Debate is a formal discussion where two sides argue for and against a topic (the moot). It develops critical thinking, research, listening, and public speaking skills. Learning to debate helps you form and defend opinions in all areas of life.
👥 The Two Sides
✅ Affirmative (For)
Argues IN FAVOUR of the moot
"That this house would..."
- Must provide reasons to support
- Usually speaks first
- Bears the burden of proof
❌ Negative (Against)
Argues AGAINST the moot
Defends the status quo
- Must counter the affirmative's case
- Shows why the change is bad
- Or proposes better alternatives
📝 Structuring Arguments: PEEL
The PEEL Method
- Point — State your argument clearly
- Explanation — Explain what you mean
- Evidence — Provide proof (stats, examples, quotes)
- Link — Connect back to the moot
Example
"School uniforms should be abolished.
Point: Uniforms limit students' self-expression.
Explanation: Young people develop identity partly through clothing choices.
Evidence: Studies show self-expression is linked to wellbeing.
Link: Therefore, removing uniforms supports student development."
🛡️ Rebuttal
Attacking the Other Side
Strong debaters don't just present their case — they destroy the opposition's!
- Listen carefully to what they said
- Identify weaknesses in their argument
- Explain why their evidence is wrong/weak/irrelevant
- Show why your argument is stronger
🎯 Speaking Tips
👁️
Eye contact
Connect with audience
🔊
Speak clearly
Project your voice
⏸️
Use pauses
For emphasis
🧍
Stand confidently
Body language matters
📝
Use palm cards
Not full scripts
⏱️
Watch your time
Stay in limits
✏️ Activities
Activity: Build an Argument
Choose a moot and write ONE argument using PEEL:
Moots: "School should start later" / "Social media should be banned for under-16s" / "Plastic bags should be banned"
My PEEL argument:
Point:
Explanation:
Evidence:
Link:
👩🏫 Teacher Notes
Curriculum Links
- English: Speaking, argument, critical thinking
- Social Studies: Issues, perspectives