Debate

Debates are a way for students to practice using academic vocabulary and articulating a viewpoint.

Directions for Debate Activity:

  • Organize students in groups of 3; assign each student in the group a letter (A, B or C)
    • A=Judge
    • B debates for the topic
    • C debates against the topic
  • The judge selects a topic.
  • Debaters prepare for 2 minutes.
  • B presents (2 minutes)
  • C presents (2 minutes)
  • B rebutts (1 minute)
  • C rebutts (1 minute)
  • Judge asks questions (3 minutes)
  • Judge decides which side presented a stronger argument.
  • Repeat procedure; switching roles.

NOTE: The objective of the debates is fluent oral communication.  Debate topics should not be too controversial or require extensive research.

Sample debate topics:

  • Space travel is a  waste of money
  • Social media does more harm than good
  • Putting wild animals in cages in zoos is cruel
  • Senior citizens should have to retake driving tests every year
  • People should live together before marriage
  • All state colleges and universities should be free
  • All public schools should require uniforms
  • Eating and drinking should be prohibited on public transportation.