Critical Debates

Individual students select the side of an issue that is contrary to their own views. They then form teams and discuss, present, and argue the issue against an opposing team. Preparing for, participating in, and listening to debates offers many benefits to students. Debates can increase motivation, enhance research skills, promote critical thinking, and develop communication proficiency. Critical Debate may build appreciation for diversity and develop tolerance for other viewpoints.

1. Propose the motion and ask students to identify which side of the proposition they most support. They can indicate a preference by raising their hands or by writing their names and choice on a sign-up sheet of piece of paper.
2. Explain to students that they will argue the side that is contrary to their own beliefs, stressing the benefits of arguing against their personal views.
3. Divide students into four-to six-member teams, with half the teams assigned to the opposing argument. Try to get as many students as possible arguing for the side they disagree with, realising that especially with complex issues, students will likely not divide evenly. A large group of students who “don’t know” or who gravitate toward a middle position will provide a fair amount of flexibility in group formation.
4. Explain ground rules and give students time to assign roles and organise how they will prepare for and conduct the debate.
5. Give students time to prepare their arguments.
6. Pair teams representing opposing sides.
7. Announce and allow time to present arguments.
8. Give teams time to prepare rebuttals.
9. Announce and allow time to present rebuttals.
10. Hold a whole-class discussion to summarise the important issues and to give students the opportunity to discuss the experience of arguing opinions they do not hold.

• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_CPLu3qCbSU
• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CW8JQfjmhCEa

• http://lessonplanspage.com/teaching-critical-thinking-through-debate/