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Public Speaking

Can you finish persuasive debate showdown in about 30 min?

Persuasive Debate Showdown

You will this activity hones critical thinking and public speaking skills by challenging children to articulate their viewpoints confidently.

Duration30 min
Age GroupAges 13–14
DifficultyIntermediate
SubjectPublic Speaking
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Concept

What this lesson teaches

This activity hones critical thinking and public speaking skills by challenging children to articulate their viewpoints confidently. They learn to construct logical arguments and respond to counterarguments, turning abstract ideas into persuasive speech.

Materials

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    Steps

    How the activity runs

      Why It Works

      The learning connection

      Engaging in debates fosters cognitive development through Vygotsky's scaffolding, where children learn from peers and refine their arguments in real-time. The dynamic exchange of ideas promotes deeper understanding of both sides of an issue, enhancing their reasoning abilities.

      Extend the Lesson

      Try it with your learner

      1. Choose a topic such as 'Is technology making us smarter?'. 2. Research both sides of the argument using books or online resources. 3. Prepare 3 strong points for your assigned viewpoint. 4. Partner with a family member to practice and present your arguments. 5. Engage in a 5-minute debate, taking turns to speak. 6. Reflect on what arguments were most convincing and why.

      Public Speaking30 minAges 13–14Grade 8Sign in to save this activity
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