Debate · lesson 12 of 24 · free

Points of information — Debate and group discussion

A point of information (POI) is a short question or remark offered to the speaker from the other side. Stand and say “On that point” or “Point of information”; the speaker accepts (“Yes, please go ahead”) or declines (“Not at this time, thank you”). Keep it to about 15 seconds, never in the protected first and last minute, and sit down politely if declined.

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Debater's tip

Short, polite, at the right time — “offer in the open minutes, keep it to about 15 seconds, accept the answer”

  1. Offer: stand, say “On that point”, wait to be accepted, ask one short question (about 15 seconds).
  2. Not in the protected first and last minute; do not shout, repeat nonstop or argue when declined.
  3. As a speaker: accept one or two POIs, answer briefly, then carry on.

Use it for: Formal school debates and any debate format where POIs are allowed.

Worked example: ✋ Is the speaker accepting or declining a POI? “Not at this time, thank you.” → declining a POI

  1. “Not at this time” politely says no for now.
  2. So the speaker is declining a POI.

Check: Practise aloud: with a partner speaking, offer one POI politely, then switch and accept one and answer it in one sentence ✓

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🖨️ Debate Worksheet: Points of Information

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