thomas Wilson, 1st Year LLB Law Student.
"I started the debating competition as someone who couldn't publicly speak at all but with the support of the Debating Officers and my partner I went on to win the competition. Not only did the competition build on this skill but it also taught me lots about the various topics of debates and helped me build on my networking skill. I have been unable to do my week long mini pupillage that was awarded as a result of winning, but I am very much looking forward to it and will be competing in as many competitions as possible that the UPLS hold in September."
- Molly Bennett, 1st Year LLB Law with Criminology and Criminal Justice Student.
"Participating in the UPLS Debate Competition was a great experience for me. Prior to the competition I was somewhat hesitant as I have always found any form of public speaking intimidating. I think this is a common feeling amongst most new participants, however everyone involved was incredibly friendly and supportive. The early rounds of the competition provided a great opportunity to practise speaking within a relatively small group, this has really helped me personally to develop confidence. The feedback that I received from the judges was honest, insightful, encouraging and very useful. Communicating ideas effectively and persuasively is an incredibly valuable and transferable skill with many applications in any legal career, as well as in life generally! In addition to honing my confidence and communication skills, the competition has been a great way to meet new people and form friendships. As a first year competing, I felt that the UPLS was very welcoming. Throughout the competition my teammate was fantastic and working with her has been a pleasure."
- Thomas Wilson, 1st Year LLB Law Student.
To view the 'UPLS Debating' Facebook page, click here.