9.1. Introduction

 In academic debate, constructive speeches are followed by cross-examination.  After the 1st Affirmative Constructive Speech is finished, the speaker is questioned by a negative speaker.  Technically, a person who asks questions is called "examiner" and a one who answers is called "examinee."  Cross-examination in debate is similar to the one in legal courts in the sense that speaker from one side asks questions of a person from the other side.  But in debate, speakers are directly confronting each other while in a law court, usually a lawyer is questioning the opposition's witnesses.  Since cross-examination is not a casual conversation, there are certain points to remember.  Then, practice will improve your skills.

9.2. Purposes of Cross-Examination

 The ultimate goal of cross-examination is to advance the team's position in debate.  To achieve it, there are several strategic and tactical considerations.

9.2.1. Strategies and Tactics of Examiner

1. Clarifying
 

2. Exposing weakness
 

3. Setting up arguments
 
 

9.2.2. Strategies and Tactics of Examinee

1. Be honest.
 

2. Qualify your answers.
 
 

9.3. Cross-Examination and Speeches
 

9.4. Manners of Cross-Examination

9.4.1. Be ladies and gentlemen in asking and answering quesitons.

9.4.2. Debaters are addressing to the audience/judges as well as speaking to each other.