Indo–German Debate Scrimmage — Participant Guide
- Priya Khaitan
- Feb 2
- 2 min read
What is this event?
The Indo–German Debate Scrimmage is an international online exchange where students from Ivy Spires and partner schools in Germany practise structured academic debate together. The focus is on clarity of thought, respectful discourse, and well-reasoned arguments.
Who can participate?
This scrimmage is open to Ivy Spires members with prior debate experience. Only students with some structured debating background will be selected to ensure meaningful dialogue and balanced participation.
What language will we use?
The debate will be conducted entirely in English so that all students can participate comfortably.
What is the format?
We use the Jugend debattiert format, a widely recognised academic debate structure:
Opening Statements
Each speaker has 2 minutes to clearly state their position and outline key arguments.
Free Discussion
A 12-minute open exchange where participants respond directly to other speakers, build on points, and challenge ideas.
Closing Round
Each speaker gets 1 minute to summarise and reinforce their side’s strongest reasoning.
How many people participate in a round?
4 speakers total
2 Pro (in favour)
2 Contra (against)
Each debate lasts 24 minutes and does not require audience participation.
What potential topics will we debate?
Potential motions include:
Should social media be banned for children under 16?
Should a gender quota be introduced for national parliamentary elections?
Should a mandatory year of social service be implemented?
We may also include a topic drawn from Indian public affairs to make this exchange richer and more reciprocal.
What are the jury looking for?
Judges will evaluate your performance based on four core criteria:
Subject Knowledge
Do you understand the topic and its key issues?
Are your claims clear and supported with reasons?
Expression
Are your ideas articulated clearly and logically?
Is your language appropriate and easy to follow?
Engagement with Others
Do you respond directly to what others say?
Do you connect your points to the discussion?
Persuasiveness
Do you justify your position effectively?
Do you weigh arguments fairly and thoughtfully?
Good debating isn’t about speaking fastest or most often — it’s about making clear, relevant, and well-justified contributions.
Will there be feedback?
Yes. After the scrimmage, each participant will receive personalised feedback from adjudicators. This feedback will:
highlight your strengths
explain areas for improvement
help you develop as a thinker and communicator
Do I need to prepare beforehand?
A format orientation session will be held on 21 February for all registered participants. You should attend this session to understand the structure, expectations, and how rounds will run.
Is this a competition?
No. While there may be winners in individual rounds, this event is designed foremost as a learning experience — a chance to practise skills, learn from peers, and broaden your understanding of academic debate.
How much does it cost?
Participation in the scrimmage costs:
₹2,500 + GST per student
How do I register?
To express interest and be considered for selection: