Compile a list of questions relating to common debate terms and required knowledge about debate tactics. Divide the list of questions based on difficulty. Easy questions represents a single, relatively difficult a double, difficult questions a triple and very difficult questions as a home run. Divide the class into two teams. When a student steps up to bat, let him choose the difficulty he desires. Correctly answered questions move to the base and incorrect questions receive an out.
Mini-Debates do not require students to prepare beforehand. Instead, select two students to participate in a mini-debate. Give a topic relative to their age group. Allow each student a minute to prepare their stance and two minutes to present their side. For speeches, the same concept applies. Select a student from the class and give a relative speech topic. Allow about one minute to prepare the speech, and give him three to five minutes for delivery.
Choose controversial articles from newspapers and magazines that appeal to your classroom or students. Present the articles to the class and allow them to choose which article interests them. Have the student then write a letter to the editor of the publication persuasively explaining their viewpoint either supporting or disagreeing with the topic. This activity will help polish persuasive skills needed in both speech and debate.
After spending time learning speech techniques, information and vocabulary, test the class on their knowledge. Prepare approximately 60 questions covering the material in previous lessons. Students will go through answering the questions on the board. This activity gives you the opportunity to address weak areas that may appear through incorrect answers and allows the students to review the material while having fun.