Can you give me a powerful hook regarding the topic "Increase in Tuition Fees?

Question

A powerful hook that would work in a debate

Answer 1

First, I have to admit that I'm NOT an expert on debate, even though I AM an expert on public speaking and on writing. If there is a distinct definition or requirements for "hooks" for debate that is not the one for normal speeches, then I may lead you slightly astray. 

 

Therefore, I'm going to stay pretty general, to avoid giving you any specific bad advice.

 

It should not be a problem because according to this Youtube video that's specific to debate techniques, it seems very much the same:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PqXOPysyQoo

 

So, a hook is just a technique for grabbing the audience's attention.  This next Youtube video is a great, more general explanation of the types of hooks in essays.  This is very relevant to your question, since a short essay (2 pages) is very similar to a debate speech. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rnq17dyxyu4

 

Now, you need to know which side of the debate you're going to be on.  Are you going to be backing an increase, or fighting one? Also, who is the audience that will be determining who won?  Are you speaking to interest the teacher, or a panel of judges, or an audience?

 

The important thing about your hook is that it grabs your particular audience and points their thoughts in the direction that you want them to go. 

 

Suppose you are "for" the increase.  Then, perhaps you could ask the audience to imagine what life at your school would be like without services X, Y and Z, without their favorite teacher, without the comfortable chairs they are sitting on.  Then, in your supporting argument, you show what will be lost if the tuition increase is not allowed.  You show how most students will not be harmed significantly by the increase, and the ones that are will be able to get subsidies... stuff like that.  You close your speech by looping back to the hook, and reminding them that the wonderful things they appreciate about the school are supported by their tuition, and the increase will allow that quality to continue, and perhaps increase.  And, that when they listen to your opponent, they should enjoy the comfort of their chairs, before he takes all that away from them. 

 

Last, here's a quick pointer from my experience. Apply it if it applies, otherwise ignore. 

 

Many speakers thank the moderator and the audience before they start their speech.  It is much more effective to SET THE HOOK FIRST.

 

"As I was flying here, the wing of my plane caught fire and we dropped a thousand feet in less than a minute.  My heart was hammering against my chest, and I thought about all the things I wanted to do with my life.  All the things that I might never finish.    

 

Mister Toastmaster, fellow Toastmasters, honored guests, what have you forgotten to do that's important to you? ..."

 

You can bet that the audience will stay leaning forward until you finish that story.  And you had better not let them down with a "then I woke up."

 

The important thing about a hook is that it's confident, strong, and grabs the audience where they are right now, then pushes them where you want them to go.    It should open them to your point of view, without giving away all the things that will make the rest of your presentation interesting.   

 

Does that tell you where to start?

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Answer 2

Hook: Education on a Dime - Why it Should be Affordable

Answer 3

I would love to help but first, is this informative or persuasive?  What is your thesis?  I ask this because once I know that, then we can come up with a strong hook that will cleverly lead your audience right where you want them!