Teaching toolkit
Debate
A formal debate with rules: Two sides argue assigned positions on a contentious question. Students practise arguing, rebutting and listening fairly, regardless of their own opinions.
How the method works
- 1
Present the question for debate (“Should …?”) and assign positions by drawing lots.
- 2
In teams, prepare: gather arguments, evidence, and anticipated counterarguments.
- 3
Debate rounds: opening statements, open discussion, closing arguments (with fixed speaking times!).
- 4
The jury or plenary group evaluates according to criteria (subject knowledge, expression, discussion skills).
- 5
De-roling and debrief: What was the opposing side’s strongest argument?
Material
- Position cards
- Sources
- Observation sheet
You can find free, ready-made worksheets for the work phase in the TeachPie Marketplace , sorted by subject and grade, in three levels.
Common pitfalls in practice
- Arguments must be based on verifiable evidence
Variants
- American-style debate: The audience votes before and after. Who changed people’s minds?
- Four Corners debate as a warm-up: take a position in the room and explain your reasoning.
In TeachPie, the planning AI suggests Debate automatically when it fits the phase, timing, and class, including ready-to-use materials.