controversy (noun) major disagreement or dispute among many people

• Sample Sentence: The biggest controversy in the sixth grade last year was whether or not students would be required to wear school uniforms.

• Turn and Talk: Why is there so much controversy surrounding school uniforms? 

justify (verb) to show to be right; to explain

• Sample Sentence: Carl justified his decision to punch Jayce by explaining that Jayce punched him first. 

• Turn and Talk: Do you think a person can justify responding to violence with more violence?

perspective (noun) point of view, way of looking at things

• Sample Sentence: Each of my friends has a unique perspective about which teacher is the best.

• Turn and Talk: What’s your perspective on whether or not people should be able to keep wild animals as pets? 

bias (noun) a tendency to favor some people or ideas over others, often unfairly or without reason; prejudice

• Sample Sentence: Regina’ bias against school uniforms comes from her experience in a very strict private school. 

• Turn and Talk: Do you expect history books to have bias? Why or why not?

*bias (verb) to influence someone for or against something

• Sample Sentence: Raphael didn’t want to bias his friends against the band, so he decided not to mention that they don’t write any of their songs.

• Turn and Talk: Does hearing about musicians’ bad behavior bias you against their music? Explain.

debate (noun) a discussion of a problem where different sides are presented

• Sample Sentence: In Ms. Miles’ classroom, students had a debate about whether junk food should be sold in schools.

• Turn and Talk: Can you think of a debate that caused you to change your mind? What was it about? 

*debate (verb) to argue about an issue; to consider different options in order to make a decision

• Sample Sentence: Cecelia debated whether to drive or take the bus to the concert.

• Turn and Talk: Have you ever debated cutting your hair short or growing it long? What was your decision?

*alternate part of speech