Welcome to the WSDL Training Centre.
On this page, you will find a number of resources for learning WSDC debate - all free of charge for students (and teachers) from WSDL member schools.
4 Novice Training Sessions run by our world-class Chief Adjudicator team, and available to watch on our YouTube channel.- 8 Introductory Lesson Videos highlighting some of the key areas of WSDC debate, as well as a downloadable PDF guide to WSDC Format.
- Motion walkthroughs. Study a motion, read the context and guiding questions, then prepare a speech alone or with your teammates. Afterwards, watch the motion analysis video from one of our top coaches, and explore further reading on the topic.
- Video Adjudications. Watch a classic WSDC or WSDL debate, and then watch one of our world class judges deliver an adjudication speech breaking down the debate you just experienced.
1. Introduction to WSDC Debate
2. Constructing Arguments
3. Effective Rebuttals
4. Style and Organization
5. Points of Information
6. Case Building
7. Burdens of Proof
8. Basics of Clash
Guide to WSDC Format (PDF)
Tin Puljić (Croatia)
2021 World Debating Champion Tin talks about the pros and cons of "THW make the number of votes an individual has when voting in an election proportional to their expected remaining lifespan".
Sourodip Paul (Bangladesh)
The new 2022 World Debating Champion Sourodip discusses "THBT states in the developing world should financially incentivize urban to rural migration".
Sharmila Parmanand (Philippines)
Former WUDC and WSDC Chief Adjudicator Sharmila talks us through the motion "THBT schools should teach children to be sceptical of parental authority".
Owen Mooney (Scotland)
Former British and European champion Owen explains some of the details of the motion "THW break up big tech companies".
Shruti Deb (India)
Australs ESL Champion Shruti explores the motion "THBT governments should require that meat packaging include images that vividly and accurately reflect the experiences of the animals slaughtered".
Tota Takahashi (Japan)
The 2021 Asian champion Tota is our guide to the motion "THBT developing countries should prioritize investing in online education over in-person education".
Malaysia vs Indonesia WSDC 2018, with Judge Andy
A WSDC prepared round on lethal autonomous weapons (LAWs) in the company of former WUDC champion and Korea national team coach, Andy Hume.
Canada vs China WSDC 2021, with Judge Ameera
Watch this WSDC 2021 quarterfinal on international military aid with Ameera Moore, Australs champion and former coach of WSDC Malaysia.
Singapore vs Pakistan WSDC 2015, with Judge Jon
Watch this WSDC semifinal on the private lives of politicians, and then review the adjudication from Jon May, former WSDC Team USA debater and now on the Harvard Debate team.