Class Debate: Teacher Instructions
The class is going to take part in a debate.
This is the proposed structure for the debate, including an ideal timescale. However,
depending on the length of a lesson, the teacher should feel free to change and
adapt it where suitable.
The proposed motion is:
“Would you rather put your life at risk for something you believe in, or live in
safety but without a voice?”
However, if you wish, you can change the discussion to focus on another current
event which breaches human rights.
You will need:
•
•
•
•
A Chairman
A Timekeeper
2 people for the Proposition (For)
2 people for the Opposition (Against)
Prepwork:
The prepwork should take up the rest of the lesson. If the class run over, then you
can always set it as homework as well.
•
Divide the class into 4 groups. Each group will assist a speaker with their
argument.
•
Each group for the opposition/proposition should interact with one another. In
each speech, key points should not be repeated.
•
Those who are assisting the speakers should use this time of research to
think about questions that they want to ask within the debate as well. They do
not have to agree with the side they are assisting.
The Debate:
Before the debate starts, allow the groups 10-15 minutes to collaborate and look
through what they’re going to speak about.
•
Each speaker will have 2 minutes to present their argument. Speakers 1 will
go first, and then be followed by Speakers 2.
•
The rest of the class will be the floor. At the end of the first two arguments,
those on the floor will be able to ask questions to either side. This should last
no more than 5 minutes. This is then repeated after the second set of
speakers have spoken as well.
•
Using a set of scales (marked 1-5 if possible), the teacher will award marks
for each point made, for both the speeches and open floor. If the teacher
wants, they can also make notes of the points made for discussion after the
motion has been passed.
•
At the end of the debate the teacher (or chairman) should ask for a raise of
hands. For each hand raised, another mark will be awarded to the side in
question.
Timescale (approximately 30 minutes):

Chairman opens the debate and introduces the first two speakers (1 minute)

Speaker 1 of the Proposition speaks (2 minutes)

Speaker 1 of the Opposition speaks (2 minutes)

The floor is open for questions (5 minutes)

Chairman introduces the second two speakers (1 minute)

Speaker 2 of the Proposition speaks (2 minutes)

Speaker 2 of the Opposition speaks (2 minutes)

The floor is open for questions a second time. The floor will then vote for or
against the motion (5 minutes)

If there is time, the teacher can then proceed to give feedback to the speakers
and points made on the floor (10 minutes)