Internal Structure

Always emphasize your argument. This means that whether you are discussing your opponents’ argument or your own, spend the most time and rhetorical energy on your argument. Speaking about your argument second, giving your side the last word. You want to end on a positive note, which should be why the judge wants to prefer your side.

Disregard previous speech organizations. Do not feel that you have to address arguments in order. You should be organizing arguments strategically to end on a strong point as well as make effective comparisons.

If you are the second speaking team, do not copy your opponent’s Summary structure. Even if you agree on their assessment of the most important arguments or speech model, you should introduce a new, better way to look at the round. If you use the same structure you run the risk of A) appearing as though your opponents are in control B) you agree with your opponents’ analysis and C) the judge may lost the distinction between Pro and Con. If your opponent chooses the same arguments you want to discuss, make small changes in the presentation. Choose a new order for arguments, use different rhetoric, rank the importance of each argument differently, or structure the speech under your Framework.

The true art of the Summary is speaking about your arguments while referring to your opponents’ claims. Weave in offense and defense as you discuss parts of the round. Effective Summaries make comparisons rather than restate arguments.