Lesson Plan: Listening and Speaking - Engage in Formal Debate Using the Five Es
Grade Level
Year 10
Duration
30 minutes
Objectives
By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
- Understand the structure and format of a formal debate.
- Engage in a formal debate by presenting and defending their viewpoints.
- Utilize effective listening skills to comprehend and respond to opposing arguments.
Materials Needed
- Whiteboard and markers
- Debate topic cards (pre-written topics)
- Timer
- Rubric for evaluating debates (optional)
Lesson Outline
1. Engage (5 minutes)
- Activity: Begin with an engaging question to capture students' interest, such as, "Why is debating important in our society?"
- Discussion: Allow students to share their thoughts. Highlight how engaging in debates helps develop critical thinking and public speaking skills.
2. Explore (5 minutes)
- Introduction to Debate Format: Explain the structure of a formal debate, including:
- Opening statements
- Argument presentation
- Rebuttal
- Closing statements
- Team Formation: Divide students into pairs or small groups for the debate. Assign each group a topic related to current issues (e.g., climate change, social media regulation, gun control).
3. Explain (5 minutes)
- Roles in a Debate: Clarify the roles each student will play:
- Affirmative team (supports the topic)
- Negative team (opposes the topic)
- Debate Etiquette: Discuss the importance of respecting others' opinions, using evidence to support arguments, and active listening.
4. Elaborate (10 minutes)
-
Debate Preparation: Give students 5 minutes to prepare their arguments. Provide them with guiding questions to consider:
- What are the main arguments for your position?
- What evidence supports your claims?
- How will you counter the opposing arguments?
-
Conducting the Debate: Allot 5 minutes for each debate (adjust based on class size):
- Opening statements (1 minute each)
- Argument presentation (1 minute each)
- Rebuttal (1 minute each)
- Closing statements (30 seconds each)
5. Evaluate (5 minutes)
-
Class Reflection: After all debates are complete, conduct a class discussion to reflect on the experience. Ask questions such as:
- What was challenging about formally debating an issue?
- How did you feel listening to opposing arguments?
- What could you improve in your debating skills?
-
Peer Feedback: If time allows, let students provide constructive feedback to each other using the established rubric.
Conclusion
- Summarize the key points of the lesson, emphasizing the importance of listening, speaking, and effectively articulating one's thoughts in a formal setting.
- Encourage students to continue practicing their debate skills in future class activities or extracurricular opportunities.
Assessment
- Observe student participation during debates.
- Use the rubric to assess students' argumentation skills, clarity of expression, and listening abilities.
This lesson plan engages students in developing their listening and speaking skills through structured debate, fostering both critical thinking and effective communication.