Choose a topic for the debate. The possible topics are widespread. You can select a topic that is related to a lesson plan, a current event, or a subject that affects your students, such as the legal age for drinking or driving.
Divide your classroom. Either allow students to pick their side of the debate or assign students to argue one side or the other. Alternatively, you can also assign topics to pairs of students and have individuals debate against each other.
Decide on the format for your debate. Some debates have opening statements that are a predetermined length, and each side has a specified length of time for rebuttal. Styles include the Lincoln-Douglas format, which focuses more on persuasiveness and ethics, and the parliamentary debate, which requires no evidence at all.
Have students prepare and research for the debate. Encourage students to write key points on index cards and prepare an opening statement.
Establish rules for the debate and review with your classroom. Some rules should include not interrupting your peers, not whispering during the debate, and no personal attacks. If you are grading the debate, tell your students how they will be graded and that breaking rules will affect the final score.
Moderate the debate to help students remain on topic and follow the rules.