English debate : handbook for beginners

This handbook, developed from a needs analysis of English debate programs in Islamic boarding schools, serves as a comprehensive guide for beginner-level students to develop critical thinking, communication, and public speaking skills through structured debate activities. The book begins by introducing debate as a tool for building confidence, logical reasoning, and respectful communication, aligning with both academic and Islamic values. It gradually equips learners with practical language for debate, step-by-step methods for building strong arguments, and techniques for public speaking to ensure clarity, confidence, and audience engagement. Key chapters cover critical thinking skills, including how to analyze arguments, identify logical fallacies, and evaluate evidence. The book also explores different types of debate motions, global debate systems such as Asian, Australasian, and British Parliamentary formats, and adjudication criteria based on matter, manner, and method. Furthermore, it provides guidance on research strategies, case preparation, and teamwork, ensuring students can deliver well-structured, evidence-based arguments. With its user-friendly explanations, practical exercises, and culturally relevant examples, this handbook empowers santri to participate in debates confidently while fostering intellectual curiosity, ethical reasoning, and effective communication in English. It is designed not only as a training manual for debate competitions but also as a resource for educators and students seeking to enhance English proficiency and critical thinking within an Islamic educational context.