What is the purpose of a "summary speech"?

The purpose of a "summary speech" in a debate is to review the key arguments made throughout the debate. This type of speech serves to highlight the main points and clarify the positions taken by each side, reinforcing the most critical arguments for the audience and judges. By summarizing these points, the speaker provides a coherent wrap-up of the debate, ensuring that the audience retains the essential information and understands the stakes involved in the arguments presented.

In contrast to other functions, a summary speech does not introduce new arguments, which could confuse the audience or detract from the clarity of the debate. Additionally, it typically does not serve as a form of entertainment or challenge voters directly, but rather focuses on recapping and emphasizing what has already been discussed, allowing for a clear comparison of the opposing stances. This makes the summary speech an essential tool for both reinforcing a team’s position and aiding the audience's understanding as they prepare to make a judgment.