| A | B |
|---|
| Resolution | Limits the debate. Allows for an even distribution of ground for both the affirmative and negative teams. |
| Affirmative | Support the resolution. Argue for a change in the status quo, or the current state of things. |
| Negative | Against the resolution. Argue to maintain the status quo. |
| Prima facie | Stock issues that the affirmative team must prove to show that the affirmative case is a good example of the resolution. The burden of proof lies with the affirmative. |
| topicality | A stock issue. The affirmative team must stay on topic and within the framework of the resolution. |
| Significance | A stock issue. The affirmative team must show that the problem is important. |
| Harms | A stock issue. The affirmative team must show that the problem will result in harm or bad results. |
| Solvency | A stock issue. The affirmative team must present a solution that will practically reduce or eliminate the harms of the problem. |
| Inherency | A stock issue. The affirmative team must present evidence that action is necessary. The affirmative team must present a plan that is new. If the plan is already in existence, then there is no need to enact it. |
| Fiat | The assumption that the affirmative team’s solution will be put into action. The negative team cannot argue that the solution will never be put into action because of external pressures, such as Congressional approval. |
| Cross-examination | When one debater is able to ask clarification questions of an opponent. |
