🗣️

Debate It!

Two teams argue for and against a simple topic using lesson vocabulary.

⏱ 20-25 min⚡ Low energy👥 2 teams

• opinion language

• I think...

• I believe...

• because

• however

• on the other hand

• Debate topic written on the board

• Optional: opinion phrase cards

📋 How to Play

Choose a simple debate topic — "School uniforms are a good idea" or "Dogs are better than cats."
Divide the class into two teams — FOR and AGAINST.
Give teams 3 minutes to discuss their arguments quietly.
Teams take turns presenting their arguments — one student speaks at a time.
Each student must use at least one opinion phrase — "I think...", "I believe...", "because..."
After all arguments are presented, the class votes on which team argued better.
The team that convinced the most classmates wins.
Play with a new topic — swap sides so teams argue the opposite position.

✓Pre-teach opinion and argument language before playing.

✓Choose topics children care about — food, animals, school, games.

✓Swapping sides after the first debate teaches children to see both perspectives.

✓This activity is outstanding for developing critical thinking and spoken fluency.

→Individual debate — one student argues FOR, one AGAINST, class judges.

→Written debate — teams write their arguments before speaking.

→Use vocabulary from the lesson as the debate topic — "Reading is better than watching TV."

Want full 50-minute lesson plans for Ages 7-10?