411 REFERENCE · Wikibooks
Student Congress Debate/Introductions
Reference material by Wikibooks contributors. This retains its source identity and is not 411 news reporting.
Common types of introductions:
Historical: Link the topic to a historical event
Analogy: Make a comparison between the bill and something else
Refutation: Quote what other representatives have stated and clash with one of their points
Summarize: Rehash the main points in the debate and state their relevance to the debate
Quote: Use a quotation and link it to the legislation (*Be careful. This is often the most overused and uninteresting type of introduction)
Story or Anecdote: Provide a humorous or factual story to illustrate your point
Tips for Introductions:
Keep your introduction short (15-30 seconds)
End with a stance (affirmation or negation) or creatively integrate your points preview into the introduction
Remember to link back to the introduction during the conclusion at the end of your speech