The 'Debate in dialogue' activity is designed to actively engage students in critical thinking and constructive dialogue. This interactive method encourages students to develop their argumentation skills, listen effectively, and engage respectfully with differing opinions. Through a structured discussion around thought-provoking statements, students learn not only to defend their own viewpoints but also to understand and potentially persuade others. The ultimate goal is to reach a win-win outcome where mutual understanding and collaboration are central.
- Activity goal
- Exchange knowledge | Practice skills
- When
- In class | Post class | Pre class
- Where
- Offline
- Duration
- < 30 minutes| < 60 minutes
- Group size
- Small | Medium
Step-by-step plan
Step 1: Prepare statements
Create statements that naturally divide students into supporters and opponents.
Step 2: Set up the space
Divide the room into two sides using tape or an imaginary line.
Step 3: Form teams
Split the students into two teams: team green (pro) and team red (con).
Step 4: Prepare arguments
Give students time to come up with arguments. This can be done individually first, then in teams, or directly as a team activity.
Step 5: Justify positions
Both teams present their positions: “We support this because…” and “We oppose this because…” to the other group.
Step 6: Speeddate
Students from both teams pair up for a speed date. In rotating pairs, each student has 3 minutes to uncover as many concerns and interests of the other as possible.
Step 7: Team meeting
Teams regroup to discuss the collected arguments and develop strategies to persuade the opposing team.
Step 8: Appoint speakers
The teacher assigns a spokesperson for each team. Each speaker can request a time-out to consult with their team.
Step 9: Debate phase
One student starts with an argument to persuade or inspire the other side. The opposing team responds by acknowledging, accepting, or rebutting the point. Active listening and recognizing emotions are essential here.
Step 10: Cross the line
If someone is convinced by the other team, they cross the line and join that side.
Step 11: Win-win outcome
The goal is to create a win-win situation through mutual understanding.
Variation 1
- You can also give students the debate statements and assign teams at the end of a class (steps 1 and 3). They then collect and develop arguments between class (step 4). Steps 5 through 11 take place during the next class.
