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Customize Debate Worksheet Templates


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What is a Debate?

Debating is a valuable skill that can help students develop higher-level thinking and argumentation skills. By participating in debates, students can learn to organize their thoughts, research topics, and present their arguments in a clear and convincing manner. However, preparing for a debate can be challenging, especially for young learners. To help students prepare for debates, teachers can use a variety of resources such as graphic organizers, templates, and task cards.

What is a Debate Worksheet?

A debate worksheet is a planning document for a debate. Most debate preparations use evidence cards, flow sheets, and constructive speech templates but teachers have the option to create their own type of debate preparation worksheet.

Debate Graphic Organizers

One way to help students organize their thoughts and arguments is by using debate graphic organizers. These organizers can help students map out their arguments and counter-arguments, as well as identify evidence to support their claims. Some examples of debate graphic organizers include:

  • T-Chart: These types of debate worksheet templates allow students to compare and contrast two opposing viewpoints, with one viewpoint on each side of the chart.
  • Venn Diagram: This organizer helps students identify similarities and differences between two opposing viewpoints.
  • Spider Map: This organizer allows students to brainstorm ideas and arguments related to a particular debate topic.

Debate Templates for Students

Another useful resource for preparing students for debates is debate templates. These templates provide students with a structured format for organizing their arguments and notes. Some examples of debate templates include:

  • Debate Prep Worksheet: This template guides students through the process of researching and preparing for a debate.
  • Debate Notes Template: This template provides students with a space to take notes on their research and arguments.
  • Debate Preparation Worksheet: This template helps students organize their arguments and counter-arguments before the actual debate.
  • Debate Planning Sheet: To help students prepare for the actual debate, teachers can provide them with a debate planning sheet. This sheet includes the debate format, rules, and guidelines, as well as the debate topics and argument assignments. Students can use this sheet to plan their arguments and prepare their speaking notes.

Using these templates in actual debate scenarios is very helpful. During the actual debate, students can use their notes and outlines to present their arguments and respond to their opponents' arguments. By participating in actual debates in the classroom, students can practice their debating skills, higher level thinking capabilities and improve their overall ability to articulate their opinions.

Why Are Debate Sheets Important and How Are They Best Used?

Debates are an important way to share ideas and to critically analyze information. Debates challenge speakers to carefully research both sides of a topic or question, and come up with solid evidence to support their chosen side, while at the same time anticipating problems and providing solutions. Students may find these skills will also help them in persuasive writing and research papers. Debates also encourage public speaking skills and careful listening skills.

There are many resources available online that teachers can use to help students prepare for debates. These resources include different types of debate worksheets, graphic organizers, templates, task cards, and planning sheets. By providing students with these resources, teachers can help students organize their thoughts, research topics, and present their arguments in a clear and convincing manner. Debating is a valuable skill that can help students develop higher-level thinking and argumentation skills, and these resources can help young learners develop these skills.

Planning: A Debate Outline Example

Knowing how to write an outline for a debate may not come naturally but by following these steps, you can create a strong debate outline example template that will help you to deliver a convincing argument. Remember to keep your arguments organized and supported by evidence, anticipate the opposing side's arguments, and use transition words to ensure a smooth flow of ideas.

  1. Choose a Debate Topic: The first step in making a debate outline is to choose a topic. Make sure the topic is debatable and has clear arguments on both sides.
  2. Research the Topic: Conduct thorough research on the topic to understand the different viewpoints and arguments. Gather evidence and data to support your position.
  3. Identify Key Arguments: Identify the key arguments for your side of the debate. These arguments should be supported by evidence and should be able to counter the opposing side's arguments.
  4. Organize the Arguments: Organize the arguments in a logical order. Start with the strongest argument, followed by the next strongest, and so on. Ensure that each argument flows smoothly into the next.
  5. Include Rebuttals: Anticipate the opposing side's arguments and include rebuttals for each of them. Address each point the opposing side is likely to make and refute them with strong evidence.
  6. Add Transitions: Use transition words and phrases to help your speech flow smoothly from one argument to the next. Examples of transition words include "furthermore," "in addition," and "however."
  7. Include an Introduction and Conclusion: Begin your outline with a strong introduction that captures the audience's attention and presents your stance. End with a powerful conclusion that restates your main arguments and leaves a lasting impression on the audience.
  8. Practice: Practice delivering your speech using the outline. Ensure that you stick to the time limit and that your arguments are clear and concise.

How to Make a Debate Worksheet

1

Choose One of the Debate Outline Templates

We have lots of templates to choose from. Take a look at our example for inspiration!

2

Click on "Copy Template"

Once you do this, you will be directed to the storyboard creator.

3

Give Your Worksheet a Name!

Be sure to call it something related to the topic so that you can easily find it in the future.

4

Edit Your Worksheet

This is where you will include directions, specific questions and images, and make any aesthetic changes that you would like. The options are endless!

5

Click "Save and Exit"

When you are finished with your worksheet, click this button in the lower right hand corner to exit your storyboard.

6

Next Steps

From here you can print, download as a PDF, attach it to an assignment and use it digitally, and more!


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Frequently Asked Questions About Debate Worksheets

How can debate worksheets and storyboards be integrated into different subjects?

Debate preparation templates and storyboards can be integrated into many different subjects, such as English, social studies, and science. For example, in an English class, students can debate the literary merits of a particular novel or play. In a social studies class, students can debate different historical events or political issues. In a science class, students can debate the pros and cons of a particular scientific theory or practice. Debate topics can be pulled from any subject and explored within context.

How can teachers assess students' use of debate worksheets and storyboards?

Teachers can assess students' use of debate worksheets and storyboards by evaluating the quality of their arguments, their use of evidence to support their arguments, their ability to communicate their ideas effectively, and their ability to respond to opposing arguments. Additionally, teachers can provide feedback and constructive criticism to help students improve their debating skills over time.

How can debate worksheets and storyboards benefit students?

Debate worksheet templates and storyboards can benefit students in many ways. They help students organize their thoughts, develop logical arguments, and communicate their ideas effectively. They also encourage students to research and gather evidence to support their arguments, which helps them build their critical thinking skills. Finally, using such visual aids can help students feel more confident and prepared when presenting their arguments.

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