how to write a balloon debate speech

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Balloon Debates: Templates and Tips!

Balloon debates are a great way of promoting research and presentational skills, and invariably make for a very lively lesson!

Lesson 1: Students research a character and prepare their presentations

In the first lesson, each student needs to choose (or will be allocated) a character relating to the topic of study (for example, eminent Victorians).
Names can be allocated randomly to the students using the ClassTools Random Name Picker .
Each student should then be given a copy of the PowerPoint Template which they can use to frame their research:

Note: Defining “Importance”

To be historically important, a person must do some or all of the following:

Lesson 2: Conducting the Balloon Debate

Year 7 Balloon Debate: Who was the most INTERESTING Roman Emperor?

A. Getting Ready for the First Round – focusing on ‘positives’

▪ Give the students 10 minutes to refresh their memories and to revise the material.

▪If they had homework time before the lesson, they will hopefully have made a mask ready for the debate.

▪ Get the PowerPoints saved into a public area so they can be shown on the whiteboard.

B. The first round of the debate – focusing on ‘positives’

▪ Four or five students stand at the front. Choose these randomly using the Classtools name picker .

▪ The first student’s Powerpoint is put onto the screen. The student is not allowed to read the slide – it’s there for the benefit of the audience – and they can only speak for 60 seconds, explaining what they did and why they deserve to stay in the balloon (note: they should speak in the first person, i.e. as if they ARE the character).

▪At the end of their speech, invite questions from the audience. These can be answered directly, OR the student concerned can nominate a ‘researcher’ to make a note of these questions and start finding the answers to them.

▪ Repeat this format for the other four students.

▪Go back to each of the nominated ‘researchers’, one after the other, to get answers to the questions raised during the debate.

▪ Each member of the audience then has to vote for just one character to be thrown OUT of the balloon.

▪ The two characters who get the least votes are then ‘thrown out’ (or even bottom three, depending on the size of the class / time available).

▪ This process is repeated with the remaining people in the class.

C. Getting ready for the final round of the debate – focusing on ‘negatives’

Round 2: Dish the Dirt – possible search terms for students to use when using the web to research negative points about the rival finalists!

▪ Each finalist now works with a team consisting of the people they defeated in Round 1.

▪ Their task is to gather evidence AGAINST the other finalists, for example suggesting that they were insignificant, unheroic, and so on.

▪ In this way, the focus of the whole debate is changed, everybody remains engaged, and the final will not merely consist of rehearsing the same old points a second time.

D. The final round of the debate – focusing on ‘negatives’

▪ The finalists should line up at the front of the class.

▪ The first finalist should explain why the person to their left does NOT deserve to stay in the balloon. The person criticised in this way should be given a chance to respond before they in turn criticise the person to their left. The person at the end of the line should criticise the person who started the discussion.

▪ The audience then has to vote who should be thrown out. It is important that they don’t vote for who should stay in – because there is too much of a tendency for students to vote in favour of the finalist whose team they belong to.

▪ The ‘Two hands / One hand” voting system works well here: in this format, students raise two hands (=two votes against) their least favourite character, and one hand against the second least-favoured. This makes for a slightly more sophisticated voting outcome.

Step 4: Written outcomes

As a written “outcome” you could get students to answer the questions:

Who were the last three people to survive in the balloon, and why were they considered so important?
How could you argue that your character was more important than any one of the three finalists?

Taking it further

Get students to make a mask to wear during the debate. See this post on the ClassTools blog for some ideas.
Students could produce a Diamond9 Diagram ranking the importance of different characters.
Students could produce a ‘Paper People’ project to connect the various characters discussed during the debate.

Balloon Debate: Knockout Template!

Balloon Debate: Quickstart Guide for Teachers

Balloon Debate: Research Template

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Education and Communications
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Public Speaking

How to Write a Debate Speech

Last Updated: April 12, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Patrick Muñoz . Patrick is an internationally recognized Voice & Speech Coach, focusing on public speaking, vocal power, accent and dialects, accent reduction, voiceover, acting and speech therapy. He has worked with clients such as Penelope Cruz, Eva Longoria, and Roselyn Sanchez. He was voted LA's Favorite Voice and Dialect Coach by BACKSTAGE, is the voice and speech coach for Disney and Turner Classic Movies, and is a member of Voice and Speech Trainers Association. There are 9 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 1,495,398 times.

So, you've joined debate, and it's time to write a debate speech. There are some tried and true methods to writing an effective debate speech. If you understand them, and the components that make up a standard debate speech, you will increase your chances of success.

Sample Speeches

Preparing for the Debate Speech

You may be asked to stand affirmative or negative. In LD (Lincoln-Douglas debate), the first affirmative speech will be at most 7 minutes long, and the first negative speech will be at most 6 minutes. [1] X Research source
The speakers then present arguments against the earlier affirmative or negative speech that was just read. Speakers must listen carefully and be able to counter arguments. There are two segments involving cross-examination (CX), in which the debaters are allowed to ask questions and openly debate the topic. This is most often called cross-examination, or cx for short, and occurs after the first affirmative speech, and the first negative speech.
The best thing you can do to better understand LD/PF/Policy debate is practice and research.

Step 2 Research the topic very thoroughly with credible information.

Brainstorm the topic, and research it before you sit down to write. Write out a list of key components for both sides of the issue. If you are on a debate team, do this together. Each member could discuss the key component list, in order to figure out which issues you want to cover in each speech.
Spend some time at the library or on the Internet using credible sources to research the key reasons that seem strongest. Use books, scholarly journals, credible newspapers, and the like. Be very cautious about unverified information bandied about on the Internet.
You will also want prepare to deal with the strongest arguments your opponent(s) might make. Ignoring the other side’s best arguments can weaken your rhetorical appeal.

A basic debate outline should contain six parts: An attention-getter, your stated stance (aff or neg)/ restatement of the resolution, your definitions, your value, criterion, and contentions.
You can break each of those six parts into subcategories. It’s often a good idea to write the contentions last, focusing on the value and criterion to hold it up first.

Writing the Debate Speech

Step 1 Write an introduction that is catchy and interesting.

You should address the jury or audience with formal salutations. For example, you could say something like, “Good morning, ladies and gentlemen.” Debates are very formal in tone.
Making a good first impression with the judges is very important. This leads judges to assume the debater is persuasive. One technique to write a strong introduction is to contextualize the topic, especially in relation to real world events. [6] X Trustworthy Source American Bar Association Leading professional organization of lawyers and law students Go to source
Introductions can also focus on prominent examples, quotations, or on a personal anecdote that can help establish a rapport with the audience and judges. Be careful using humor; it involves risks and can lead to awkward silences if not done right. Find a relevant specific that illustrates the underlying point.

Step 2 Outline where you stand very clearly.

Don’t muddle your position. It needs to be extremely clear whether you affirm or negate the resolution, so don’t hem and haw and contradict yourself. The audience also should not have to wait until the end to find out. Make your stance very clear, and do it early on
For example, you could say, “my partner and I firmly negate (or affirm) the resolution which states that unilateral military force by the United States is justified to prevent nuclear proliferation.” [7] X Research source

Step 3 Make key points to back up your stance.

A good rule of thumb is to back up your position with 3-4 strong points of supporting argumentation. You definitely need to have more than 1 or 2 key points to back up the stance you have taken.
The body of the speech – the key points and their development – should be, by far, the longest part of the debate speech (perhaps 3 ½ minutes to 30 seconds for an opening and for a conclusion, depending on the rules of the debate you are doing).

Focus on the causes of the problem, the effects of the problem, expert opinion, examples, statistics, and present a solution. Try to use visual images, not just generic terms – show don’t tell, and illustrate a point with details.
Appeal to the motives and emotions of the listener with a light touch. Appeal to their sense of fair play, desire to save, to be helpful, to care about community, etc. Ground examples in how people are affected.
Try using rhetorical questions, which make your opponents consider the validity of their point; irony, which undermines their point and makes you seem more mature and intelligent; simile, which gives them something to relate to; humor, which gets the audience on your side when done well; and repetition, which reinforces your point.

Step 5 Understand the art of persuasion.

Aristotle believed that speakers were more persuasive if they combined elements of logos (persuasion by reasoning) with pathos (having an element of emotional appeal) and ethos (an appeal based on the character of the speaker) - for example, that they seem intelligent or of good will.
There are two ways to use logic – inductive (which makes the case with measurable evidence like statistics or a specific anecdote or example) and deductive (which makes the case by outlining a general principle that is related to the specific topic to infer a conclusion from it - as in, I oppose all wars except those involving imminent self defense; thus, I must oppose this one because it's a war that was not in imminent self defense, and here's why). Or the reverse.
You should use pathos sparingly. Emotional appeal on its own can be dangerous. Logos - the appeal to reason - should be at the core. However, logical appeal without any pathos at all can render a speech dry and dull. Consider what you are trying to make your audience feel. Explaining how a topic affects real people is one way to use pathos well.

Concluding the Debate Speech

One strong way to conclude a debate speech is to bookend the conclusion with the opening, by referring back to the introduction and tying the conclusion into the same theme.
Quotations can be a good way to end a speech. You can also end with a brief summation of the key arguments of the speech to ensure they remain fresh in judges’ minds.

Step 2 Work on your delivery from beginning to end.

Use a clear, loud voice, and be careful to watch pacing. You don’t want to speak too loud or too slowly. Remember that confidence goes a long way toward persuasion.

Expert Q&A

Reader Videos

Never add new points in your speech because you still have time, as you might not present it in the best way. When you are nervous, you might even say an argument in favor of the other side and you don't want that. Thanks Helpful 31 Not Helpful 2
Never degrade your topic. Thanks Helpful 32 Not Helpful 3
Don't use all your points in your debate- in an actual debate, it is sometimes useful to have other information to cite if the argument starts going their way Thanks Helpful 29 Not Helpful 3

Tips from our Readers

You can make a sample opening and closing speech beforehand so you can focus more time on developing your arguments during the actual debate.
Make sure to include rebuttals in your speech, as they are just as important as your main arguments.
Practice as much as possible — it will make you more confident and help you maintain eye contact.
Imagine you're just practicing with a friend rather than performing in front of an audience.
Take deep breaths before starting to ease nerves.

Remember, just because you can write a debate speech, it doesn't mean you can say a debate speech effectively. Practice! Thanks Helpful 22 Not Helpful 5

↑ http://www.learndebating.com/english/DEBATING.pdf
↑ https://guides.lib.uw.edu/research/faq/reliable
↑ Patrick Muñoz. Voice & Speech Coach. Expert Interview. 12 November 2019.
↑ https://www.hamilton.edu/academics/centers/oralcommunication/guides/how-to-outline-a-speech
↑ https://www.americanbar.org/groups/litigation/resources/newsletters/trial-evidence/five-tips-engaging-opening-statements/
↑ http://www.oxfordsd.org/Page/5582
↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/argument/
↑ https://www.comm.pitt.edu/persuasive-speaking
↑ https://www.comm.pitt.edu/speech-anxiety

About This Article

To write a debate speech, start by researching the topic thoroughly with credible and scholarly sources, and make an outline of your argument including an introduction, thesis argument, key points, and conclusion. Write the thesis argument and develop 3-4 strong points of argumentation. Be sure to clearly state your stance, and utilize expert opinions, statistics, and examples to support your opinion. To finish the speech, write an interesting introduction that incorporates your thesis and a brief conclusion that summarizes your main points. If you want to learn more, such as how to make your debate speech persuasive, keep reading the article! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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The Balloon Debate: An Integrated ESL Classic in 6 Easy Steps

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Balloon debate

The concept of a balloon debate is that a hot air balloon is coming down and in order to save any of the passengers, others will need to be thrown overboard. Different students represent the people (or objects/concepts/materials) in the balloon and argue in turn to the class (or group if being done in groups) why they should be saved. If they are thrown overboard their contribution to humanity goes with them. The audience evaluate the relative cases and vote the people off the balloon one by one. This could be done with scientists / inventors / materials / mathematical formulae / writers / artists / musicians / philosophers / public services or anything else which links to your curriculum.

Debate Speech - Ultimate Writing Guide for Students

What Is A Debate Speech?

A debate speech is a formal presentation where you argue for or against a specific topic.

It involves structured arguments presented in different sections, aiming to persuade the audience with facts and convincing points. It's a way of discussing and trying to show why your side is the right one on a particular subject.

Key Elements of A Debate Speech

A debate typically includes several essential elements to effectively communicate your position and persuade the audience. These elements form the building blocks of a strong debate speech:

Opening Statements: These kick off the debate, presenting the main arguments for your side or against the motion. It sets the tone for the discussion.
Rebuttals: In this stage, you respond to the arguments made by the opposing side, highlighting weaknesses or presenting counterpoints.
Summary: Towards the end of the debate, a summary is provided to reinforce your main arguments and explain why your perspective is stronger. This section aims to leave a lasting impression on the audience.
Use of Evidence: Supporting your arguments with evidence, facts, and examples strengthens your position and makes your speech more convincing.
Logical Reasoning: Presenting arguments in a clear, logical sequence enhances the coherence and persuasiveness of your speech.
Rhetorical Appeal: Adding appeals like ethos, pathos and logos to your speech can engage the audience, making your points more relatable and impactful.

How To Prepare For Debate Speech?

Creating a compelling debate speech requires a methodical approach that ensures a clear, convincing, and organized presentation. Let's delve into the detailed steps for an effective preparation:

Choosing a Position

Start by selecting a clear stance or position regarding the debate topic. Decide whether you are arguing for or against the motion. Understanding and committing to your position forms the foundation of your speech.

Conducting Thorough Research

Gathering information for your debate speech is really important. Look at different sources like books, reliable websites, and experts' ideas.

Find facts, numbers, and real stories that support what you want to say. It's key to use strong and trusted information that backs up your side of the argument.

When you collect different types of information, it makes your speech stronger and more convincing. This way, you'll be well-prepared to explain your ideas during the debate.

Structure The Key Points

After research and collecting points, organize your main arguments in a clear and logical manner to effectively convey your position in the debate. Set sufficient time to each key point to ensure they're adequately developed and presented.

You can do this by following a debate format. Here is a standard debate speech format for a 20-15 minutes long debate:

How to Start a Debate Speech

Crafting a compelling opening for your speech involves capturing the audience's attention while introducing key points of discussion.

You can achieve this by using attention-grabbing techniques such as sharing an eye-opening fact, a powerful quote, or a personal anecdote related to the topic.

Additionally, it's beneficial to briefly outline the key areas of discussion that you'll cover in your speech. By providing a sneak peek of the main points, you offer the audience a roadmap of what's to come.

This not only piques the audience's interest but also helps them anticipate and follow the structure of your speech.

Structure Your Arguments

Structuring arguments in the debate speech means organizing your ideas in a way that makes sense to others.

A well-structured argument often uses the P-E-E format, which stands for Point, Evidence, Explanation (P-E-E):

Point or Reason: Begin by stating your main argument or reason. This is the central idea you want to convey in support of your position.
Evidence: Provide evidence, facts, or examples that support your point. This evidence should be reliable and back up what you're saying.
Explanation: Explain how your evidence supports your point. Make it clear to your audience why this evidence is important and how it links to your argument.

This structure helps make your arguments more persuasive and clear. It enables you to present your points effectively, support them with evidence, and explain why that evidence matters in the context of your argument.

Address Counterarguments (Rebuttals)

Addressing counterarguments involves anticipating the opposing viewpoints and crafting responses, known as rebuttals , within your speech. A rebuttal is a persuasive counter-argument that challenges or opposes the points raised by the other side.

By thinking ahead and having strong responses, you showcase a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.

This approach makes your argument stronger and shows your skill in defending your position, boosting your speech's credibility.

How to End a Debate Speech

Concluding your debate speech effectively is as important as starting it strong. Here are two impactful ways to conclude your speech:

Summarize Key Points with a Call to Action Example: "In conclusion, the evidence overwhelmingly supports the idea that [your stance on the topic]. As we leave here today, let's not merely acknowledge the importance of [debate topic] but commit to [call to action], ensuring a brighter future for all."
End with a Powerful Quote or Statement Example: "As [relevant figure] once wisely said, '[insert impactful quote].' Let these words guide us in our understanding of [debate topic]. Together, we can [highlight the desired outcome or change]."

Review And Practice

The last step is to review and practice a lot. Read through your speech to make sure it all makes sense and fits the time limit.

Practice how you talk, how fast or slow, and how you use your body while speaking. Also, be ready to answer questions or handle different arguments.

Do a few final practice rounds to feel more confident and comfortable. This way, you'll be well-prepared and ready to deliver a strong debate speech.

Debate Speech Examples for Students

For students, understanding how to structure and present a debate speech is crucial. Here are some debate speech samples to help you grasp the basics of debating:

First Speaker Debate Speech Example

2nd Speaker Debate Speech Example

3rd Speaker Debate Speech Example

Short Example Of Debate Speech

Debate Speech Structure

Examples can serve as a great starting point. Check out more expertly crafted debate examples for inspiration!

Tips for an Effective Debate Speech

Crafting a persuasive and impactful debate speech requires careful consideration and strategic planning. Here are key tips to enhance the effectiveness of your presentation:

Tailor language to match the audience's demographics and interests.
Strengthen arguments with credible sources and diverse perspectives.
Organize with a clear introduction, well-developed body, and strong conclusion for a logical flow.
Capture attention with a compelling quote, question, or anecdote.
Support arguments with relevant statistics, examples, and real-world scenarios.
Anticipate opposing viewpoints and incorporate strong rebuttals.
Clearly articulate and repeat key ideas to reinforce your stance.
Maintain a dynamic and engaging delivery by varying tone and pace.
Pay attention to body language, eye contact, and gestures.
Allocate time wisely for each speech segment to ensure a well-paced presentation.
Be prepared to adapt to unexpected changes during the debate.
Practice multiple times to enhance clarity, emphasis, and pacing, boosting confidence.

Need to polish your debate? Have a look at this in-depth blog on debate techniques and get effective tips!

Debate Speech Topics

Here are some unique topic ideas for you to write a debate on.

Credit cards are more harmful than debit cards.
We are becoming too dependent on technology.
Marriage is an outdated concept.
Homework is necessary with regard to the learning process.
Being a college graduate in the United States is necessary for a successful career.
It is a good idea to have laptops in classrooms.
Facebook is a better social platform than Twitter.
Cell phones can be used as educational tools.
Junk food must be banned in high schools and colleges.
The Prime Minister of any state enjoys more power than the president.

Can’t pick a topic? Check out this extensive blog with multiple debate topics and get unique ideas!

You are now better equipped to confidently prepare and deliver your debate speech.

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Activity: Balloon Debate

Published by awalls86 on april 18, 2018 april 18, 2018.

For more ESL games and activities, click here .

Balloon Debates

It can be difficult to think of debate topics that get students engaged. One that rarely fails is the balloon debate, as students have to debate as though their life depends on it!

The basic idea is that a number of people are travelling on a hot air balloon. As they approach a mountain they realise there is not enough fuel to get over the mountain. The only option therefore is for one (or more) people to make the ultimate sacrifice.

Focus: Speaking
Level: Intermediate+
Age: Teens/Adult
Target Language: Persuading, making and countering arguments, justifying and giving reasons
Time: 20-40 mins
Preparation: Minimal

1: Assign roles to students for this exercise. You could ask students to think of a celebrity, which they write and pass to the person on their left. It is worth ensuring all students have a different celebrity.

2: Explain the premise of the activity. All the students are enjoying a hot air balloon ride and are passing over a mountain range (using local geography may increase interest). Unfortunately they haven’t got enough fuel and will crash unless they eject one (or several) celebrities. To decide who gets to live, they will have a debate.

3: Give students time to prepare their arguments for why they should get to live. Students may find it useful to consider questions such as “how does their job help people?” and “what can they give back after?” Students can also suggest other people to be thrown out and give reasons why.

4: Conduct debate. Allow each person to present their case for why they should stay. After, allow arguments about who they should throw out of the balloon and give these people a chance to defend themselves.

5: Finally, hold a vote to decide who to throw out of the balloon.

Example: S1: I should stay because I’m a pop star. I have entertained millions of people. Little girls look up to me and will be heartbroken if I die. Also I have done a lot of charity work. I have given some of my wealth to schools in Africa. If you let me stay, I promise I will use all of the money from my next tour to fight poverty. S2: I don’t think we need singers. Besides, she hasn’t had a good song in years. Anyway I’m a businessman and my empire is worth billions, so I can give more to charity.

Variations:

1: The balloon occupants need not be celebrities but simply representatives of professions (e.g. a footballer, a nurse, an engineer). It may also help to provide students with role cards of the various professions in this case.

2: Because students benefit from repeated opportunities, this exercise can be easily refreshed. Instead of a soon-to-crash balloon, students could imagine they are in a plane with two few parachutes, or on a sinking ship with insufficient space for all on the lifeboat. It could also generate other debate topics based on the idea of scarcity and its impact on differing social groups. More advanced students may even be able to come up with their own debate topics.

Imagine you are back in civilization and speaking to a reporter/lawyer about the terrible events that happened on the balloon. Write a statement to sum up what happened on the balloon.

Example Roles:

The scientist

You are a researcher at a major university. You had a scientific breakthrough ten years ago when you discovered how to treat a rare disease. Presently you are focused on curing cancer. However, after ten years of research, you don’t appear to be any closer to a solution. You are divorced and never had children.

The factory worker

You are a low level employee in a big factory. You are married with five children. Your oldest child starts university soon. In your spare time, you are an active member of your community – coaching a children’s football team, helping out at a homeless shelter and driving a minibus for blind people.

You are a sixty year old surgeon. Last week you saved three people who had been in a horrible car accident. You have been in medicine for thirty five years, but you will retire in the next few years to spend time with your wife, children and grandchildren.

The footballer

You are a young, gifted footballer with the potential to play for the biggest clubs. Already you earn a lot of money, but you have spent it all on cars and parties. You are single with no children.

The politician

You are a local politician who has been in office for five years. You are married and have two children at university. Recently you voted on several unpopular decisions, which has turned local people against you. However, you believe the decisions you made were in the best interests of the city.

photo credit: jurvetson Balloon in the French Alps via photopin (license)

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The Most Powerful Debate Speech Strategy And Topic Ideas

Hrideep barot.

Speech Topics

Welcome to the exciting world of debate speech and topics! Forget the fancy jargon; let’s talk about how debates aren’t just about winning arguments. Picture it as a journey where we explore ideas and connect. We’re not just tossing words around; we’re diving into the core of what makes us tick.

Think of debates as more than just convincing speeches. They’re like a doorway to understanding and connecting with people. It all begins with a strong start – our introduction. It’s not just about capturing attention; it’s about inviting everyone into a space where ideas clash and minds expand.

In this space, words aren’t just tools; they’re the architects of who we are becoming. Our journey is more than winning debates; it’s about developing critical thinking, becoming great communicators, and understanding each other better. So, let’s kick off this adventure together, where the magic of debate isn’t just in the words we say but in how they shape us along the way.

11 Greatest Debate Topics Of All Time.

How To Write a Debate Speech?

Ways In which Debate Helps Shape Overall Personality.

10 powerful debate strategies which can never go wrong. .

Conclusion.

1. The Existence of a Higher Power: God vs. Atheism

Theological Arguments: Explore philosophical and theological arguments for the existence of God, such as the cosmological, teleological, and moral arguments.

Scientific Perspectives: Consider scientific perspectives that challenge traditional religious beliefs, including evolutionary theory and the Big Bang theory.

Personal Beliefs: Discuss the role of personal experiences and beliefs in shaping one’s stance on the existence of a higher power.

2. Freedom of Speech vs. Hate Speech Laws

Importance of Free Expression: Discuss the fundamental value of free expression in a democratic society and its role in fostering diversity of thought.

Harm Principle: Explore the harm principle as a criterion for limiting speech and the ethical considerations in regulating hate speech.

Balancing Rights: Consider the challenges in striking a balance between protecting individual rights and preventing harm to marginalized communities.

3. Legalization of Recreational Drugs: Pros and Cons

Individual Liberty: Discuss the argument for individual liberty, asserting that adults should have the autonomy to make choices about their bodies.

Public Health Concerns: Explore the potential negative impacts of drug legalization on public health and societal well-being.

Economic Implications: Consider the economic implications, including potential tax revenue and job creation, associated with the legalization of recreational drugs.

4. Climate Change: Human-Made vs. Natural Causes

Scientific Consensus: Examine the overwhelming scientific consensus supporting the idea that human activities contribute significantly to climate change.

Skeptic Perspectives: Discuss skeptical views that challenge the extent of human impact on climate change, considering natural climate variations.

Policy Implications: Explore the policy implications of different perspectives, including the urgency for mitigation and adaptation measures.

5. Capital Punishment: Morality and Deterrence

Retribution and Justice: Discuss the concept of retribution and whether capital punishment serves as a just response to heinous crimes.

Deterrence Effect: Examine the debate over the deterrent effect of capital punishment on potential criminals.

Risk of Wrongful Execution: Consider the ethical implications of the potential for wrongful executions and the irreversible nature of the death penalty.

6. Immigration Policies: Open Borders vs. Strict Control

Economic Contributions: Discuss the economic benefits of immigration, including contributions to the labor force and entrepreneurship.

National Security Concerns: Explore concerns related to national security, public resources, and the potential strain on social services.

Humanitarian Considerations: Consider the moral and humanitarian aspects of providing refuge to those fleeing violence or seeking a better life.

7. Assisted Suicide: Right to Die vs. Sanctity of Life

Autonomy and Dignity: Discuss the principle of autonomy and an individual’s right to make decisions about their own life, including the choice of assisted suicide.

Ethical and Religious Perspectives: Examine ethical and religious perspectives that emphasize the sanctity of life and the moral implications of assisted suicide.

Legal Implications: Consider the legal frameworks and ethical guidelines surrounding assisted suicide in different jurisdictions.

8. Privacy in the Digital Age: Security vs. Individual Rights

Surveillance Technologies: Explore the capabilities and implications of modern surveillance technologies, including mass data collection and facial recognition.

National Security Justifications: Discuss arguments that support increased surveillance for national security purposes, especially in the context of preventing terrorism.

Individual Privacy Concerns: Examine concerns related to the erosion of individual privacy rights, data breaches, and the potential for abuse of surveillance powers.

9. Universal Basic Income: Reducing Inequality vs. Economic Sustainability

Poverty Alleviation: Discuss the potential of a universal basic income (UBI) to alleviate poverty and provide financial stability to all citizens.

Economic Viability: Explore concerns about the economic feasibility and sustainability of implementing UBI, including potential impacts on workforce participation.

Social and Economic Equity: Consider how UBI might address systemic inequalities and contribute to a more equitable distribution of resources.

10. Censorship in the Arts: Protecting Morality vs. Freedom of Expression

Artistic Freedom: Discuss the importance of artistic freedom as a form of expression and creativity.

Moral and Cultural Sensitivities: Explore the need for censorship to protect societal values, moral standards, and cultural sensitivities.

Role of Cultural Context: Consider how cultural context and shifting societal norms influence the boundaries of artistic expression.

11. Animal Testing: Scientific Advancement vs. Animal Rights

Scientific Progress: Discuss the contributions of animal testing to scientific and medical advancements, including the development of new treatments and pharmaceuticals.

Ethical Treatment of Animals: Examine the ethical considerations surrounding the use of animals in research, focusing on animal rights, welfare, and alternatives to testing.

Balancing Interests: Explore the challenge of balancing scientific progress with the ethical treatment of animals, seeking common ground that respects both human and animal interests.

These elaborations provide a more in-depth understanding of each controversial debate topic, touching on various perspectives, considerations, and implications associated with each issue. Each topic reflects a complex interplay of values, ethics, and practical considerations that make them enduring subjects of discussion and debate.

How To Write A Debate Speech ?

Introduction: grabbing attention.

Begin your debate speech with a captivating introduction to immediately capture the audience’s interest. Consider using a powerful quote, a relevant anecdote, or a surprising fact related to your topic. The goal is to create an immediate connection with your listeners and set the stage for the discussion that follows. Make it clear why the topic is important and worthy of their attention. You might also include a brief overview of the main points you will cover to provide a roadmap for your audience.

Thesis Statement: Clearly State Your Position

Craft a concise and compelling thesis statement that communicates your stance on the topic. This statement should serve as the central point around which your entire speech revolves. Take the opportunity to highlight the significance of your position and why it is the most rational or ethical perspective. Additionally, consider briefly acknowledging the existence of opposing views to demonstrate your awareness of the complexity of the issue.

Main Arguments: Develop Strong Points

For each main argument, delve into detailed explanations supported by robust evidence. This evidence could include relevant research findings, real-life examples, or historical precedents. Be sure to explain the logical connections between your points and the overall thesis. Use persuasive language to underscore the importance of each argument, making it clear why the audience should find your perspective compelling.

Addressing Counter Arguments: Anticipate and Refute

Demonstrate a thorough understanding of the opposing viewpoint by anticipating counterarguments. Acknowledge these counterarguments respectfully before providing well-reasoned and persuasive refutations. This not only strengthens your position but also shows intellectual honesty and a willingness to engage with diverse perspectives. Use facts, logic, and reasoning to effectively dismantle counterarguments, leaving your audience with a sense of the robustness of your position.

Emphasize Impact: Appeal to Emotions and Values

While presenting your arguments, strategically incorporate emotional appeals to resonate with your audience. Share relatable stories, connect your points to shared values, and use language that evokes an emotional response. This not only adds depth to your speech but also helps create a memorable and impactful impression. A balance between logic and emotion can make your arguments more persuasive and relatable.

Use Persuasive Language: Enhance Convincing Power

Employ a variety of rhetorical devices and persuasive language techniques to enhance the power of your speech. Metaphors, analogies, and vivid language can make complex ideas more accessible and memorable. Consider using repetition to emphasize key points and create a rhythmic flow in your speech. Aim for clarity and precision in your language to ensure that your audience easily grasps the nuances of your arguments.

Maintain Clarity and Organization: Structured Delivery

Organize your speech in a clear and logical structure to facilitate easy comprehension. Begin with a strong introduction, followed by a clear progression of main points. Use transitions between ideas to maintain coherence and guide your audience through the flow of your arguments. A well-structured speech not only aids understanding but also enhances the overall impact of your message.

Engage the Audience: Foster Connection

Encourage active engagement by incorporating rhetorical questions, interactive elements, or moments of audience participation. Foster a sense of connection by speaking directly to the concerns and interests of your listeners. Consider using relatable examples of anecdotes that resonate with the experiences of your audience. Engaging your listeners in this way can create a more dynamic and memorable speech.

Conclusion: Reinforce Your Message

In your conclusion, re-emphasize the key points of your speech and restate your thesis with conviction. Summarize the main arguments in a way that reinforces your overall message. Conclude with a powerful and memorable statement that leaves a lasting impression on your audience. Avoid introducing new information in the conclusion; instead, focus on leaving a strong and final impact that reinforces the significance of your position.

Q&A Preparation: Be Ready for Questions

Anticipate potential questions that may arise from your audience and prepare thoughtful and well-reasoned responses. Demonstrating a thorough understanding of your topic and the ability to address inquiries with confidence adds credibility to your overall presentation. Consider practicing responses to common questions to refine your ability to articulate your position effectively. During the Q&A session, maintain composure and be open to constructive dialogue, further showcasing your expertise and conviction.

Remember, the key to a successful debate speech lies not only in the strength of your arguments but also in your ability to connect with and persuade your audience. Regular practice, feedback, and a genuine passion for your topic will contribute to a compelling and influential presentation.

Check this out to learn about public speaking and debate differences.

Critical Thinking Skills:

Engaging in debates cultivates critical thinking by training individuals to analyze information rigorously. Debaters learn to identify key arguments, evaluate evidence, and discern logical connections. This process enhances their ability to approach complex issues with a discerning and analytical mindset.

Effective Communication:

Debate serves as a powerful platform for honing effective communication skills. Participants develop the art of articulation, mastering the ability to express ideas clearly and persuasively. Regular exposure to public speaking opportunities not only boosts confidence but also refines the delivery of compelling messages.

Check this out to learn how to deliver a memorable speech:

Research and Information Retrieval:

Debates foster strong research skills as individuals delve into diverse topics, evaluate sources, and synthesize information effectively. This process not only enhances information literacy but also teaches valuable skills in data analysis and interpretation.

Empathy and Understanding:

The nature of debates, where participants engage with a variety of viewpoints, promotes empathy and a deeper understanding of different perspectives. Exposure to diverse opinions encourages individuals to appreciate cultural nuances and fosters a more inclusive worldview.

Conflict Resolution Skills:

Debates contribute to the development of conflict resolution skills by emphasizing constructive dialogue and negotiation. Participants learn to navigate differences of opinion, seek common ground, and work towards resolutions collaboratively.

Leadership Qualities:

Active participation in debates fosters leadership qualities such as confidence and initiative. Debaters often take charge of researching, organizing arguments, and leading team efforts, contributing to the development of effective leadership skills.

Time Management:

The time constraints inherent in debates teach individuals to prioritize information effectively. Participants learn to cover multiple points within a structured timeframe, enhancing their ability to manage time efficiently.

Check this out to learn how to ace a 2-minute speech:

Teamwork and Collaboration:

Debating frequently occurs in team settings, fostering teamwork and collaboration. Participants develop skills in effective communication within teams, resolving conflicts, and achieving collective goals.

Debate, as a structured and disciplined form of discourse, provides a platform for personal growth and the development of a well-rounded personality. It not only enhances cognitive and communication skills but also nurtures qualities such as empathy, adaptability, and ethical decision-making, contributing to the holistic development of individuals.

1. Solid Research And Preparation: The Foundation Of Success

In-Depth Understanding: Devote time to thoroughly understand the nuances of your chosen topic. Conduct extensive research to be well-informed on various aspects of the issue.

Counterargument Anticipation: Anticipate potential counterarguments that opponents might present. This allows you to proactively address opposing views and strengthen your position.

Factual Support: Arm yourself with concrete evidence, facts, and statistics. This not only bolsters your credibility but also adds weight to your arguments.

2. Clear And Concise Communication: Precision Matters

Clarity of Expression: Express your ideas in a straightforward and easy-to-understand manner. Avoid unnecessary complexity that might confuse the audience and dilute your message.

Key Message Emphasis: Emphasize key points with precision. Clearly articulate your thesis and ensure that each supporting argument aligns with and reinforces your central message.

Memorable Language: Use language that is both concise and memorable. Craft statements that leave a lasting impression, making it easier for the audience to recall your key arguments.

3. Active Listening: Addressing Counterarguments Effectively

Attentiveness: Actively listen to your opponents during the debate. Paying close attention allows you to respond effectively and demonstrate respect for differing viewpoints.

Acknowledgment of Valid Points: Acknowledge valid points made by the opposition. This not only showcases your fairness but also allows you to engage in a more constructive and nuanced debate.

Strategic Response: Respond thoughtfully to counterarguments. Be prepared to address opposing views with well-reasoned and compelling rebuttals.

4. Adaptability: Flexibility In The Face Of Challenges

Responsive Approach: Be prepared to adapt your strategy based on the flow of the debate. Flexibility allows you to navigate unexpected turns and respond effectively to evolving circumstances.

Open-Mindedness: Demonstrate an open-minded approach to new information. If presented with compelling evidence, be willing to adjust your stance accordingly.

Strategic Agility: Develop the ability to think on your feet and adjust your arguments and responses as the debate unfolds.

5. Emotional Intelligence: Connecting With Your Audience

Understanding Audience Emotions: Consider the emotions and values of your audience. Tailor your arguments to resonate with the experiences and concerns of the people you are addressing.

Emotional Appeals: Incorporate emotional appeals strategically. Connecting with the audience on an emotional level makes your arguments more relatable and persuasive.

Empathy in Communication: Use empathy to establish a genuine connection. Demonstrate an understanding of the perspectives and emotions of your audience.

6. Confidence And Body Language: Projecting Authority

Confident Posture: Maintain a confident and upright posture throughout the debate. Projecting confidence through body language contributes to your perceived authority.

Eye Contact: Make deliberate and consistent eye contact with the audience and opponents. This not only conveys confidence but also fosters a sense of connection.

Vocal Presence: Ensure a strong and clear vocal presence. Speak with conviction and avoid vocal patterns that may suggest uncertainty.

7. Strategic Use of Time: Maximize Impact

Time Allocation: Strategically allocate your time to cover all key points without rushing. Prioritize high-impact arguments and allocate sufficient time for their presentation.

Strategic Pauses: Use strategic pauses for emphasis. Pauses allow the audience to absorb your points and can add weight to your arguments.

Time Management Skills: Develop effective time management skills to ensure that your speech is well-paced and impactful.

8. Consistency in Messaging: Reinforce Your Core Points

Unified Message: Maintain consistency in your messaging throughout the debate. Reinforce your core arguments and thesis to create a cohesive and unified presentation.

Avoiding Contradictions: Be vigilant about avoiding contradictions in your arguments. Inconsistencies can weaken your overall position and undermine your credibility.

Repetition for Emphasis: Repetition can be used strategically to emphasize key points and ensure that your central message is reinforced.

9. Engage the Audience: Foster Connection and Interest

Relatable Examples: Connect with the audience by using relatable examples and anecdotes. Grounding your arguments in real-life situations makes your message more accessible.

Interactive Elements: Encourage audience engagement through rhetorical questions or interactive elements. Active participation fosters a sense of involvement and interest.

Addressing Audience Concerns: Speak directly to the concerns and interests of your audience. Tailor your arguments to resonate with the experiences and values of those you are addressing.

10. Grace Under Pressure: Navigate Challenges with Composure

Calm Demeanor: Remain calm and composed, especially when faced with challenging questions or counterarguments. A composed demeanor enhances your perceived competence and confidence.

Professionalism: Handle pressure with grace and professionalism. Maintain focus on the substance of your arguments rather than getting derailed by external pressures.

Effective Problem-Solving: Develop effective problem-solving skills to address unexpected challenges. Navigating pressure with composure demonstrates resilience and adaptability.

By incorporating these elaborated strategies into your debating approach, you can enhance your effectiveness, build credibility, and leave a lasting impression on your audience. Continuous practice and refinement will contribute to your growth as a skilled and persuasive debater.

In summary, the world of debate is a transformative journey that extends beyond the exchange of arguments. Crafting a debate speech is more than an exercise in persuasion; it’s an opportunity to refine our ability to connect with others. Exploring profound topics in debates prompts introspection and broadens our understanding of the world.

Powerful debate strategies go beyond winning; they teach us adaptability and the importance of emotional intelligence. It’s not just about presenting arguments; it’s about becoming individuals who can navigate life’s challenges with resilience and grace. Debate shapes our personality in multifaceted ways. It cultivates critical thinking, enhances communication skills, and instills empathy. Engaging with diverse perspectives fosters a more nuanced worldview, contributing to a well-rounded personality.

In essence, the debate is a dynamic and evolving process that leaves an unerasable mark on our character. It’s a journey that molds us into individuals capable of not only articulating ideas persuasively but also of connecting with others on a deeper level. Through debate, we become architects of our growth, equipped with the skills and perspectives needed to thrive in the ever-changing landscape of life.

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How to Write a Winning Debate Speech

What is a Debate?

A classroom debate involves students delivering persuasive speeches to present and support their opinions on a given subject. This activity helps develop critical thinking and communication skills, enabling students to gain a more comprehensive grasp of various topics.

Debate speeches are written according to a set of rules so a moderator can assess their effectiveness and allow others to question or challenge their statements within a formal debate.

A classroom debate is not an unruly fight or pointless argument but a structured formal conversation on a chosen topic in which two teams argue for or against it to convince the neutral moderator that they hold the stronger position.

Debating is a form of persuasive communication, and while we will be sticking to the fundamentals of how to write a debating speech, we also have a great guide to persuasive essay writing that elaborates on specific persuasive techniques.

Complete Teaching Unit on Class Debating

debate speech,debating | class debating unit 1 | How to Write a Winning Debate Speech | literacyideas.com

This unit will guide your students to write excellent DEBATE SPEECHES and craft well-researched, constructed ARGU MENTS ready for critique from their classmates.

Furthermore, this EDITABLE UNIT will provide the TOOLS and STRATEGIES for running highly engaging CLASSROOM DEBATES.

How To Run A Classroom Debate

Before jumping in headfirst to write your debating speech, ensure you understand how a debate is run to maximise your strategy and impact when it counts.

Debates occur in many different contexts, such as public meetings, election campaigns, legislative assemblies, and as entertainment on television shows. These contexts determine the specific structure the debate will follow.

This guide provides a basic step-by-step debate structure we can comfortably run with students in a classroom. By familiarizing students with this structure, they will effortlessly transition to other debate frameworks.

Running a classroom debate can be an engaging and educational activity that helps students develop critical thinking, communication, and research skills. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to organize and facilitate a successful classroom debate:

1. Choose a Topic For Your Debate.

Also called a resolution or a motion , the topic is sometimes chosen to debate. This is usually the case in a school activity to practice debating skills.

The resolution or motion is usually centered around a true or false statement or a proposal to change the current situation. Often, the motion starts, ”This House believes that….”

Select a topic relevant to your curriculum and the students’ interests. Ensure that it is debatable and has multiple perspectives. Further down this article, you can find a list of popular classroom debating topics.

2. Form Two Debating Teams

Two teams of three speakers each are formed. These are referred to as ‘ The House for the Motion ’ or the ‘ Affirmative ’ team and ‘The House Against the Motion ’ or the ‘ Negative ’ team.

Preparation is an essential aspect of debating. The speech and debate team members will need time to research their arguments, collaborate, and organize themselves and their respective roles in the upcoming debate.

They’ll also need time to write and rehearse their speeches. The better prepared and coordinated they are as a team, the greater their chances of success in the debate.

3. Assign Roles to Students.

Each team member should have a specific role, such as speaker, researcher , or rebuttal specialist . This encourages teamwork and ensures that each student is actively involved.

4. Research and Preparation:

Allocate time for teams to research and prepare their arguments. Encourage students to use multiple sources, including books, articles, and reputable websites. Make sure you read our complete guide to powerful student research strategies.

5. Set Debate Format:

Define the debate format, including the structure of each round. Common formats include opening statements, cross-examination, rebuttals, and closing statements.

6. Establish Rules:

Set ground rules for the debate, such as time limits for each speaker, etiquette, guidelines for respectful communication, and consequences for rule violations.

7. Conduct a Practice Debate:

Before the actual debate, conduct a practice round. This helps students become familiar with the format and allows you to provide feedback on their arguments and presentation skills.
On the day of the debate, set up the classroom to accommodate the format. Ensure that each round has a clear structure, and designate a timekeeper to keep the debate on schedule.

9. Facilitate Q&A Sessions:

After each team presents their arguments, allow time for questions and cross-examination. This encourages critical thinking and engagement among the students.

10. Evaluate and Debrief:

After the debate, provide constructive feedback to each team. Discuss the strengths and weaknesses of their arguments, presentation skills, and teamwork. Also, please encourage students to reflect on what they learned from the experience.
Have a class discussion about the debate, exploring different perspectives and opinions. This can deepen students’ understanding of the topic and enhance their critical thinking skills.

Consider integrating the debate topic into future lessons or assignments. This reinforces the learning experience and allows students to delve deeper into the subject matter.

Remember to create a supportive and respectful environment throughout the debate, emphasizing the importance of listening to opposing views and engaging in constructive dialogue.

Each speaker takes a turn making their speech, alternating between the House for the Motion, who goes first, and the House Against the Motion. Each speaker speaks for a pre-agreed amount of time.

Ensure your debate is held in front of an audience (in this case, the class), and occasionally, the audience is given time to ask questions after all the speeches have been made.

Finally, the debate is judged either by moderators or by an audience vote.

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Download our Debate Organizer

Stay fousssed with this handy template to keep all your ideas organized.

How To Write A Debate

How to start a debate speech.

In highly competitive speech and debate tournaments, students are only provided the topic on the day, and limited time is allowed for preparation, but this is not recommended for beginners.

Regardless of the stakes of your classroom debate, the speechwriting process always begins with research. Thorough research will provide students with both the arguments and the supporting evidence for their position on a topic and generate forward-thinking about what their opponents might use against them.

Writing Your Introduction

The purpose of the introduction in a debate speech is to achieve several things:

Grab the attention of the audience,
Introduce the topic
Provide a thesis statement
Preview some of the main arguments.

Grab The Attention Of Your Audience With Strong Hooks

Securing the audience’s attention is crucial, and failure to do this will have a strong, negative impact on how the team’s efforts will be scored as a whole. Let’s explore three proven strategies to hook your audience and align their thinking to yours.

Introduce Your Topic With Efficiency and Effectiveness

Once the audience’s attention has been firmly grasped, it’s time to introduce the topic or the motion. This should be done straightforwardly and transparently to ensure the audience understands the topic of the debate and the position you are approaching it from.

For example, if the topic of the debate was school uniforms, the topic may be introduced with:

Provide Your Thesis Statement

A thesis statement is a concise declaration summarizing the points and arguments of your debating speech.

It presents a clear stance on a topic and guides the reader on what to expect in the content.
A good thesis statement is debatable and allows for opposing viewpoints and discussion.
It serves as a roadmap for the writer, ensuring coherence and focus in the piece.
It helps the audience understand the purpose and direction of the work from the beginning.

The thesis statement should express the student’s or the team’s position on the motion. Clearly explaining the speaker’s side of the debate. An example can be seen here.

Provide A Preview Of Your Arguments

The final part of the introduction section of a debate speech involves previewing the main points of the speech for the audience.

There is no need to go into detail with each argument here; that’s what the body of the speech is for. It is enough to provide a general thesis statement for each argument or ‘claims’ – (more on this to follow).

Previewing the arguments in a speech is especially important as the audience and judges only get one listen to a speech – unlike a text, which can be reread as frequently as the reader likes.

debate introduction examples for students

Attention grabbers task.

After explaining the different types of attention grabbers and the format for the rest of the introduction to your students, challenge them to write an example of each type of opening for a specific debate topic.

When they’ve finished writing these speech openings, discuss with the students which one best fits their chosen topic. Then, they can continue by completing the rest of the introduction for their speech using the format described above.

You might like to try a simple topic like “Homework should be banned.” you can choose from our collection further in this article.

Writing T he Body of the Speech

The body paragraphs are the real meat of the speech. They contain the in-depth arguments that make up the substance of the debate, and How well these arguments are made will determine how the judges will assess each speaker’s performance, so it’s essential to get the structure of these arguments just right.

Let’s take a look at how to do that.

How to structure an Argument

With the introduction out of the way, it’s time for the student to get down to the nitty-gritty of the debate – that is, making compelling arguments to support their case.

There are three main aspects to an argument in a debate speech. They are:

The Warrant

Following this structure carefully enables our students to build coherent and robust arguments. Ttake a look at these elements in action in the example below.

Brainstorming Arguments

Present your students with a topic and, as a class, brainstorm some arguments for and against the motion.

Then, ask students to choose one argument and, using the Claim-Warrant-Impact format, take a few moments to write down a well-structured argument that’s up to debate standard.

Students can then present their arguments to the class.

Or, you could also divide the class along pro/con lines and host a mini-debate!

Concluding a Debate Speech

The conclusion of a speech or a debate is the final chance for the speaker to convey their message to the audience. In a formal debate that has a set time limit, the conclusion is crucial as it demonstrates the speaker’s ability to cover all their material within the given time frame.

Avoid introducing new information and focus on reinforcing the strength of your position for a compelling and memorable conclusion.

A good conclusion should refer back to the introduction and restate the main position of the speaker, followed by a summary of the key arguments presented. Finally, the speaker should end the speech with a powerful image that will leave a lasting impression on the audience and judges.

debate speech,debating | classroom debating | How to Write a Winning Debate Speech | literacyideas.com

Examples of strong debate Conclusions

The Burden of the Rejoinder

In formal debates, the burden of the rejoinder means that any time an opponent makes a point for their side, it’s incumbent upon the student/team to address that point directly.

Failing to do so will automatically be seen as accepting the truth of the point made by the opponent.

For example, if the opposing side argues that all grass is pink, despite how ridiculous that statement is, failing to refute that point directly means that, for the debate, all grass is pink.

Our students must understand the burden of the rejoinder and ensure that any points the opposing team makes are fully addressed during the debate.

The Devils Advocate

When preparing to write their speech, students should spend a significant proportion of their team collaborating as a team.

One good way to practice the burden of the rejoinder concept is to use the concept of Devil’s Advocate, whereby one team member acts as a member of the opposing team, posing arguments from the other side for the speaker to counter, sharpening up their refutation skills in the process.

20 Great Debating Topics for Students

Should cell phones be allowed in schools?
Is climate change primarily caused by human activities?
Should the voting age be lowered to 16?
Is social media more harmful than beneficial to society?
Should genetically modified organisms (GMOs) be embraced or rejected?
Is the death penalty an effective crime deterrent?
Should schools implement mandatory drug testing for students?
Is animal testing necessary for scientific and medical advancements?
Should school uniforms be mandatory?
Is censorship justified in certain circumstances?
Should the use of performance-enhancing drugs be allowed in sports?
Is homeschooling more beneficial than traditional schooling?
Should the use of plastic bags be banned?
Is nuclear energy a viable solution to the world’s energy needs?
Should the government regulate the fast food industry?
Is social inequality a result of systemic factors or individual choices?
Should the consumption of meat be reduced for environmental reasons?
Is online learning more effective than traditional classroom learning?
Should the use of drones in warfare be banned?
Is the legalization of marijuana beneficial for society?

These topics cover a range of subjects and offer students the opportunity to engage in thought-provoking debates on relevant and impactful issues.

The Ultimate Guide to Opinion Writing for Students and Teachers

Top 5 Persuasive Writing Techniques for Students

5 Top Persuasive Writing Lesson Plans for Students and Teachers

23 Persuasive writing Topics for High School students

How to Write Perfect Persuasive Essays in 5 Simple Steps

Debating strategies for students.

Research and preparation are essential to ensure good performance in a debate. Students should spend as much time as possible drafting and redrafting their speeches to maximize their chances of winning. However, a debate is a dynamic activity, and victory cannot be assured by pre-writing alone.

Students must understand that the key to securing victory lies in also being able to think, write (often in the form of notes), and respond instantly amid the turmoil of the verbal battle. To do this, students must understand the following keys to victory.

When we think of winning a debate, we often think of blinding the enemy with the brilliance of our verbal eloquence. We think of impressing the audience and the judges alike with our outstanding oratory.

What we don’t often picture when we imagine what a debate winner looks like is a quiet figure sitting and listening intently. But being a good listener is one of our students’ most critical debating skills.

If students don’t listen to the other side, whether by researching opposing arguments or during the thrust of the actual debate, they won’t know the arguments the other side is making. Without this knowledge, they cannot effectively refute the opposition’s claims.

Read the Audience

In terms of the writing that happens before the debate takes place, this means knowing your audience.

Students should learn that how they present their arguments may change according to the demographics of the audience and/or judges to whom they will be making their speech.

An audience of retired school teachers and an audience of teen students may have very different responses to the same arguments.

This applies during the actual debate itself too. If the student making their speech reads resistance in the faces of the listeners, they should be prepared to adapt their approach accordingly in mid-speech.

Practice, Practice, Practice

The student must practice their speech before the debate. There’s no need to learn it entirely by heart. There isn’t usually an expectation to memorize a speech entirely, and doing so can lead to the speaker losing some of their spontaneity and power in their delivery. At the same time, students shouldn’t spend the whole speech bent over a sheet of paper reading word by word.

Ideally, students should familiarize themselves with the content and be prepared to deliver their speech using flashcards as prompts when necessary.

Another important element for students to focus on when practising their speech is making their body language, facial expressions, and hand gestures coherent with the verbal content of their speech. One excellent way to achieve this is for the student to practice delivering their speech in a mirror.

And Finally…

Debating is a lot of fun to teach and partake in, but it also offers students a valuable opportunity to pick up some powerful life skills.

It helps students develop a knack for distinguishing fact from opinion and an ability to assess whether a source is credible or not. It also helps to encourage them to think about the other side of the argument.

Debating helps our students understand others, even when disagreeing with them. An important skill in these challenging times, without a doubt.

Debating Teaching Strategies

Clearly Define Debate Roles and Structure when running speech and debate events: Clearly define the roles of speakers, timekeepers, moderators, and audience members. Establish a structured format with specific time limits for speeches, rebuttals, and audience participation. This ensures a well-organized and engaging debate.

Provide Topic Selection and Preparation Time: Offer students a range of debate topics, allowing them to select a subject they are passionate about. Allocate ample time for research and preparation, encouraging students to gather evidence, develop strong arguments, and anticipate counterarguments.
Incorporate Scaffolded Debating Skills Practice: Before the actual debate, engage students in scaffolded activities that build their debating skills. This can include small group discussions, mock debates, or persuasive writing exercises. Provide feedback and guidance to help students refine their arguments and delivery.
Encourage Active Listening and Note-taking during speech and debate competitions: Emphasize the importance of active listening during the debate. Encourage students to take notes on key points, supporting evidence, and persuasive techniques used by speakers. This cultivates critical thinking skills and prepares them for thoughtful responses during rebuttals.
Facilitate Post-Debate Reflection and Discussion: After the debate, facilitate a reflection session where students can share their thoughts, lessons learned, and insights gained. Encourage them to analyze the strengths and weaknesses of their arguments and engage in constructive dialogue. This promotes metacognitive skills and encourages continuous improvement.

By following these tips, teachers can create a vibrant and educational debate experience for their students. Through structured preparation, active engagement, and reflective discussions, students develop valuable literacy and critical thinking skills that extend beyond the boundaries of the debate itself.

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Implementing debates in the primary classroom

Author: Debbie Newman
Main Subject: CPD
Subject: English
Date Posted: 03 June 2017

Why debate?

Debating is gaining in popularity in England’s primary schools, both as an extracurricular activity and as a teaching tool in the classroom. So, if your view of debating is that it belongs in public schools and elite university unions, it’s time to think again. The format allows children to practise developing an argument, then support it with evidence and defend it against attack. It teaches the vocabulary and grammatical structures of making your point. It enhances critical thinking and active listening. It builds confidence in speaking and, if done regularly, the skills quickly transfer to written work. And most of all, it’s fun.

How to get started

First, you need a topic. For early debates it’s good to choose something that is in your pupils’ direct experience, for example banning homework or allowing mobile phones in schools. As they gain confidence, you can debate controversial subjects such as outlawing zoos or abolishing the monarchy. You can even set topics to support your curriculum areas, for example: ‘It was better to live in Victorian times’. And if you want to add to the theatre of debate, you can use parliamentary language. Call your topic ‘the motion’ and phrase it “This house would…” to mimic the political process.

Then, you need two teams, the Proposition and the Opposition, who will argue for and against the motion. The format is flexible (at Tower Hamlets we have even done 20-speakerper- side debatathons!), but we recommend three or four speakers on each side. You can allow the children to choose their own sides, but personally I like to allocate them a position. Discovering that every issue has two sides is a powerful lesson of debating.

Finally, you need a chairperson to keep order and call on the speakers to speak in turn, a timekeeper to make sure nobody speaks for too long (we recommend two- or threeminute speeches for Key Stage 2) and an audience (the rest of the class) who will listen, make points in the audience debate and ultimately vote to carry or defeat the motion.

Getting ready to debate

You can prepare two topics at a time with a class of up to 30. Divide the class into four groups and give each group one side of one of the topics to prepare. Then follow these five steps:

1. Brainstorm ideas

The aim of this is to gather as many points as possible. Successful group brainstorms often start with some silent time to allow individuals to think, followed by a group collection of points. You might want to appoint a chair and a secretary for each group, and using Post-it notes can be an effective way of capturing the ideas. The group may need some stimulus materials if the topic is unfamiliar to them.

2. Organise ideas

Each group needs to identify six points to use to make their case. They need to scrap insignificant arguments and join similar ones together to make larger points. They also need to number and label these six points, and divide them between the first two speakers. Initially, pupils may need support in this process but they soon become skilled prioritisers.

3. Structure the speeches

If it is their first debate then the class need to learn the structure of a speech and how to fill in pro forma sheets (see tinyurl.com/TPDebateForm for an example).

4 Prepare the speeches

The speakers need to make some notes to flesh out their three points. They need to explain the point persuasively, and use some evidence to back it up. However, they should be discouraged from writing copious notes to keep the debate as a spoken-word activity. The third speaker on each side summarises the debate, so they need to decide on key points of which to remind the audience.

5. Prepare the rest of the class

While the speakers are preparing their speeches, the rest of the group could be anticipating the other side’s points and preparing rebuttals, drafting questions for the audience debate or designing posters to hang behind the debate. There is plenty of room for differentiation here. At this stage you also need to appoint a chairperson and timekeeper for the debate and provide them with their pro forma sheets.

You’re nearly there, but if you or your class still need guidance, the best way to get the idea of the format is to watch a debate in action. You can see a number of them at tinyurl.com/ TPDebates which were filmed as part of the Linklaters Hackney Debate Challenge. For the last eight years primary schools in Hackney have competed to become their borough champions. Setting up a local league or having a friendly debate against another school (or even another class) can be a good focus for the debating you do.

You can also find find ideas on how to further engage the audience, lists of topics, pro forma speech sheets, more details on how to prepare for and asses debates and many other useful resources on our website at noisyclassroom.com.

Something to shout about

Want to spice up the usual debate format? here a three formats to get your kids talking…

Balloon debates

The concept of a balloon debate is that a hot air balloon is coming down, and in order to save any of the passengers others will need to be thrown overboard. Different students represent the people (or objects / concepts / materials) in the balloon and argue in turn to the class or group why they should be saved. If they’re thrown overboard, their contribution to humanity goes with them. The audience evaluates the relative cases and votes the people off the balloon one by one. This could be done with scientists, inventors, materials, mathematical formulae, writers, artists, musicians, philosophers, public services or anything else which links to your curriculum. Alternatively, let the pupils choose their figures and watch a debate between Homer Simpson, Simon Cowell and Gandhi!

Boxing match debates

These debate are designed to get everyone involved and to give extra support to pupils who need it. Choose your topic and divide everyone into the blue corner and the red corner. Choose the pupil to go forward and ‘box’ for each team. They should have a quick-fire exchange and when one of them starts to struggle, ring the bell.

Send them back to their corners where their classmates act as coaches, giving them ideas for the next round or sending out the next contestant.

Hat debates

A hat debate involves relatively simple motions being pulled out of a hat. Often they take place with just one speaker for and one speaker against the topic. Participants in the debate have minimal (or even no) time to prepare, so it’s great practice for thinking on your feet. Good topics could include ‘Footballers earn too much money’, ‘Books are better than TV’ or ‘Girls and boys should play on the same football teams’.

About the author

Debbie Newman is the Director of the Noisy Classroom, an organisation dedicated to supporting speaking and listening across the curriculum. To access free resources, watch videos of debates and book training, visit noisyclassroom.com

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Debate Writing

Debate Speech

A Comprehensive Guide to Preparing and Delivering A Debate Speech

Published on: Mar 9, 2022

Last updated on: Jan 31, 2024

What is a Debate Speech?

A debate speech is a structured argument on a specific topic that is presented in a formal setting.

The main purpose of debate speech is to:

Express your point of view persuasively and effectively
Convince the opposition that you are right.
Change the peopleâs point of view on a particular topic.

In a debate speech, the speaker presents their argument in a clear, concise, and convincing manner. Debate speeches have a set time limit, and the speaker must use their time effectively to make their case and address counterarguments.

Preparing for a Debate Speech

You can only win your debate if you have spent time preparing it well. Follow the steps below to be prepared for your next debate speech.

Understanding the Debate Format

It's essential to understand the format of the debate in which you want to participate. Different debate formats have specific rules and guidelines that you need to follow to succeed.

Some popular types of debates include parliamentary, Lincoln-Douglas, and policy debates.

Parliamentary debate is a format where two teams of two or three members argue for or against a motion. It is presided over by a moderator. In this format, debaters have limited preparation time to gather information and construct their arguments.
Lincoln-Douglas debate is a one-on-one debate where debaters argue for their positions on a specific topic. This format usually involves a value system and a criterion that the debaters must uphold and defend.
Policy debate is a format where two teams of two members argue for or against a specific policy proposal. This format requires in-depth research and analysis of the policy and its potential implications.

Selecting a Position

Choose a topic that you are passionate about and that you feel strongly about. Once you have chosen a topic, narrow it down to a specific aspect that you can argue for or against.

The clearer your position, the easier it will be to research and prepare your arguments.

Need some good debate topic ideas to get started? Check out our list of interesting and engaging debate topics to help you out!

Researching and Gathering Information

Once you have selected your topic, research it thoroughly. Gather as much information as you can from credible sources such as academic journals, news articles, and government reports.

Take detailed notes, and make sure to record the sources you use so that you can reference them later.

Understanding Both Sides of the Argument

To write a persuasive debate speech, it is important to understand both sides of the argument.

Consider the arguments that your opponents might make and anticipate counterarguments. This will help you to strengthen your own arguments and address potential weaknesses in your position.

Organizing Your Arguments

Once you have gathered all of the information you need, organize your arguments in a clear and logical way.

Start by outlining the main points you want to make and then add supporting evidence to each point. Make sure that your arguments flow logically and build on each other.

Practicing Your Delivery

Finally, practice your delivery. Read your speech out loud several times to get a feel for how it flows.

Time yourself to make sure that you can fit all of your arguments into the allotted time. Consider practicing in front of a friend or family member to get feedback on your delivery.

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How to Present a Debate Speech?

This type of speech requires some essential components. Here are the major components you need to present an effective debate speech.

1. Catchy Introduction

The first important step is starting the debate with a compelling introduction. You can begin with a question, a quote, or a statistic related to the topic.

Moreover, your introduction should state your stance on the topic and provides a preview of your arguments.

2. State the Problem & Define Key Terms

Define key terms in your speech that are important to your argument. This helps to ensure that your audience understands the meaning of the words you use.

3. Present Your Arguments

Present your arguments in a clear and logical order. Start with your strongest argument and provide evidence to support it. Then, move on to the weaker arguments and provide evidence for each one.

A good argument often follows the PEE structure, which means âPoint, Evidence, Explanation (PEE)â.

Point or Reason: This is where you state your main idea or argument, providing a concise and clear statement of your position. The point should be specific, focused, and relevant to the topic at hand. It serves as the foundation for your argument
Evidence: Here, you provide supporting evidence to bolster your argument. This can take the form of examples, statistics, or any other relevant information that helps illustrate your point.
Explanation: In this part, you elaborate on how the evidence you provided supports your point. This is where you explain the relationship between your point and the evidence, highlighting its significance

4. Rebuttals

Address counterarguments by acknowledging the opposing viewpoints and refuting them with evidence. This is called a rebuttal.

It shows that you have considered both sides of the argument and strengthens your own position. Addressing counterarguments through rebuttals is a vital aspect of constructing a well-rounded and persuasive argument.

Rebuttals involve presenting evidence that challenges the opposing counter-arguments and weakens their validity. Additionally, it is crucial to explain the flaws or fallacies in the opposing arguments during the process of rebuttal.

5. Conclusion

End your speech with a strong conclusion that summarizes your arguments and restates your stance on the topic. You can also end with a call to action, encouraging your audience to take action based on your argument.

Tips for Presenting a Debate Speech Effectively

The above steps will help you prepare and present an acceptable speech, but you can improve it even more with the tips below.

Use Clear and Concise Language

Speak clearly and use language that is easy to understand. Avoid using jargon or complex words that might confuse your audience.

Emphasize Key Points

Highlight the key points of your argument by using vocal inflection and tone. Emphasize important words or phrases to help your audience remember your key arguments.

Use Body Language and Gestures

Body language and gestures can help to reinforce your arguments and make your speech more engaging. Use hand gestures to emphasize key points, and vary your posture and movement to keep your audience interested.

Maintain Eye Contact

Maintain eye contact with your audience throughout your speech. This will help to establish a connection with them and make them feel more engaged with your argument.

Use Vocal Variety and Tone

Vary your vocal tone and pace to add interest and emphasis to your speech. Use pauses and changes in pace to emphasize important points, and vary your volume to make your arguments more impactful.

Use the Debate Speech Checklist

Here is a checklist that can help you evaluate your debate.

Does your speech cover your opinion about the topic?
Does your speech start with a catchy hook?
Does your speech cover all the main points?
Does your speech provide sufficient counterarguments?
Does your speech contain enough evidence?
Does your speech provide a call to action to the conclusion?

Debate Speech Examples

Here are some examples to help you prepare and present your debate speech better.

Debate Speech Structure

Debate Speech Template

Debate Speech Sample

Writing and delivering a successful debate speech requires careful planning, research, and effective communication skills.

By following the steps and tips provided above, you can persuade your audience effectively and make a lasting impact. Remember to practice, rehearse, and be confident in your abilities.

Still need expert help in writing your speech? Weâve got you covered!

CollegeEssay.org is here to assist you. We are an expert speech writing service with a team of experienced professionals.

Our AI essay writing tools can help you at every step of the speech-writing process, from selecting a topic to gathering evidence.

We provide customized, high-quality writing services at an affordable price. You can also take advantage from our AI essay writer tool to improve your writing skills.

So why wait? Contact our professional essay writing service and impress your audience with an amazing speech!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the 4 types of debate.

The four main types of debate are:

Parliamentary Debate
Lincoln-Douglas Debate
Cross-Examination Debate
Academic Debate

What are the 2 sides of a debate called?

The opposition and proposition are the two sides of a debate.

Caleb S. (Literature, Marketing)

Caleb S. has extensive experience in writing and holds a Masters from Oxford University. He takes great satisfaction in helping students exceed their academic goals. Caleb always puts the needs of his clients first and is dedicated to providing quality service.

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Balloon Debate template

Subject: Pedagogy and professional development

Age range: 3 - 18

Resource type: Worksheet/Activity

Last updated

22 February 2018

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Tim's Free English Lesson Plans

Use them, share them, comment on them, and share my link in return.

Tag: balloon debate

3rd conditional: balloon debate.

Photo credit: en.wikipedia.org

Follow me on twitter @ RobbioDobbio

Before you use these materials, why not check out our new podcast for learners and teachers alike? It’s called 2Ts in a Pod, have a listen here:

This is a conversation lesson plan to practise past (3rd) conditional structures whilst debating the value of specific professions to society. Credit to the university of Kent for the inspiration for the activity. I have changed the wording of the task slightly so that students must imagine a world without the achievements and inventions of some famous names from history.

You will need the handout, I have made 4 versions:

Intermediate teens:

Balloon Debate intermediate teenagers

Intermediate adults:

Balloon Debate Intermediate adults

Advanced teens:

Balloon Debate Adv teenagers

Advanced adults:

Balloon Debate Adv adults

I planned this as an activity to practise uses of advanced 3rd conditional structures such as:

But for + noun phrase, would/could/might have….

But for Thomas Edison, the lightbulb would have been invented much later.

Or inverted past conditionals:

Had it not been for Shakespeare, we wouldn’t have such a rich vocabulary.

You may want to preteach these structures using my other materials which you can find here and here.

Below you will find they advanced adults version of the activity.

Balloon Debate

You are in a hot air balloon which is losing height rapidly and will soon crash because it is overweight. You are travelling with a group of school children who will grow up to be very famous. You have to decide which 7 to throw over the side; if the balloon crashes you will all die. The passengers are:

If Charles Darwin hadn’t discovered evolution, society wouldn’t have developed like it has.

If it hadn’t been for Gandhi, India would still be a British colony.

But for Shakespeare, we wouldn’t have such a rich language.

Had it not been for Abraham Lincoln, the slaves wouldn’t have been freed.

Homework Activity:

Students write an essay examining two of the people from the balloon and deciding which one has contributed most to society. They must compare and contrast the achievements of the two and reach a conclusion as to which should be crowned as the most inspiring person in history.

Great Link for Debate Tasks

I’ve just come across this link from the university of Kent that features some great conversation activities including a balloon debate.

http://www.kent.ac.uk/careers/interviews/balloonDebate.htm#air

Here’s the sinking ship one in a word document to download:

Sinking Ship

Rebuild civilisation conversation lesson

My take on a conversation class classic. There have been many different versions, I did this one in my Spanish class and then translated it into English to use with my students. I am afraid I don’t know the Spanish textbook title so can’t give a credit.

Click here to download the handout:

Rebuild Civilisation

Below or in the handout above you will find the conversation task. Before you start the activity you might want to pre-teach some vocabulary. For example some verbs and nouns:

cultivate – cultivation

procreate – procreation

populate – population

Or for lower levels you can give the students more of a framework. For example:

I think we should / shouldn’t / ought to /ought not to take ………………… because……………….

This handout on language of agreement and disagreement might also be useful:

https://skydrive.live.com/redir?resid=79CFF252BEEA0A7D!247&authkey=!ANBIbEVteXyYHnY

Encourage students to justify all their decisions, don’t let them get away with simply crossing the banker off the list because they’re angry at bankers. Try to play devils advocate too; stand up for the banker, the computer programmer or the economist to encourage the students to think critically and find justifications.

Class instructions:

Give out the handout and explain the situation to the students.
Put the students into groups of 3-4, or if you have less students pairs is fine. Try to have at least two groups, the more groups there are the more opinions there are and the more discussion there will be.
First have the students individually read the list and select a provisional list of 7 people. Tell them not to worry if they have trouble choosing only 7.
Then in their groups they must share their thoughts and try to convince their classmates which people to choose.
Give them plenty of time to do this and make sure they justify everything.
Then have a feedback session; each group reads out their list of 7 and explains their reasons for choosing them.
Then try to come up with a universal list of 7 for the whole class. So each team must defend their choices and try to talk the other teams round to their way of thinking.

There has been a nuclear catastrophe. Everyone on the planet has died except the 20 people listed below. There is a small aeroplane with only 7 spaces. The aeroplane will take the 7 people to a desert island in the Indian ocean where they will rebuild civilisation.

In your groups you have to decide which 7 people will travel on the aeroplane.

A 50-year-old male judge.
A 25-year-old female economist.
The 52-year-old Chief of an African tribe.
The Chief´s pregnant wife.
A 30-year-old male professional ballerina.
A young, male soldier from an island close to the one they are going to.
A 35-year-old female agricultural engineer.
A 35-year-old male priest.
A 28-year-old female opera singer.
A 24-year-old handsome, well-built man.
A 25-year-old hot, buxom blonde woman.
A 26-year-old nun.
A 37-year-old male witch doctor from the African tribe.
A 52-year-old male psychiatrist.
A 14-year-old male child-genius.
A 27-year-old female history teacher.
A 32-year-old male computer programmer.
A 37-year-old male biologist who specialises in the evolution of species.
A 31-year-old female painter.
A 41-year-old male banker.

If you were in this situation what do you think you could offer the new civilisation?

COMMENTS

Balloon Debates: Templates and Tips!
Get the PowerPoints saved into a public area so they can be shown on the whiteboard. B. The first round of the debate - focusing on 'positives'. Four or five students stand at the front. Choose these randomly using the Classtools name picker. The first student's Powerpoint is put onto the screen.
PDF BALLOON DEBATE OVERVIEW OBJECTIVES
1. Ask the speakers to respond to the speech of the person next to them. (This is like "rebuttal" in a full debate.) Speakers should explain why someone else's reasons were not good arguments for why they should stay in the balloon. (E.g. "Speaker X said '…' but I disagree because…") 2. Ask the audience to ask questions.
How to Write a Debate Speech
1. Understand how debates work. You will be given a debate topic - this is called a "resolution." Your team must take a stance either affirmative or negative to the resolution. Sometimes you will be given the stance, and sometimes you will be asked to take a position. You may be asked to stand affirmative or negative.
The Balloon Debate: An Integrated ESL Classic in 6 Easy Steps
At this point, check the important vocabulary (balloon, competition, celebrity, charity, coverage) and establish why the race is taking place. Elicit some examples of charities and how they help people. Ask about conditions on a hot air balloon, and perhaps about the physics of what keeps them in the air. Then, introduce the passengers.
Balloon debate
Debate and Discussion Topics; Oracy across the curriculum; Developing Students' Oracy; Debating across the curriculum; Debate Clubs; Up for Debate; Reading List; ... The concept of a balloon debate is that a hot air balloon is coming down and in order to save any of the passengers, others will need to be thrown overboard. ...
PDF The Debating Cheat Sheet
Manner is how you deliver your speech. It will include anything that enhances you presentation and makes it more engaging: the tone and volume of your voice, how quickly you speak, hand gestures, eye contact, your stance, and how you use your notes (always use palm cards - NEVER an A4 sheet of paper!). Method: How you organise it.
How to Write a Debate Speech
Here is a standard debate speech format for a 20-15 minutes long debate: Opening Statements. Affirming Side: 5 minutes. Opposing Side: 5 minutes. Rebuttals (No New Arguments) Affirming Side: 3 minutes. Opposing Side: 3 minutes. Cross-Examination. Affirming Side to Opposing Side: 3 minutes.
balloon debate
4: Conduct debate. Allow each person to present their case for why they should stay. After, allow arguments about who they should throw out of the balloon and give these people a chance to defend themselves. 5: Finally, hold a vote to decide who to throw out of the balloon. S1: I should stay because I'm a pop star.
The Most Powerful Debate Speech Strategy And Topic Ideas
How To Write A Debate Speech? Introduction: Grabbing Attention. Begin your debate speech with a captivating introduction to immediately capture the audience's interest. Consider using a powerful quote, a relevant anecdote, or a surprising fact related to your topic. The goal is to create an immediate connection with your listeners and set the ...
PDF The Great Balloon Debate
for one hot hair balloon. All of the people in your group managed to climb aboard the hot air balloon but it is dangerously heavy. If two (or three) people are thrown overboard, the balloon will have a better chance to make it to the safety of a distant island. If not, everyone will surely die. Students may want more time to press
How to Write a Winning Debate Speech
1. Choose a Topic For Your Debate. Also called a resolution or a motion, the topic is sometimes chosen to debate. This is usually the case in a school activity to practice debating skills. The resolution or motion is usually centered around a true or false statement or a proposal to change the current situation.
The Balloon Debate (persuasive writing) by sarah church on Prezi
The Hot Air Balloon Debate. You, along with 14 other people, have won a ride in a hot air balloon. You are all really enjoying the experience until your balloon gets caught in a thermal air stream and is blown way off course. The gas for the burner runs out, leaving you all in danger as there is a significant risk that the balloon will crash.
Implementing debates in the primary classroom
Balloon debates. The concept of a balloon debate is that a hot air balloon is coming down, and in order to save any of the passengers others will need to be thrown overboard. Different students represent the people (or objects / concepts / materials) in the balloon and argue in turn to the class or group why they should be saved.
How to Prepare and Present a Debate Speech + Tips & Examples
Use Vocal Variety and Tone. Vary your vocal tone and pace to add interest and emphasis to your speech. Use pauses and changes in pace to emphasize important points, and vary your volume to make your arguments more impactful. Use the Debate Speech Checklist. Here is a checklist that can help you evaluate your debate.
6 Easy Steps to Write a Debate Speech
Step 3: Signposting. Signposting may seem annoying and unnecessary. If you're a word-enthusiast it can even seem like it's disrupting the flow of your otherwise smooth and lyrical speech. However, it's completely and totally necessary in the structure of a good debate. You may think that you've written the best and most easy-to-follow debate in ...
PDF Secondary resource pack
Balloon debate . This debating game is a fun introduction persuasive speaking and voting. Set up: All the speakers are in a balloon basket which is losing height - a speaker will need to be thrown out of the basket in order that the others remain safe! Choose 5 students to act as the speakers. Allocate each of them a character - these could
Balloon debate
A balloon debate is a debate in which a number of speakers attempt to win the approval of an audience. The audience is invited to imagine that the speakers are flying in a hot-air balloon which is sinking and that someone must be thrown out if everyone is not to die. Each speaker has to make the case why they should not be thrown out of the ...
Guide to Writing Speeches for Congressional Debaters
congressional debate speech writinghttps://shespeaksspeechdeb.wixsite.com/websiteTina Tarighian is a senior and congressional debater on the New Jersey circu...
Balloon Debate template
Balloon Debate template. Subject: Pedagogy and professional development. Age range: 3 - 18. Resource type: Worksheet/Activity. File previews. pptx, 91.69 KB. Balloon debates are an active assessment strategy whereby students are asking to think or to discuss which character they would like thrown out of the balloon, and why.
balloon debate
Balloon Debate. You are in a hot air balloon which is losing height rapidly and will soon crash because it is overweight. You are travelling with a group of school children who will grow up to be very famous. You have to decide which 7 to throw over the side; if the balloon crashes you will all die. The passengers are:
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This short video provides seven steps to assist when writing a debate. It is a follow up to the previous video 'How to run a debate'.
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Welcome to Dialogy's Debate Super Team Series! This is our special debate series designed for elementary students.In previous episodes, you learned how to bu...
My writing on colonialism made me a hate figure
Being under so much fire turned out to be a blessing in disguise. When I became a hate figure, I suffered at first. But I came to realise that, since they'd never met me, people didn't ...

Balloon Debates: Templates and Tips!

Lesson 1: Students research a character and prepare their presentations

Lesson 2: Conducting the Balloon Debate

Taking it further

How to Write a Debate Speech

Sample Speeches

Preparing for the Debate Speech

Writing the Debate Speech

Concluding the Debate Speech

Expert Q&A

Reader Videos

Tips from our Readers

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Debate Speech - Ultimate Writing Guide for Students

What Is A Debate Speech?

Key Elements of A Debate Speech

How To Prepare For Debate Speech?

Choosing a Position

Conducting Thorough Research

Structure The Key Points

How to Start a Debate Speech

Structure Your Arguments

Address Counterarguments (Rebuttals)

How to End a Debate Speech

Review And Practice

Debate Speech Examples for Students

Tips for an Effective Debate Speech

Debate Speech Topics

Keep reading

Activity: Balloon Debate

Balloon Debates

Variations:

Example Roles:

Don’t Miss A Thing!

Activity: AI Collaborative Stories

Activity: The International Trade Game

Activity: Broke or Flush

The Most Powerful Debate Speech Strategy And Topic Ideas

11 Greatest Debate Topics Of All Time.

Ways In which Debate Helps Shape Overall Personality.

1. The Existence of a Higher Power: God vs. Atheism

2. Freedom of Speech vs. Hate Speech Laws

3. Legalization of Recreational Drugs: Pros and Cons

4. Climate Change: Human-Made vs. Natural Causes

5. Capital Punishment: Morality and Deterrence

6. Immigration Policies: Open Borders vs. Strict Control

7. Assisted Suicide: Right to Die vs. Sanctity of Life

8. Privacy in the Digital Age: Security vs. Individual Rights

9. Universal Basic Income: Reducing Inequality vs. Economic Sustainability

10. Censorship in the Arts: Protecting Morality vs. Freedom of Expression

11. Animal Testing: Scientific Advancement vs. Animal Rights

How To Write A Debate Speech ?

Thesis Statement: Clearly State Your Position

Main Arguments: Develop Strong Points

Addressing Counter Arguments: Anticipate and Refute

Emphasize Impact: Appeal to Emotions and Values

Use Persuasive Language: Enhance Convincing Power

Maintain Clarity and Organization: Structured Delivery

Engage the Audience: Foster Connection

Conclusion: Reinforce Your Message

Q&A Preparation: Be Ready for Questions

Critical Thinking Skills:

Effective Communication:

Research and Information Retrieval:

Empathy and Understanding:

Conflict Resolution Skills:

Leadership Qualities:

Time Management:

Teamwork and Collaboration:

1. Solid Research And Preparation: The Foundation Of Success

2. Clear And Concise Communication: Precision Matters

3. Active Listening: Addressing Counterarguments Effectively