Debate for primary schools

The fourth in a series of termly activity kits for members of Think Global’s Schools Network. Available to members each term, each issue of The global dimension in my classroom includes a range of activities, ideas, case studies and more to help you explore global connections. This fourth edition is focused on debate for primary schools (Key Stages 1 and 2, ages 5-11).

Debate is a fantastic medium for pupils to develop a range of skills across the curriculum, as well as a way of exploring big questions in the world around them. There is an increased emphasis on speaking and listening in the new primary curriculum and a debate is a great way of introducing more of these skills into your classroom. Formal debates are also a useful assessment tool at the end of a topic, helping you gain an insight into pupils’ understanding of a topic you have been covering. Informal debates can also be used to introduce new topics, encourage thinking skills and to identify misconceptions.

Debate does not always have to be a combative and competitive activity. By introducing ideas for discussion and reflection young pupils develop the vital speaking and listening skills which are essential all across the curriculum and are so useful later on in their school career.

This activity kit is available free to download as a PDF, see link below. You will need to login to access the download link.