SKILL #4: Extensions
🎯 Objective:
Learn how to extend your arguments in later speeches by strengthening them with new reasoning or evidence, and connecting them back to the round’s framing.
What is an Extension?
An extension is when you continue to push your argument forward in the debate.
It shows the judge that:
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Your argument still stands (even after their attacks).
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Your argument is more important than your opponent’s.
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You have additional support (new reasoning or evidence) to make it stronger.
Pro Tip: Never just repeat yourself! An extension should rebuild and enhance your argument.
How to Extend an Argument
1️⃣ Restate the argument’s tagline and why it matters.
2️⃣ Reinforce with new evidence or analysis that wasn’t attacked.
3️⃣ Respond to any attacks made against the argument.
4️⃣ Tie back to framing and show why this argument is the key to the round.
Example Extension
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Opponent: “Banning junk food limits freedom.”
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Your Argument: “Banning junk food promotes health.”
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Extension: “Our argument about health remains strong because the opponent failed to refute the core evidence from the CDC. In fact, the long-term benefits of reducing obesity and related diseases far outweigh the minimal restrictions on consumer choice. This directly links back to our framing about justice through health.”
Checklist for a Strong Extension
✅ Restate the argument clearly.
✅ Add new reasoning or evidence.
✅ Address opponent responses (if any).
✅ Link back to framing or the big picture.
✅ Keep it concise and confident.
Practice Exercise
1️⃣ Choose one of your case arguments.
2️⃣ Write an extension for it, adding:
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A restatement of the argument.
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New evidence or analysis.
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A connection to the round’s framing.
3️⃣ Practice delivering your extension aloud.