Read and examine primary source material in order to analyze, synthesize, and debate information about the Great Depression. Critical analysts research various source materials related to the Great Depression. They work in teams to...

Who is responsible for the deaths of Romeo and Juliet? After generating a list of the six characters most responsible, class members prepare for and engage in a formal debate. Prior knowledge of basic rules for debate would be necessary.

The essentials of an argument (claim and support) are examined in a short PowerPoint that also details the structure of the Classical, the Rogerian, and the Toulmin argument. Appropriate for speech and debate classes as well.

Fourth graders present research on war. In this debate lesson, 4th graders create a power point presentation debating for or against the American Revolution. Students share their presentations with the class.

Pupils prepare for an participate in a debate. They watch instructional videos on how debates proceed. Pupils work in teams to research various topics, present their opinions on the issue, and respond to opposing viewpoints during a...

Students work together to research issues surrounding World War II. They review the decisions that were made at the time. They participate in a debate and how those decisions maintained world peace.

This lesson plan starts out with a guided discussion about the statement "Birds fly in the sky; airplanes fly in the sky; therefore, airplanes are birds" and goes on to cover logical fallacies and reliable sources, relating these to the...

Are you planning a debate for your language arts units? Use this lesson to work on debate and discussion procedure, as well as asking thoughtful questions. Middle schoolers work in pairs or small teams to complete research, develop...

In this debating learning exercise, learners study the titles of the five debates. They write two opposing points of view for each debate. Pupils try to persuade for both sides of the view point.

Pupils research the pros and cons of wind farm technology as an alternative source of energy. The class is divided into two groups that should formulate a debate on each side of the argument. Groups use a debate guide to help develop...

Have your class practice their persuasion skills by participating in a class debate. They will discuss a dilemma and detail each point of view. Divided into both sides of the argument, they work in groups to create a well-rounded...

All middle schoolers are experienced in some form of debate. Using their natural talent of arguing and challenging authority, we can channel student energy into a positive learning assignment. Debates offer that natural avenue for...

Groups of learners investigate the persuasive genre of writing as they research and present on an issue. They research the Internet (possible websites are included) for a topic and locate information to present to the opposing team. In...

Students analyze the components of debating and practice what they have learned as they conduct a class debate on the lunar landing. Both sides of the issue are researched and presented to the group.

High schoolers research a historical event containing a controversial topic. After collecting and organizing information, they develop a presentation for their part in a mock trial. Students perform as the judge, jury, defense, witness,...

Young scholars explore the judicial system, its effectiveness, and the many types of justice. They research the judicial system and explore the federal and state court system. Afterward, students read, "To Kill A Mockingbird," and then...

High schoolers learn about China's One Child Policy. They read an article about a specific family's experience under the policy (not included) and research and explain the key points of the policy. They assess the pros and cons in a...

Secondary learners research the arguments that were used to oppose and support the institution of slavery in the United States. After being assigned either pro- or anti-slavery positions, they compose written arguments and participate in...

Have your learners role-play a debate about this statement: "Competition should be banned." Three class members pose as supporters of the ban and three as opponents. They receive role cards that detail the reasons for their position....

Learning to recognize the difference between statements of fact and opinion is an essential skill in our media-rich culture. This detailed resource provides your class members with multiple opportunities to practice this skill. A list of...

For? Against? Or somewhere in between? Faced with a proposition (Students should wear uniforms in school!) pupils position themselves along a continuum. Those for the proposition meet in one corner of the room and prepare their arguments...

Students debate important court cases. Divided into three groups, students accept a position as first debater, second debater and the third group is neutral. At the conclusion of each debate, students vote to determine the winning side.

Two groups consider whether or not the Florida manatee will become extinct during their lifetimes. They research manatee populations and statistics together and then a class debate is held. Afterwards they consider how reliable their...

Here is a four-corner debate-style activity specifically geared to election year issues. Learners group themselves according to whether they strongly agree, agree, disagree, or strongly disagree with statements that relate to elections...