Starter quiz
- Match the key terms from related to debate to the correct definition.
- motion⇔the statement or idea being argued or discussed ✓
- chairperson⇔the person who directs the debate, ensuring all rules are followed ✓
- proposition⇔statements in favour of the motion ✓
- opposition⇔statements against the motion ✓
- audience⇔the group of people watching and listening to the debate ✓
- debate⇔a structured discussion in which opposing views are presented ✓
- Which tasks would you be expected to undertake as chairperson in a debate?
- present your arguments in a debate
- ensure the debate follows the rules ✓
- introduce the speakers and the motion ✓
- ask the audience for their opinions
- ensure the debate keeps to time ✓
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- Is the answer true or false? The audience of a debate can be invited to ask questions.
- 'True' ✓
- What is the house's position on this debate motion? 'This house believes that mobile phones should be banned in schools.' Are they for or against?
- 'For' ✓
- Which of these sentences does not use a discourse marker?
- Finally, we must think about the impact on humanity.
- It is not something that has been considered. ✓
- Next, the issue of bias in the current system.
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- Which of these definitions best describes the word 'logical'?
- using imagination to come up with creative ideas
- acting on feelings without thinking about the consequences
- thinking in a clear and sensible way, based on reason and facts ✓
- making decisions quickly without needing evidence or reasons
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Exit quiz
- Which of the following definitions best describes a rebuttal in a debate?
- presenting your main argument at the beginning of a debate
- asking questions to clarify someone's point
- a response or argument that challenges or disproves another person's claim ✓
- summarising all the key points of your argument.
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- Which of the following would not be considered a flaw in an argument?
- well chosen evidence ✓
- opinion presented as fact
- contradictions
- irrelevant or incorrect information or evidence
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- Which word beginning with 'f' can be described as 'a mistake or weakness in something'?
- 'flaw' ✓
- What is an example of a potential flaw in an argument?
- providing strong evidence to support a claim
- presenting an opinion as a fact without evidence ✓
- making sure your argument stays on topic
- respecting the opposing team's views
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- Why is listening carefully to the opposing team important during a debate?
- to avoid asking questions
- to interrupt their argument
- to copy their points
- to identify flaws and prepare your rebuttal ✓
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- Which of the following best describes the term 'irrelevant' in a debate?
- a point that strongly supports your argument
- a point that everyone agrees on
- a point that does not relate to the main topic ✓
- a point that provides evidence
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Worksheet
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Lesson Details
Key learning points
- A rebuttal means having to track the opposing team’s argument and identifying any flaws.
- You will usually have time to prepare for a debate, this will help in creating effective rebuttals.
- Evidence can look like: statistics, expert testimonials and credible studies.
- In a rebuttal you should aim to explain why and how you are challenging the argument.
Common misconception
You always have to show both sides of the argument in a debate or discussion.
In a debate, it is much more skilfull to present a single line of argument.
Keywords
Rebuttal - a response or argument that challenges or disproves another person's statement or claim
Flaw - a mistake or weakness in something
Critical - in a debate, being critical means thinking deeply about an argument to spot any flaws or weak points
Irrelevant - not related to the topic or situation
Testimonial - a statement in which someone shares their personal experience or opinion to support something
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