Class debates

LA listening and speaking outcomes

How to have a debate

• 1) First we have a topic and resolution.• For example We might say that “ since

students are not responsible, be it resolved they should not be allowed to own pets.”.

Then

• We pick sides. Pros are those arguing for the resolution and Cons are those against. The teacher and students will help pick sides.

Step 3

• You spend some time researching your topic and preparing your argument. You can work with those on the same side with you.

• You must find facts to support your opinion. You can not just invent material or use purely emotional pleas.

This is what a debate looks like.

• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BjRO8av-Qck

• Notice how the students take turns• Notice how they have valid points from

research, not just saying how pets are cute and please, please can we have one.(emotional outburst )

Procedure

• Topic• Pick sides• Research• The pros speak first, each one making a statement• Then the cons speak, each person making a statement• Rebuttal – by raising your hand you can make a counter point

to any of the points the opposite team just made. It will switch back and forth orderly pro then con pro then con.

• Time to confer with your team to make closing arguments.• Pros conclude – 1 person from the team speaks• Cons conclude- 1 person from the team speaks

What are topics that interest you ?

• We can choose from this list some topics. • Pick any 5 . Write them down in order of you

preference. • Example make #1 your favourite choice. • http://

kiwiyert.tripod.com/ideas_for_debate_topics.htm