In preparation for my upcoming debate on the ethics behind cetaceans in captivity, I have been reflecting on my first debate two weeks ago on vegetarianism.  The resolution was that everyone in the world should be vegetarian.

I was on the affirmative side despite believing in the other.  I found it almost easier to back up the side I didn’t believe in because I felt like I knew what the opposing side would say because of what I would say.  

I came up with some solid points for my group in the debate preparation plus I offered to be a speaker because I felt confident with my ability to get the point across.

I ended up with about three minute of extra time because of lacking information to elaborate, and it was overall a disaster. 

I learned that having an extreme knowledge of the topic is incredibly important in a debate as well as enough research to back up each point with evidence.  I also realized that once you were well prepared for a debate you could be more tactical just like a sports match.  I my next debate I am going to focus on emphasizing my points and predict what the other team will say so I can be prepared to counter it and use their momentum against them.  

Though my first debate completely fell apart, I think it will make a huge difference in my real debate because I have learned a lot from my failure and am now more prepared with my debate gameplan.