Cross-examination is a fun alternative to offering Points of Information. In debates using cross-examination, speakers are not allowed to offer Points of Information during the speeches of their opponents.
Rather, at the end of each Main Speech, one of the opposing speakers gets one minute to ask questions about the speech. The speaker has to defend their position by answering the questions put forward. Cross-examination is not allowed during the Summary Speeches.
Each Main Speaker in the debate should have one turn each at being the Cross-Examiner. The timekeeper should time each cross-examination and knock the table or ring a bell when one minute is up.
This is a useful exercise as it can lead to a good depth of clash across the table and means both the Cross-Examiner and the speaker have to think on their feet. It also helps hone rebuttal techniques and Points of Information skills.
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