Talking · Listening
Saying debate
Two teams argue for and against a saying, such as "health is better than wealth", in a short, kind, structured debate.
- 40 minutes
- Small group, Whole class
- Ages 12+
- Classroom
- Printable: planning sheet
What to do
- Read the three sayings and their meanings. The class votes for the one to debate, and everyone votes on the motion before the debate starts.
- Split into two teams: one argues that the saying is true, the other that it is not always true. People may be on a side they do not agree with.
- Each team has ten minutes to plan three points, each with a real-life example.
- Agree the rules: argue against the idea, never the person. Listen without interrupting.
- Each team gives an opening speech of two minutes. Then each team has one minute to answer a point from the other side.
- Each team gives a one-minute closing speech.
- Vote again. Talk about whether anyone changed their mind, and why.
Questions to talk about
- Which argument was strongest, whichever side it came from?
- Can a saying be wise and still not be true for everyone?
- What was it like arguing for a side you did not agree with?
You will need
- A timer
- The printed debate planner, one per person
Make it fit
Simpler: Debate in pairs, one for and one against, for one minute each.
More of a stretch: Add a third team who must find a middle position and argue for that.
Sayings used
Printables
The instructions card is for the adult running the activity; the worksheet is for the children. Prints on A4 or US Letter at 100% / actual size; colour is optional.
The planning sheet
Saying debate
Name
Tick the saying your class is debating. Circle your side: FOR / AGAINST
- Is fearr an tsláinte ná na táinteHealth is better than wealth.
- Is fearr lán doirn de cheird ná lán mála d'órA handful of skill is better than a bagful of gold.
- Is fearr uaigneas maith ná droch-chuideachtaBetter good solitude than bad company.
The instructions card
How to run it · Talking · Listening
Saying debate
Two teams argue for and against a saying, such as "health is better than wealth", in a short, kind, structured debate.
40 minutesSmall group, Whole classAges 12+
What to do
- Read the three sayings and their meanings. The class votes for the one to debate, and everyone votes on the motion before the debate starts.
- Split into two teams: one argues that the saying is true, the other that it is not always true. People may be on a side they do not agree with.
- Each team has ten minutes to plan three points, each with a real-life example.
- Agree the rules: argue against the idea, never the person. Listen without interrupting.
- Each team gives an opening speech of two minutes. Then each team has one minute to answer a point from the other side.
- Each team gives a one-minute closing speech.
- Vote again. Talk about whether anyone changed their mind, and why.
You will need
- A timer
- The printed debate planner, one per person
Talk about
- Which argument was strongest, whichever side it came from?
- Can a saying be wise and still not be true for everyone?
- What was it like arguing for a side you did not agree with?
Make it fit
Simpler: Debate in pairs, one for and one against, for one minute each.
Stretch: Add a third team who must find a middle position and argue for that.
Goes with the printable planning sheet.