Having a debate doesn't mean you're fighting. Introduce middle schoolers to debate with a resource which distinguishes between an quarrel and a debate, describes the debate process and format, and presents some possible debate topics.

Concepts

debate, active listening, persuasive arguments, facts

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Additional Tags

english language arts

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Instructional Ideas

• Make copies of the first page of the resource for class members to use for taking notes
• Have the class brainstorm a list of possible debate questions

Classroom Considerations

• Although the two-page resource appears to be for learners, the second page is designed for teacher use

Pros

• Includes sentence frames that prompt debaters on appropriate ways to respond when countering arguments, possible debate topics, and tips for organizing a debate

Cons

• None

Common Core

SL.7.1.a SL.7.3 SL.8.1.a SL.8.3 SL.9-10.1.a SL.9-10.3