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Sat / act prep online guides and tips, 55 great debate topics for any project.

General Education

A debate is a formal discussion about a topic where two sides present opposing viewpoints. Debates follow a specific structure: each side is given time to speak either for or against the topic at hand.

Many students study debate in high school to improve their speaking skills. As a debater, you learn how to clearly structure and present an argument. The skills you develop as a debater will help you on everything from a college admissions interview to a job presentation.

Selecting debate topics is one of the most important parts of debating. In this article, we’ll explain how to select a good debate topic and give suggestions for debate topics you can use.

How to Select Good Debate Topics

A good debate topic is one that lets the participants and the audience learn about both sides of an issue. Consider the following factors when selecting a debate topic:

Interest: Are you interested in the topic? Would the topic be interesting to your fellow classmates, as well as to the audience listening to the debate? Selecting a topic that you’re interested in makes the preparation part of the debate more exciting , as well as the debate more lively.

Argument Potential: You want to choose a debate topic that has solid argument potential. If one side is clearly right, or if there isn’t a lot of available information, you’ll have a hard time crafting a solid debate.

Availability of Data: Data points make an argument more robust. You’ll want to select a topic with lots of empirical data that you can pull from to bolster your argument.

Now that we know how to select a debate topic, let’s look at a list of good debate topics.

Debate Topics Master List

If you’re searching for your next debate topic, here are some suggestions.

Social and Political Issues Debate Topics

• All people should have the right to own guns.
• The death penalty should be abolished.
• Human cloning should be legalized.
• All drugs should be legalized.
• Animal testing should be banned.
• Juveniles should be tried and treated as adults.
• Climate change is the greatest threat facing humanity today.
• Violent video games should be banned.
• The minimum wage should be $15 per hour.
• All people should have Universal Basic Income.
• Sex work should be legal.
• Countries should be isolationist.
• Abortion should be banned.
• Every citizen should be mandated to perform national public service.
• Bottled water should be banned.
• Plastic bags should be banned.

Education Debate Topics

• Homework should be banned.
• Public prayer should not be allowed in schools.
• Schools should block sites like YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram on their computers.
• School uniforms should be required.
• Standardized testing should be abolished.
• All students should have an after-school job or internship.
• School should be in session year-round.
• All high school athletes should be drug tested.
• Detention should be abolished.
• All student loan debt should be eliminated.
• Homeschooling is better than traditional schooling.
• All schools should have armed security guards.
• Religion should be taught in schools.
• All schools should be private schools.
• All students should go to boarding schools.
• Sexual education should be mandatory in schools.
• Public college should be tuition free.
• All teachers should get tenure.
• All school districts should offer school vouchers.

Health Debate Topics

• Healthcare should be universal.
• Cosmetic procedures should be covered by health insurance.
• All people should be vegetarians.
• Euthanasia should be banned.
• The drinking age should be 18.
• Vaping should be banned.
• Smoking should be banned in all public places.
• People should be legally required to get vaccines.
• Obesity should be labeled a disease.
• Sexual orientation is determined at birth.
• The sale of human organs should be legalized.
• Birth control should be for sale over the counter.

Technology Debate Topics

• Social media has improved human communication.
• The development of artificial intelligence will help humanity.
• Individuals should own their own DNA.
• Humans should invest in technology to explore and colonize other planets.
• Governments should invest in alternative energy sources.
• Net neutrality should be restored.
• Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies should be encouraged or banned.
• Alternative energy can effectively replace fossil fuels.
• Cell phone radiation is dangerous and should be limited.

How to Prepare for a Debate

Once you’ve selected your debate topic, the next step is to prepare for your debate. Follow these steps as you get ready to take the podium.

Read Your Evidence

The most important step to building your debate confidence is to familiarize yourself with the evidence available. You’ll want to select reputable sources and use empirical data effectively.

The more well read on your topic you are, the better you’ll be able to defend your position and anticipate the other side’s arguments.

Anticipate the Other Side’s Arguments

As part of your debate, you’ll need to rebut the other side’s arguments. It’s important to prepare ahead of time to guess what they’ll be talking about. You’ll bolster your own side’s argument if you’re able to effectively dismantle what the other side is saying.

Plan to Fill Your Speech Time

Each speaker at a debate is limited to a certain amount of time. You should plan to use every second of the time that you’re allotted. Make sure you practice your talking points so that you know you’re within the time frame. If you’re short, add in more evidence.

Practice to Build Confidence

It can be scary to take the stage for a debate! Practicing ahead of time will help you build confidence. Remember to speak slowly and clearly. Even if your argument is great, it won’t matter if no one can understand it.

Final Thoughts

Debate is a great way to hone your public speaking skills and get practice crafting and defending an argument. Use these debate topics if you're searching for a focus for your next debate.

What's Next?

Looking for ways to keep the debate going in non-academic life? Then you'll love our list of 101 "this or that" questions to argue over with your friends.

Thinking about how you can use your argumentative skills in a future career? Read up on the five steps to becoming a lawyer to see if that's a path you want to pursue.

Getting ready to take an AP test? Here’s a list of practice tests for every AP exam, including the AP literature exam .

It can be hard to schedule time to study for an AP test on top of your extracurriculars and normal classwork. Check out this article on when you need to start studying for your AP tests to make sure you’re staying on track.

Hayley Milliman is a former teacher turned writer who blogs about education, history, and technology. When she was a teacher, Hayley's students regularly scored in the 99th percentile thanks to her passion for making topics digestible and accessible. In addition to her work for PrepScholar, Hayley is the author of Museum Hack's Guide to History's Fiercest Females.

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30 Controversial But Good Debate Topics For High School Students

Are you searching for thought-provoking and engaging debate topics for your students? Look no further! In this article, we have compiled a list of 159 very good debate topics that will challenge and stimulate discussions in your classroom. Whether you’re a teacher, student, or parent, these topics will surely pique your interest and inspire critical thinking.

Debate Topics For Students

In this section, we will explore a variety of controversial debate topics that are perfect for students to discuss and analyze. These topics range from issues within schools such as cell phone usage and dress codes, to larger societal issues like social media’s impact and the death penalty.

Each sub-section will provide thought-provoking debate questions and keywords to help guide the discussion. So whether you’re looking for an ESL activity or a stimulating classroom debate, these topics are sure to engage and challenge your students.

1. Should Cell Phones Be Allowed In Schools?

• Research the Policy: Investigate the cell phone policy in both public and private schools to understand the current regulations.
• Evaluate the Pros and Cons: Consider the impact of cell phone usage on student learning, safety, and social interactions.
• Collect Data: Gather statistics and studies about cell phone usage in schools to support your arguments.
• Consider Alternative Perspectives: Explore the viewpoints of parents, teachers, and students through debate questions on platforms like Kialo Edu .

Pro-tip: Use this topic as an engaging ESL activity by encouraging students to debate the issue using their English language skills and critical thinking abilities.

2. Is Social Media More Harmful Than Beneficial?

Social media’s impact on mental health is a topic of concern, particularly among younger individuals. The debate on whether social media is more harmful than beneficial raises significant points.

Users, including white people and individuals of other races , are affected by cyberbullying and negative self-comparison. On the other hand, it provides connectivity and a platform for activism. Balancing these aspects is crucial.

3. Should Schools Implement Dress Codes?

• Public schools: Assess the existing dress code, gather feedback, and involve students in the decision-making process.
• Private schools: Research the rationale behind dress codes, evaluate the impact on students, and consider alternative approaches.

When debating this topic, students can explore the impact of dress codes on self-expression, examine cultural and gender implications, and discuss the balance between individual freedom and school discipline.

For ESL activities, encourage students to articulate their viewpoints, use debate questions from educational platforms like Kialo Edu, and foster critical thinking skills.

4. Is Homework Necessary?

For the debate topic ‘Is Homework Necessary?’ considering teens’ daily leisure time is crucial. College Vine suggests that homework should be meaningful, original, and not just busy work. Public libraries are excellent resources for teens to conduct research and gather evidence to support their arguments on this topic. Understanding how homework affects teens’ lives is essential, as it sparks interest and impacts their academic performance.

5. Should The Voting Age Be Lowered To 16?

In Scotland, the voting age for Scottish Parliament and local council elections was lowered to 16 in 2015. It allowed 16 and 17-year-olds to vote in the Scottish independence referendum, marking a historic democratic expansion. Should other countries model after this?

• Research the current voting age laws in your country.
• Understand the impact of lowering the voting age on government structure and policies.
• Consider the maturity and responsibility levels of 16-year-olds in making informed decisions concerning national matters.
• Analyze the potential implications of the voting age on other age-restricted activities, such as same-sex marriage and drug legalization.
• Review case studies from countries where the voting age has been lowered to 16.

6. Is Climate Change A Hoax?

Climate change is not a hoax, evidenced by scientific consensus and observable phenomena. In the United States, government structures have implemented policies to mitigate its impact. This topic sparks intense debate, reflecting the relevance of environmental issues. Just as same-sex marriage, drug legalization, and other controversial topics, the urgency of climate change demands attention.

The relevance of the topic is crucial, influencing its significance in modern discourse.

7. Should The Death Penalty Be Abolished?

• Research the history and impact of the death penalty on society.
• Evaluate the ethical and moral implications of capital punishment.
• Analyze the effectiveness of the death penalty as a deterrent for crime.
• Consider the financial and social implications, such as the cost of legal proceedings and the impact on families.
• Examine the societal impact, including potential biases in sentencing and the concept of rehabilitation.
• Explore the concept of a livable wage and its implications for society.

8. Is Gun Control Necessary?

Yes, gun control is essential for public safety and crime prevention. It’s a hotly debated issue in the United States due to its government structure and constitutional rights. Finding a balanced approach is crucial, similar to the deliberation on same-sex marriage or the legalization of drugs.

One true story that aligns with this discourse is the advocacy for stricter gun regulations following tragic mass shootings, reflecting the ongoing debate on this pivotal topic.

9. Should College Education Be Free?

Whether college education should be free is an engaging debate topic for students. Considering College Vine data, 79% of teens love to know they can access higher education without financial constraints. It’s a pertinent topic, given that students spend their daily leisure time at public libraries , and original sources indicate the rising cost of tuition. To encourage critical thinking, students can research and organize arguments, preparing for an insightful discussion.

10. Is Online Learning As Effective As Traditional Classroom Learning? (Keywords

The effectiveness of online learning compared to traditional classroom learning has been a topic of debate. Both methods have their own advantages, with online learning offering flexibility, accessibility, and a wide range of resources.

Traditional classroom learning , however, allows for face-to-face interaction and immediate feedback. The effectiveness of each method may vary depending on individual learning styles, subjects, and teaching approaches.

11. Universal Basic Income (UBI)

The debate over Universal Basic Income (UBI) centers on whether providing a fixed income to all citizens, regardless of employment status, is an effective strategy to alleviate poverty and reduce income inequality. Proponents argue that UBI can offer financial security and address economic disparities, while opponents express concerns about feasibility, economic sustainability, and potential disincentives to work.

12. Climate Change Policies

This debate delves into the adequacy of current global initiatives to combat climate change. Advocates argue for more ambitious policies, emphasizing the urgent need to address environmental issues, while skeptics may question the feasibility, economic impact, and effectiveness of proposed measures.

13. Is the trade-off between convenience and online privacy justified in the digital age?

The debate on online privacy revolves around the balance between the convenience of digital services and the protection of individuals’ privacy.

Supporters of a more permissive approach argue that convenience is essential for technological advancements, while privacy advocates stress the importance of safeguarding personal data in an era of increasing digital connectivity.

14. School Uniforms need to be enforced for students benefits

Supporters argue that uniforms promote equality and reduce distractions, while opponents emphasize the importance of students’ freedom to express themselves through clothing.

15. Censorship in the Arts

Should there be limits on artistic expression, and to what extent should art and media be censored Advocates for censorship may emphasize societal values and protecting audiences, while opponents argue for artistic freedom and the importance of diverse perspectives in creative works.

16. Social Media Regulation

Should governments regulate social media platforms to prevent the spread of misinformation and protect user privacy? Supporters of regulation highlight the need to curb the spread of misinformation and protect user privacy, while opponents may express concerns about potential infringements on free speech and innovation.

17. Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs)

Are genetically modified foods safe for consumption, and should they be more widely embraced to address global food security? The discussion on GMOs focuses on the safety of genetically modified foods and their role in addressing global food security. Advocates argue that GMOs offer solutions to food scarcity and agricultural challenges, while critics raise concerns about potential health risks, environmental impact, and ethical considerations.

18. Mandatory Voting

Proponents argue that mandatory voting ensures broader representation and a more engaged electorate, while opponents may express concerns about individual freedoms and the potential for uninformed voting.

19. Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Should there be ethical guidelines and regulations for the development and use of artificial intelligence The discussion on artificial intelligence delves into the ethical implications of AI development and use.

Advocates for regulation stress the need to address potential risks, biases, and accountability issues, while proponents of a less restrictive approach may emphasize the benefits of technological advancement and innovation.

20. Affirmative Action

Is affirmative action in college admissions a fair and effective way to address historical inequalities?

Affirmative action is a contentious policy that seeks to redress historical disadvantages faced by certain groups. The debate centers on whether this approach is justifiable and successful in promoting diversity in educational institutions or if alternative methods should be considered to address inequality.

21. Space Exploration Funding

Should governments invest more in space exploration, or should those funds be allocated to address pressing issues on Earth?

The allocation of resources for space exploration is a perennial debate. Advocates argue that space exploration drives scientific innovation, while opponents question the prioritization of these endeavors over more immediate and pressing concerns on Earth. This debate delves into the balance between advancing human knowledge and addressing critical issues on our planet.

22. Euthanasia and Assisted Suicide

Should individuals have the right to choose euthanasia or assisted suicide when facing terminal illnesses?The ethical dilemma surrounding euthanasia and assisted suicide revolves around individual autonomy, the sanctity of life, and medical ethics.

This debate explores the extent to which individuals should have the right to make end-of-life decisions, considering the implications for personal autonomy, medical ethics, and societal values.

23. Animal Testing

Using animals in scientific research raises ethical concerns regarding animal welfare and the necessity of such practices. Advocates argue that animal testing is crucial for medical advancements, while opponents advocate for developing and implementing alternative methods.

This debate delves into the balance between scientific progress and the ethical treatment of animals. Is animal testing justified for scientific and medical research, or should alternative methods be prioritized?

24. What level of gun control is appropriate to balance public safety with individual rights?

Gun control debates revolve around finding a balance between individual rights to bear arms and the need to ensure public safety. Advocates for stricter gun control measures argue that they are necessary to reduce gun violence, while opponents emphasize the importance of protecting individual liberties. This debate explores the nuanced relationship between personal freedoms and societal safety.

25. How should the education system be reformed to better prepare students for the challenges of the 21st century?

The ongoing debate on education reform centers on the need to adapt traditional educational models to meet the demands of the 21st century. Discussions often revolve around curriculum changes, the integration of technology, and the fostering of critical thinking skills. This debate explores how educational systems can evolve to prepare students for an ever-changing world.

26. Should countries have more open or restrictive immigration policies, and how should they address the refugee crisis?

Immigration policies are a global issue, with debates surrounding national security, economic impact, and humanitarian considerations. Advocates for more open policies emphasize cultural diversity and economic benefits, while those favoring restrictions focus on cesources and national identity. This debate delves into the complex balance between humanitarian efforts and national interests.

27. To what extent does the use of social media contribute to or alleviate mental health issues among young people?

The pervasive use of social media among young people has sparked discussions about its impact on mental health. Advocates argue that social media provides a platform for connection and support, while critics highlight its potential adverse effects, such as cyberbullying and unrealistic body image standards. This debate explores the nuanced relationship between social media use and mental well-being.

28. Is nuclear energy a viable and safe alternative to fossil fuels, or should we focus more on renewable energy sources?

The debate on nuclear energy centers on its potential as a clean energy source and concerns about safety and environmental impact.

Advocates argue that atomic energy can significantly reduce carbon emissions, while opponents express reservations about the potential for accidents and the long-term effects of nuclear waste. This debate explores the trade-offs between addressing climate change and ensuring energy production safety.

29. Should the start times of high schools be adjusted to better align with students’ sleep patterns and well-being 

The debate on school start times revolves around the impact of early start times on students’ sleep patterns and overall well-being. Advocates for later start times argue that they contribute to improved academic performance and mental health, while opponents question the logistical challenges and potential disruptions to family schedules. This debate explores the intersection of education and student health.

30. Privacy vs. Security – What should be our focus?

Balancing individual privacy rights with national security measures in the age of technology. Advocates tend to argue that privacy is a fundamental human right that should be protected against unwarranted intrusion.

Proponents emphasize the necessity of robust security measures to safeguard citizens from various threats, including terrorism and cyberattacks.

Where can I find varied viewpoints on controversial issues?

Websites like 5 Star Essays and The Top Tens offer lists of debate topics with varied viewpoints. You can also look for articles and resources from reputable sources to gather different perspectives on an issue.

Can students participate in group discussions on controversial issues?

Yes, group discussions can be a great way for students to explore controversial issues and hear different perspectives. You can facilitate a respectful and productive discussion by setting ground rules and actively listening to others’ viewpoints.

Key Takeaways:

• Debate allows students to explore varied viewpoints and engage in ongoing discussions, providing a valuable learning experience for both public and private school students.
• Debate helps students develop critical thinking skills, gain new perspectives, and engage in important discussions on social topics such as drug tests and government assistance.
• Preparation is key for a successful debate – from choosing a topic and conducting research to organizing arguments and practicing delivery. Debate topics range from controversial issues to everyday concerns like cell phones in schools and homework.

That’s it for our guide on broad, controversial debate topics that are good for students. You can delve into each topic in more detail and of course adjust each debate topic for relevance and appropriateness depending on the maturity and age of your students.

Editorial Staff

125 Good Debate Topics for High and Middle Schoolers in 2024

April 2, 2024

What’s the most common phobia in the US? Snakes? Planes? Insects? Public speaking? Ding, ding, ding! If you chose the latter, you’re right on the money. According to an article from The Washington Post , 28% of responders fear public speaking above all else . While public speaking may be scary, it is a necessary and useful skill that benefits students in high school and beyond. Accordingly, one way for high school students to develop their public speaking skills is through the age-old activity of public forum debate, tackling hot-button debate topics from the use of ChatGPT on schoolwork to whether TikTok should be banned. (Fun fact: the art of debating dates back to the lessons of Socrates ! How’s that for time-tested?)

Debate provides the perfect opportunity for all students to practice essential life skills such as conducting research, structuring logical and persuasive arguments, and learning how to grapple with complex current issues. Additionally, debate can help build confidence, foster collaboration with peers, and enable students to become well-informed members of society. And who knows? A successful high school career on the debate team might just inspire a future career in public policy , international relations , or law .

What is the best topic for a debate?

Great question! The ideal debate topic should have relevance to students’ lives , be complex enough to sustain a lively discussion , and have a wealth of supporting “pro” and “con” evidence and data for students to draw upon to support their claims.

Before you choose a topic, you might want to do some preliminary research to see what is available. Remember, you can get creative! For example, if your topic is “Students should be allowed to wear pajamas to class,” you may have a hard time finding studies on that exact subject. Howevever, by researching similar topics, such as “ effect of clothing on productivity ” or “ effect of clothing on mental state,” you’d find a wealth of information to start building your argument.

Now that we’ve covered the essentials, let’s get into some great debate topics for high schoolers (and some debate topics for middle schoolers, as well!).

Education Debate Topics for High School

• Colleges should eliminate the use of standardized tests like the ACT and SAT for determining admissions.
• Schools should allow students to use ChatGPT when writing essays and completing assignments.
• All public schools should adopt a universal pass/fail grading system.
• School districts should allow their libraries to ban certain books.
• All students should have free access to higher education.
• Students should be allowed to wear pajamas to class.
• Students would benefit from a shorter school day.
• Schools should eliminate physical education requirements.
• All students should take a financial literacy course prior to graduating.
• Schools should permit teachers to carry firearms for self-defense.
• Teachers should prohibit the use of cell phones during school hours.
• High school classes should start later in the morning.
• Health classes should be eliminated and left up to parents.
• Schools should teach basic survival skills.
• Schools should downsize humanities and arts departments in favor of STEM departments.
• The Pledge of Allegiance is a form of propaganda.
• Period products should be available for free in school bathrooms.

Government Debate Topics for High School

• The government should lower the voting age to 16.
• The US should adopt a universal healthcare system.
• Censorship is sometimes justified in a democratic society.
• Hate speech should be protected under freedom of speech laws.
• The government should provide reparations for slavery and systemic racism.
• The US should implement a carbon tax to help combat climate change.
• The United States should take steps to disarm its nuclear arsenal.
• The US should abolish the electoral college and move to a popular vote system.
• The government should allow prisoners to vote.
• We should revise our penal system to focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment.
• Everyone should be required to serve in the military.
• Every state should have a sanctuary city.
• Prisoners should only be allowed to stay on death row for one year.
• We should abolish public access to the sex offender registry.
• Parenting education should be mandatory.
• The government should abolish religion-based federal holidays.
• State and federal investigators should not be allowed to use DNA from genealogy databases.
• Stay-at-home parents should receive compensation from the government.
• Undocumented immigrants should have a clear path to amnesty.

Science and Technology Debate Topics for High School

• It is the responsibility of social media companies to regulate hate speech on their platforms.
• The government should ban the use of facial recognition technology in public spaces.
• The government should hold social media companies responsible for overseeing the spread of misinformation on their platforms.
• The government should regulate the use of social media to protect user privacy.
• All social media companies should disclose what user data they’re collecting, and how it’s being used.
• Social media is hindering our ability to form meaningful connections with others.
• There should be an age restriction on using social media sites.
• The government should create guidelines for AI regulation to prevent widespread job loss in the workplace.
• The government should have the power to regulate the content of online platforms such as TikTok and YouTube.
• Sites like Twitter and Reddit should do away with anonymous posting.
• We should require social media influencers to disclose sponsored content.
• Artists who use AI to create their pieces should be banned from art contests and competitions.
• Car companies are responsible for self-driving car accidents.
• Electric cars are not sustainable.
• Parents shouldn’t be allowed to post photographs of their children online without their consent.
• You should be allowed to record anyone at any time, with or without their knowledge.

Health and Bioethics Debate Topics for High School

• The use of performance-enhancing drugs in sports is never ethical.
• The use of GMOs should be banned from all agriculture.
• The cloning of humans is ethical.
• The government should legalize all drugs, and tax them as it does cigarettes and alcohol.
• Pharmacies should sell birth control over the counter.
• We should ban animal testing for medical research.
• Authorities should prohibit doctors from prescribing placebos to patients.
• The US should legalize physician-assisted suicide.
• We should require genetic testing for all newborns.
• Patients should have the right to refuse medical treatments.
• The government should regulate the use of pesticides and other chemicals in agriculture.
• The government should mandate vaccines.
• The US should invest more in renewable energy resources to combat climate change.          
• Mail-order abortion pills should be available in every state.
• All restaurants should be required to print calorie counts on their menus.
• IVF embryos should be considered children.
• Embalming bodies should be banned.
• We should resurrect extinct species.                                                                                

Business Debate Topics for High School

• The government should increase the minimum wage.
• Universal basic income is necessary for a fair society.
• The government should ban unpaid internships.
• The government should regulate cryptocurrencies as they do other monies.
• The government should provide incentives for companies to hire more women and minorities.
• Companies should be required to disclose their gender pay gap.
• The U.S. should adopt a flat tax system.
• Companies’ boards should meet a set diversity quota.
• All companies that are able should transition to a work-from-home model.
• The government should provide financial incentives for companies to go green.
• We should require companies to provide at least three months of paid parental leave to their employees, regardless of gender.
• The government should force companies to disclose their carbon footprint.
• Everyone should tip 20% at food service establishments.
• Those who choose not to have children should be awarded an equivalent amount of paid leave.
• Millionaires should be required to donate a certain amount of money per year to charitable organizations.
• Commercial fishing should be banned.
• Fashion companies should not be allowed to manufacture clothing overseas.

Pop Culture Debate Topics for High School

• Reality TV portrays a distorted version of reality.
• Binge-watching TV shows is harmful to our mental health.
• Video games should have restrictions on the content they portray.
• Cosplay is a form of cultural appropriation.
• It is unethical for actors to play characters of different races and ethnicities.
• Award shows like the Oscars should have a diversity quota they must meet.
• Cancel culture is doing more harm than good.
• Celebrities should be held to a higher standard of behavior than the general population.
• Rap music is a positive influence on society.
• The paparazzi is harmful to celebrities’ well-being.
• Graphic novels are not literature.
• Genre fiction is less valuable than literary fiction.

Fun Debate Topics

• It is better to be well-versed in multiple topics than a specialist in one.
• Emojis should be allowed in formal correspondence.
• It is better to have the power of teleportation than that of invisibility.
• Exclamation points have become overused in text and email.
• Fast food restaurants should have a mandatory vegan option.
• Natural talent is more important for success than hard work.
• Cereal is technically a kind of soup.
• Pineapples belong on pizza.
• Marvel is a better superhero franchise than DC.
• Toilet paper should be rolled over, rather than under.
• Retired fashion trends should not return.
• Hot dogs are sandwiches.

Debate Topics for Middle School

• USDA regulators should ban junk food from school cafeterias.
• School should take place year-round.
• Schools should permit students to select classes based on their individual interests, rather than require all students to take the same classes.
• Schools should require students to complete a set number of volunteer hours in order to graduate.
• Single-gender schools are better than co-ed ones.
• The US should raise the driving age to 18.
• Children should earn a fixed amount for doing chores.
• Students should grade their teachers, too.
• Video games are a useful learning tool.
• Schools should not have a dress code.
• Teachers should not be allowed to give homework.
• Pageants and beauty contests are harmful.
• Pets should not be allowed at restaurants.
• Recess should be required at all middle schools.

I’ve got my topic, now what?

Once you’ve selected your debate topic, it’s time to prepare. Preparation for a debate involves some key steps, all of which are necessary to ensuring your argument is as sound and convincing as possible.

Putting Together a Successful Debate Argument, Step by Step

1) conduct your research ..

Read widely and smartly. As you go, take organized notes, marking down the sources of each—these will be pivotal later, when you’re building your argument and require points of reference. Research the counterarguments you find as well.

2) Organize your thoughts in a coherent manner .

Look over the data you’ve collected and decide your stance. Firstly, you should be able to articulate your position in a single, simple sentence. Then, create an argument that progresses logically. What do you feel are the strongest arguments for your position? You might consider placing your strongest or most thought-provoking argument last so that it is freshest in your listener’s mind.

Additionally, to help your listeners follow along, use signposts to indicate the direction of your claim. (Think of this as building your thesis. “In this argument, I will cover points A, B, and C.”)

3) Write out what you want to say .

Outline the main points of your stance. Under each section, bullet point key pieces of evidence that support your claim. Once you have that, see if you can summarize the bullet point using a single word or phrase. This way, when you’re in the heat of the moment, you can glance down and use that phrase to spark your memory.

4) Anticipate what your opponents might say .

This is essential to crafting a foolproof argument. Firstly, try to look at the debate from the opposing team’s side. Then, ask yourself: If you were arguing from their side, what points would you make? What is the rational counterargument to your claim, and how can you refute it? Where possible, you want to preclude any chance your opponent might have of catching you off-guard.

5) Practice !

Run through what you want to say, and run through it again. Get out the recorder and listen to a recording of yourself. Does your argument make sense? Practice for speed, clarity, and flow. In addition, memorization will help you get rid of any jitters you might have in the moment.

Good Debate Topics—Final Thoughts

In conclusion, debate is an excellent way for high schoolers to hone their communication skills. Moreover, by implementing the strategies outlined here, students will be better prepared to tackle debates with confidence, assured that they’ve put in the work to convey their ideas effectively and with success.

• High School Success

Lauren Green

With a Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing from Columbia University and an MFA in Fiction from the Michener Center for Writers at the University of Texas at Austin, Lauren has been a professional writer for over a decade. She is the author of the chapbook  A Great Dark House  (Poetry Society of America, 2023) and a forthcoming novel (Viking/Penguin).

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The New York Times

The learning network | our 100 most popular student questions for debate and persuasive writing.

Our 100 Most Popular Student Questions for Debate and Persuasive Writing

Updated, March 2, 2017 | We have two related question lists, “401 Prompts for Argumentative Writing” and “650 Prompts for Narrative and Personal Writing.”

In anticipation of our third annual Student Editorial Contest (to be announced on Feb. 25), we’ve done the math, and below you’ll find the 100 most-commented-upon questions we’ve ever asked that call for persuasive writing.

Many of them are, of course, on topics teenagers care about — technology, video games, sports and gender issues. Others are classic debate issues like government regulation and gun violence.

But, perhaps unsurprisingly, the broad topic that seems to engage students the most? School — from questions about homework to cheating, bad report cards, bullying and gym class.

So skim the list and pick issues that interest you. Each question is linked to a related Times article, which you can access free, and includes additional subquestions to help you flesh out your ideas.

Our 100 Most Popular Student Questions for Debate and Argumentative Writing

• Are the Web Filters at Your School Too Restrictive?
• Does Technology Make Us More Alone?
• How Should Parents Handle a Bad Report Card?
• Should Middle School Students Be Drug Tested?
• Is Cheating Getting Worse?
• Do Violent Video Games Make People More Violent in Real Life?
• Do We Give Children Too Many Trophies?
• Should Students Be Able to Grade Their Teachers?
• Should Schools Put Tracking Devices in Students’ ID Cards?
• If Football Is So Dangerous to Players, Should We Be Watching It?
• Should Video Games Be Considered a Sport?
• Do Teachers Assign Too Much Homework?
• Does Technology Get in the Way of Learning?
• What Is More Important: Our Privacy or National Security?
• California Notice
• Should Stores Sell Violent Video Games to Minors?
• Is a Healthier School Lunch Program a Lost Cause?
• How Young Is Too Young for an iPhone?
• Is Cheerleading a Sport?
• Should the School Day Start Later?
• Should Racial Epithets Be Removed From ‘Huck Finn’?

• Should Schools Offer Cash Bonuses for Good Test Scores?
• Can Money Buy You Happiness?
• Should Women Be Allowed to Fight on the Front Lines Alongside Men? And, Should They Be Required to Register for the Draft?
• Is There Too Much Pressure on Girls to Have ‘Perfect’ Bodies?
• Should the Private Lives of Famous People Be Off Limits?
• Is School Teaching You the Skills You’ll Need to Succeed in Life?
• What Current Musicians Will Stand the Test of Time?
• What Words or Phrases Are Overused and Should Go Away?
• Can Cellphones Be Educational Tools?
• Is School Designed More for Girls Than Boys?
• Do Kids Need Recess?
• What Time Should Black Friday Sales Start?
• Do Photoshopped Images Promote Unrealistic Expectations of Beauty and Body Image?
• What Should Be Done to Stop Cyberbullying?
• When Should You Feel Guilty for Killing Zombies?
• How Should We Prevent Future Mass Shootings?
• Is It Unethical for Zoos to Kill Healthy Animals Under Their Care?
• Is a Longer School Calendar a Good Idea?
• Which Is More Important: Talent or Hard Work?
• Should Couples Live Together Before Marriage?

• Is Home-Schooling Better Than a Traditional Education?
• Is Prom Worth It?
• Do Students Learn Best When They Direct Their Own Education?
• Should Reading and Math Be Taught in Gym Class Too?
• Should Schools Be Allowed to Use Corporal Punishment?
• How Young Is Too Young to Date? (Or, Is Dating a Thing of the Past? )
• Do You Trust Your Government?
• Are Children of Illegal Immigrants Entitled to a Public Education?
• Should the Government Limit the Size of Sugary Drinks?
• Has Facebook Lost Its Edge?
• Should Tablet Computers Become the Primary Way Students Learn in Class?
• How Necessary Is a College Education?
• How Well Do You Think Standardized Tests Measure Your Abilities?
• Are Some Youth Sports Too Intense?
• Should Texting While Driving Be Illegal in Every State?
• Can Graffiti Ever Be Considered Art?
• Whose Fault Is It if a Child Is Failing in School?
• Should the Dropout Age Be Raised?
• Should a College Education Be Free?
• Should People Be Allowed to Obscure Their Identities Online?

• Does Class Size Matter?
• Should Marijuana Be Legal?
• Should You Feel Guilty About Killing Spiders, Ants or Other Bugs?
• Does Classroom Technology Enhance What and How Students Learn? Or, Does It Get in the Way of Learning?
• Should Parents Let Their Children Play Football?
• When Is the Use of Military Force Justified?
• Do Parents Have Different Hopes and Standards for Their Sons Than for Their Daughters?
• Do Leaders Have Moral Obligations?
• Should All Police Officers Wear Body Cameras?
• Does Separating Boys and Girls Help Students Perform Better in School?
• Is It Ethical to Eat Meat?
• Is Smoking Still a Problem Among Teenagers?
• Do Laws That Ban Offensive Words Make the World a Better Place?
• Is TV Too White? And, What About Movies?
• Is It O.K. to Refuse to Serve Same-Sex Couples Based on Religious Beliefs?
• Should Parents Limit How Much Time Children Spend on Tech Devices?
• Would You Feel Safer With Armed Guards Patrolling Your School?
• Should You Go to Jail for Kicking a Cat?
• Should Home-Schoolers Be Allowed to Play Public School Sports?
• Is It Offensive for Sports Teams to Use Native American Names and Mascots?

• Should Students Be Barred From Taking Cellphones to School?
• How Important Is Arts Education?
• Should the United States Stop Using the Death Penalty?
• Is It O.K. for Men and Boys to Comment on Women and Girls on the Street?
• Should Students Be Allowed to Skip Senior Year of High School?
• Would You Trade Your Paper Books for Digital Versions?
• Have Curse Words Become So Common They Have Lost Their Shock Value?
• Should College Football Players Get Paid?
• Are High School Students Being Worked Too Hard?
• When Do You Become an Adult?
• Does Reality TV Promote Dangerous Stereotypes? Or, Does It Ever Actually Do Some Good?
• Should Colleges Find a Better Way to Admit Students?
• How Should Parents Address Internet Pornography?
• Can You Be Good Without God?
• Do Our Neighborhoods Define Who We Are?
• Does Life Exist — or Has It Ever Existed — Somewhere Besides Earth?
• Should Computer Games Be Used for Classroom Instruction?
• Should Companies Collect Information About Us?
• Should You Care About the Health and Safety of Those Making Your Clothing?
• Should We Rethink How Long Students Spend in High School?

As a bonus, here are several more popular questions that we published since last year’s editorial contest that didn’t make the list:

• Does Facebook Need a ‘Dislike’ Button?
• Are School Dress Codes a Good Idea?
• Should Voting Be Mandatory?
• Should the Drinking Age Be Lowered?
• Should Farm Animals Have More Legal Protections?
• Does Punctuation in Text Messages Matter?
• Should High Schools Drop Football Because Too Many Players Are Getting Injured?
• Should Circuses Be Animal-Free?

Not enough? We’ve also previously published a list of 301 prompts for argumentative writing , organized by topic.

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• Grades 6-12
• School Leaders

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125 High School Debate Topics To Challenge Every Student

Learn how to argue with logic instead of emotion.

Some teachers shy away from debate in the classroom, afraid it will become too adversarial. But learning to discuss and defend various points of view is an important life skill. Debates teach students to research their topic, make informed choices, and argue effectively using facts instead of emotion. You’ll find plenty of engaging high school debate topics in this list for inspiration. Each topic includes a link to an article from a reliable source that provides pros and/or cons to help kids make their arguments.

School and Education Debate Topics

Life and ethics debate topics, entertainment and technology debate topics, fun and funny debate topics.

• It’s better to be good at academics than to be good at sports.
• Final exams should be abolished.
• Students should be required to wear school uniforms.
• Private schools are better than public schools.
• Year-round school is better for students.
• Standardized tests are effective.
• Every student should have to participate in athletics.
• All students should be required to volunteer in their community.
• Junk food should be banned in school cafeterias.
• Single-gender schools are better for students.
• Schools should be allowed to teach critical race theory.
• Math is the most important school subject.
• Schools should teach sex ed instead of abstinence only.
• Letter grades should be abolished.
• Teachers should be replaced by computers.
• People who get better grades in school will be more successful in life.
• Sometimes it’s OK to cheat on homework or a test.
• Students who fail a test should be given the chance to take it again.
• Outdoor recess is important at every grade level.
• Students should be allowed to grade teachers.
• Everyone should be able to bring their pets to school.
• Shorter school days are better for students.
• Schools should eliminate dress codes.
• Everyone should be required to go to college.
• College should be free for everyone who wants to attend.
• Schools should install safe rooms in case of mass shootings or natural disasters.
• Schools should be allowed to ban some books from their libraries.
• Book smarts are better than street smarts.
• Schools should provide free mental health services to students and teachers.
• Schools should teach life skills like cooking and personal finance.
• School vouchers benefit students and schools.
• Religion has no place in schools.
• In-person school is better than online school.
• Traditional school is better than homeschooling.
• Charter schools should receive public school funds.

• Girls face more peer pressure than boys.
• The voting age should be lowered to 16.
• Humans should not eat animals.
• Democracy is the best form of government.
• All Americans should be required to vote.
• Cigarette smoking and vaping should be banned entirely.
• Giving is better than receiving.
• Parents should be punished for their children’s mistakes.
• Animals should not be kept in zoos.
• Happiness is more important than success.
• The driving age should be raised to 18.
• The drinking age should be lowered to 18.
• Plastic bottles should be banned.
• People should have to take a parenting class before having a child.
• If you find money on the ground, it’s automatically yours to keep.
• It is better to be kind than to be truthful.
• Learning about history can stop us from repeating past mistakes.
• It’s important to spend money exploring space.
• White-collar jobs are better than blue-collar jobs.
• The death penalty should be abolished.
• Drug addicts should receive help instead of punishment.
• Euthanasia should be legal.
• GMOs are more helpful than harmful.
• Human cloning should be legal.
• A progressive income tax is better than a flat tax.
• Supreme Court judges should be appointed for fixed terms.
• Vaccines should be mandatory.
• We should ban fossil fuels.
• Marijuana should be legal everywhere.
• All drugs should be legalized, regulated, and taxed, like alcohol.
• Nuclear weapons should be banned worldwide.
• Police funding should be redirected to social services.
• Religion does more harm than good.
• Testing on animals should be illegal.
• We will never achieve world peace.
• The United States should implement a universal basic income.
• We should require people of all genders to register for the draft.
• Healthcare should be universal.
• Gun safety laws infringe on the Second Amendment.
• Anyone over 12 should be tried as an adult in court.

• Reality television depicts real life.
• Schools should allow students to use phones in class.
• Macs are better than PCs.
• Androids are better than iPhones.
• Social media is making us less social.
• Social media does more harm than good.
• Video games are better than board games.
• Video gaming is a sport.
• Reading books is better than watching TV.
• We should replace all paper documents with electronic versions.
• The book is always better than the movie.
• Parents should use their kids’ cell phones to track them.
• Playing video games makes you smarter.
• Scientists should try to develop a way for everyone to live forever.
• Paper books are better than e-books.
• Schools should have surveillance cameras in classrooms and hallways.
• All museums and zoos should be free to everyone.
• There is intelligent life on other planets.
• People rely too much on technology.
• Everyone should play on the same sports teams, regardless of gender.
• Net neutrality should be mandatory for internet service providers.
• Expanded use of artificial intelligence will be good for humanity.
• Technology is creating more jobs than it eliminates.
• The United States should provide free internet access for everyone.
• Cryptocurrencies should replace cash.

• Dogs are better pets than cats.
• A taco is a sandwich.
• Summer is better than winter.
• Coke is better than Pepsi.
• Pepperoni is the best pizza topping.
• Fruit counts as dessert.
• The number 13 is not unlucky.
• People should eat to live, not live to eat.
• Monday is the worst day of the week.
• Clowns are more scary than funny.
• Modern music is better than classical music.
• Aliens live among us here on Earth.
• It’s OK to put ketchup on a hot dog.
• Was Robin Hood a thief or a rebel hero?
• It would be better to be able to fly than to be able to turn invisible.
• Pluto should still be considered a planet.
• It’s better to be too hot than too cold.
• We should allow people to go barefoot anywhere if they want to.
• Fiction is better than non-fiction.
• Using profanity is good for your mental health.
• Leftover pizza is better cold than reheated.
• It’s OK to wear socks with sandals.
• Being famous is actually not all that great.
• GIF should be pronounced “JIFF” not “GIFF.”
• People shouldn’t have to go to school or work on their birthdays.

Did we miss one of your favorite high school debate topics? Then come share on the We Are Teachers HELPLINE group on Facebook !

Plus, how to use fishbowl discussions to engage every student ..

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75 Funny Debate Topics To Make Students Laugh (and Think!)

Thought-provoking humor. Continue Reading

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70+ Engaging Education Debate Topics

By Med Kharbach, PhD | Last Update: January 16, 2024

Debates have been a cornerstone of intellectual and rhetorical development since ancient times. As educators, we have a unique opportunity and responsibility to nurture a culture of debate in our classrooms.

Besides sharpen students’ speaking and rhetorica l skills, debates also enhance their research abilities and expand their knowledge base. In this era where education discussions and educational debates are increasingly important, the art of debating becomes an essential skill for our students.

Our focus today is on a variety of education debate topics especially suited for high school and college students. These topics are designed to spark deep, meaningful discussions and challenge students to articulate their viewpoints while respecting others’ perspectives.

From the latest in internet and technology debates to thought-provoking education and learning debates, and from culturally significant social debates to the pressing political debates of our time, this post covers it all.

The purpose of this post is to share with you this collection of debate topics that you can use as prompts to deep and meaningful discussions with your students (especially ideal for high school or college students). 

[Related: 70 of the most controversial topics of our time ]

For practical reasons, I organized these debate topics into 3 broad categories: Internet and Technology debate topics,  Education and Learning debate topics, Social and Cultural debate topics, and Political debate topics.

Education Debate Topics for Students

Here is a list of debate topics for students to consider for your own instructional purposes:

Internet and Technology Debate Topics 

This category explores a range of contemporary issues that students encounter daily. From the impact of social media to the ethical considerations of artificial intelligence, these debate topics encourage students to critically analyze the technological world they are growing up in. They provide a platform for discussing how digital advancements are reshaping society, education, and personal interactions.

1. Should mobile phones be banned in schools?

2. Should parents limit kids’ screen time?

3. To what extent can parents control their kids’ mobile devices?

4. Should schools ban/allow access to social media websites ?

5. Should teens be allowed to play violent video games, why or why not?

6. Which do you prefer: to socialize online or hang out with friends in real life?

7. Are social media websites making people asocial?

8. Spending more time online makes people dumb/smart.

9. The Internet is eliminating more jobs than it provides.

10. Using the Internet for help with homework is cheating.

11. Technology is revolutionizing our life. Yes or no and why.

12. Kids should be allowed to interact with digital technology from an early age.

13. Artificial intelligence technology encourages cheating.

14. Robots will soon take all human jobs.

15. Self-driving cars should be banned.

16. Laws still have not caught up with cyber-crimes.

Education and Learning Debate Topics 

This category delves into various aspects of the educational system, questioning its current state and future direction. Topics range from the value of academic degrees to the effectiveness of different teaching methods. These debates challenge students to think about the role of education in shaping individuals and consider how it can be adapted to meet the needs of the 21st century.

17. What is the real value of academic education?

18. Are academic degrees worth the pain and hassle?

19. Should higher education be totally free? Why or why not?

20. Online academic and scholarly literature should be/shouldn’t be free. Why?

21. Post-pandemic classrooms are different from the pre-pandemic ones. Do you agree?

22. 21st century teaching/education/schools/classrooms are different. Do you agree?

23. What skills should every 21st century teacher master?

24. What do you think of school segregation?

25. School staff and teachers should be allowed to carry guns.

26. Which do you prefer studying at home, in class, or in a hybrid (flipped) setting? Why?

27. What do you think about online teaching?

28. Should homework be abolished?

29. Athletics is the least important subject in school.

30. Smart students occupy the front rows in class.

31. Should Teachers have a uniform dress code?

32. Sex education should/shouldn’t be taught in schools.

33. Recess periods should be longer.

34. Standardized tests should be banned.

35. Students should be allowed to eat in class.

36. STEM subjects are more important than other school subjects.

37. Schools should/should not be given the freedom to ban books from their libraries.

38. Which do you prefer, reading a book or watching its movie version? Why?

39. Is reading non-fiction a waste of time?

Social and Cultural Debate Topics

This category includes topics that touch upon important societal themes like racial equality, gender roles, and ethical dilemmas. These debates encourage students to reflect on their values and the societal norms that shape our world. They offer a space for discussing how cultural and social dynamics influence individual and collective behavior. 

40. What do you think of defunding the police?

41. Social, racial and linguistic profiling increases crime rate.

42. Should the government control people’s choices of whether to have an abortion or not?

43. Should same sex marriage be legalized?

44. Does bad parenting contribute to teens’ delinquency?

45. Should people be allowed to wear religious symbols in public?

46. Are you with or against euthanasia and assisted suicide?

47. Are you with or against government policing of social media websites?

48. Does social media contribute to the rise of hate crimes and crimes against minorities?

49. Are you with or against social media websites collecting users personal data and selling it to advertising companies?

50. Eating meat unethical?

51. Money does not necessarily bring happiness.

52. Animals should be liberated from zoos.

53. Marijuana should/should not be legalized.

54. Women are paid less than men.

55. Dogs are the best pets.

56. What do you think of interracial marriage?

57. Drinking and smoking should/shouldn’t be banned.

58. What do you think of teen pregnancy?

59. Are you pro or against abortion and why?

60. Should people be free to choose the gender they want to identify with?

61. What’s the role of religion in our life?

62. Why are there different religions?

 Political Debate Topics 

This category addresses a wide array of political topics, from the debate over democracy’s efficacy to the role of governments in regulating personal freedoms. These topics encourage students to dissect political ideologies, policies, and their implications for society. Engaging in these debates helps students understand the complexity of political systems and the importance of informed civic participation.

63. Should democracies continue doing business with dictatorships and autocratic regimes?

64. When it comes to relations with foreign countries, which comes first:national interests or human rights and ethical considerations?

65. ‘Our’ political values are universal values that every nation should embrace. Discuss?

66. Democracy is the only viable political system.

67. The Constitution should/should not include references to religion.

68. Rich countries should/should not encourage immigration.

69. Monarchies are a waste of money and resources and should be abolished.

70. Voting should be compulsory for all citizens.

71. Nationalism and patriotism are harmful to global peace.

72. Politics should not infiltrate into sports.

73. Powerful countries should be allowed to bully their neighboring countries.

74. World peace is currently at stake. Why?

75. Countries should not interfere with the electoral systems of other countries.

76. Lobbying for foreign countries should be abolished.

77. Female politicians are better than their male counterparts.

Final thoughts

By engaging in education debates on topics ranging from internet and technology to education, social issues, and politics, students not only develop their argumentative skills but also learn to approach issues with an open mind and a critical perspective. Remember, the topics we discussed are not just for classroom debates but are also educational debate topics that can lead to broader discussions and understanding.

As educators, our goal is to foster environments where students feel confident to express their opinions, back their arguments with evidence, and respect differing viewpoints. This kind of engagement is crucial for developing informed, empathetic, and active citizens.

Whether you’re initiating education debates or delving into debates in education, these topics are a starting point for a journey of intellectual growth and societal contribution. Let’s encourage our students to dive into these discussions, explore these education debate topics, and develop a deeper understanding of the world around them.

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Meet Med Kharbach, PhD

Dr. Med Kharbach is an influential voice in the global educational technology landscape, with an extensive background in educational studies and a decade-long experience as a K-12 teacher. Holding a Ph.D. from Mount Saint Vincent University in Halifax, Canada, he brings a unique perspective to the educational world by integrating his profound academic knowledge with his hands-on teaching experience. Dr. Kharbach's academic pursuits encompass curriculum studies, discourse analysis, language learning/teaching, language and identity, emerging literacies, educational technology, and research methodologies. His work has been presented at numerous national and international conferences and published in various esteemed academic journals.

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30 Debate Topics To Engage Every Student

Introduction

Teaching students how to have meaningful discussions is a skill that all educators want to master. One great way to get students to talk and think critically in the classroom is to introduce debatable topics .

Table of Content

• 1. Introduction
• 2. The Power of Debatable Topics
• 3. Funny Debate Topics
• 4. Fun Debate Topics
• 5. Engaging Debate Topics
• 6. Debatable Questions for Critical Thinking
• 7. The best debate question
• 8. How to Choose the Best Debate Topic
• 9. Conclusion

The Power of Debatable Topics

B efore we get into the list of debate topics, let's discuss the significance of debatable questions in the educational field. Why are debatable questions so important in education? Debates help students think critically, communicate effectively, and see different sides of complex issues. They give students a chance to share their own ideas, support them with evidence, and learn to persuade others. And most importantly, debates make learning fun and memorable, instilling a love of knowledge.

Whether you're a teacher looking for new ideas or a student looking for inspiration for your next debate competition, here's a list of 50 fun, funny, and thought-provoking debate topics that will engage all learners

Funny Debate Topics

1) Should pizza be considered a breakfast food?

2) Is it better to have a pet Dinosaur or a pet dragon?

3) Who would win in a dance-off: zombies or mummies?

4) Do aliens exist, and have they ever tried pizza?

5) Is it okay to wear pajamas to school?

Fun Debate Topics

1) Should schools have a "no homework" policy?

2)Is it better to read the book or watch the movie adaptation?

3) Cats vs. dogs: Which make better pets?

4) Is time travel possible, and would you use it?

5) Should video games be considered a sport?

Engaging Debate Topics

1) Should cell phones be allowed in classrooms?

2) Is climate change primarily caused by human activity?

3) Should the voting age be lowered to 16?

4) Is social media more harmful than beneficial?

5) Should genetically modified organisms (GMOs) be banned?

6) Is space exploration worth the cost?

7) Is it ethical to use animals for scientific research?

8) Should the school year be extended?

9) Is a vegetarian or vegan diet healthier?

10) Should the death penalty be abolished?

Debatable Questions for Critical Thinking

1) Is censorship in art and media justifiable?

2) Should college athletes be paid?

3) Is the use of drones in warfare ethical?

4) Should the government regulate the internet more?

5) Is it ethical to clone humans?

6) Should schools teach financial literacy?

7) Is the use of nuclear energy safe?

8) Is it ethical to use AI in healthcare decision-making?

9) Should there be a universal basic income?

10) Is graffiti art or vandalism?

The best debate question

Is Atheneum Global the best institute to get your online Teacher Training Courses ?

Is this even a debate? Yes, obviously Atheneum Global is the best!

we deliver the most affordable and quality Teacher Training courses!

Jokes Apart Let's Continue!!

How to Choose the Best Debate Topic

Choosing the right debate topic is essential for a lively and productive discussion. Here are a few tips:

Relevance : Pick topics that are important to your students and that they can relate to. This will help them stay engaged.

Balance : Include a mix of serious and lighthearted topics in your debates. This will appeal to a wider range of students with different interests.

Controversy : Choose topics that have multiple sides and that are genuinely debatable. Avoid topics with clear, one-sided answers.

Complexity : Select topics that encourage students to think critically and analyze the issue in depth. Avoid overly simplistic topics.

Current Events : Incorporate current events or contemporary issues into your debate topics . This will keep the discussions relevant and up-to-date.

Debating is a great way for students to learn. It helps them to think critically, to see different sides of an issue, and to communicate their ideas effectively. Whether you're a teacher or a student, here are 30 debate topics that are sure to spark interesting conversations.

Some of the topics are funny, some are fun, and some are more serious. But all of them are thought-provoking and engaging. So pick a topic, gather your arguments, and get ready to debate!

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Over 700 debates and counting.

Explore and learn with our extensive Debatabase covering a wide range of arguments and topics.

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What is Debatabase

Debatabase is an authoritative collection of over seven hundred debates mostly written by experienced debaters. They cover topics from the affirmative action to Zimbabwe, on all sorts of themes including politics, economics, religion, culture, science and society.

You can help the debatabase by:

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• Getting involved in discussions on the forum
• Becoming a curator for a debate

For Educators these resources provide a valuable guidance on how to lead young people through a debate. For debaters they may provide useful preparation materials and examples but the debates will be useful to everyone. Debatabase topics provide both sides of the debate rather than giving just one side of the argument as most blogs, newspapers and other articles you can find online do. We want you to make up your own mind on these important issues and believe you need both sides of the argument to make an informed choice.

The debates are however never complete, there are always more arguments to be made, improvements to existing arguments and challenges to be made. IDEA wants your help to help make both sides of the debates as strong as possible. We are also looking for volunteers to write more debates to make the Debatabase more complete.

Want to join? Contact us!

Try out tools for debate education

Resourcebase

Learningbase

Tools available were developed through "Innovate debate: Applied curriculum for debate-based youth work" project, funded under the Erasmus+ program of the Europan Union.

The European Commission's support for the production of this publication does not constitute an endorsement of the contents, which reflect the views only of the authors, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.

High School Debate Topics

Illustration: Hugo Lin. ThoughtCo. 

• Teaching Resources
• An Introduction to Teaching
• Tips & Strategies
• Policies & Discipline
• Community Involvement
• School Administration
• Technology in the Classroom
• Teaching Adult Learners
• Issues In Education
• Becoming A Teacher
• Assessments & Tests
• Elementary Education
• Secondary Education
• Special Education
• Homeschooling
• M.Ed., Curriculum and Instruction, University of Florida
• B.A., History, University of Florida

Debates tend to instantly engage students, but they can also sharpen their research and public speaking skills. No matter your reasons for using them, having debates in your classroom is a sure way to get your students thinking and talking.

You may require your students to research topics before debating them or even prepare speeches to state their point of view. Learning how to productively debate will improve your students' communication skills as they practice speaking and listening. These skills will serve them in college and the diverse career world beyond. 

Debate Topics

The following 50 debate topics  can be used in high school or advanced middle school classrooms. They are organized by genre and some can be modified for use in different subjects. Each item is listed in the form of a question to propose to your students that has at least two points of view.

Watch Now: Ideas for Great Classroom Debate Topics

Science and technology.

• Should human cloning be banned?
• Should renewable forms of energy be subsidized by the government?
• Should the U.S. government fund a space mission to Mars?
• Should social media comments be protected by free speech?
• Should parents be allowed to choose their baby's gender?
• Should animal testing be banned?
• Should the U.S. government provide internet service to every citizen?
• Are video games too violent for children?
• Should the manufacturing of nuclear weapons be permitted?

Laws and Politics

• Is it ever appropriate for the government to restrict freedom of speech?
• Is democracy the best form of government?
• Should citizens who do not vote be fined?
• Is the right to bear arms a necessary constitutional amendment today?
• Should the legal voting/driving/drinking age be lowered or raised?
• Should a border fence be constructed between the U.S. and Mexico?
• Should America give foreign aid to other countries?
• Should drone attacks against specific targets be used for modern warfare?
• Should affirmative action be abolished?
• Should the  death penalty  be abolished?
• Should microaggressions be punishable by law?
• Should the cruel treatment of animals be illegal?

Social Justice

• Should partial-birth abortion be illegal?
• Should all parents be required to attend parenting classes before having a child?
• Should parents be required to vaccinate their children?
• Should mixed martial arts be banned?
• Should celebrities be required to be positive role models?
• Should people be fined for not recycling?
• Are progressive tax rates just?
• Should performance-enhancing drugs be allowed in sports?
• Should marijuana use be considered a crime?
• Should every student be required to take a performing arts course?
• Should homework be banned?
• Should school uniforms be required?
• Is year-round education is a good idea?
• Should physical education be required of all high school students?
• Should all students be required to perform community service?
• Should schools block YouTube?
• Should students be able to leave school grounds for lunch?
• Are single-sex schools better for student learning and mental health?
• Should schools punish cyberbullying that occurs outside of school?
• Should teachers not be allowed to contact students through social media?
• Should public prayer be allowed in schools?
• Should high-stakes state testing be abolished?
• Should poetry units be removed from the curriculum?
• Is History (or another subject) actually an important subject in school?
• Should schools be allowed to track students by academic level?
• Should students be required to pass algebra to graduate?
• Should students be graded on their handwriting?
• Should all students be required to co-op?
• Should the theory of creation be taught in schools?
• Middle School Debate Topics
• 100 Persuasive Essay Topics
• 50 Argumentative Essay Topics
• 100 Persuasive Speech Topics for Students
• Classroom Rules for High School Students
• Why US Public Schools Don't Have a Prayer
• 4 Fast Debate Formats for the Secondary Classroom
• 40 Writing Topics for Argumentative and Persuasive Essays
• 25 Essay Topics for American Government Classes
• 5 Ways to Prepare Your Middle Schooler for High School
• Course Requirements for Homeschooling High School
• Are Cell Phones Allowed in Schools?
• 30 Writing Topics: Persuasion
• The Laws Governing Homeschooling
• The Best Interactive Debate Websites for Students and Teachers
• Violence in the Media Needs To Be Regulated

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Student Opinion

Should We Get Rid of Homework?

Some educators are pushing to get rid of homework. Would that be a good thing?

By Jeremy Engle and Michael Gonchar

Do you like doing homework? Do you think it has benefited you educationally?

Has homework ever helped you practice a difficult skill — in math, for example — until you mastered it? Has it helped you learn new concepts in history or science? Has it helped to teach you life skills, such as independence and responsibility? Or, have you had a more negative experience with homework? Does it stress you out, numb your brain from busywork or actually make you fall behind in your classes?

Should we get rid of homework?

In “ The Movement to End Homework Is Wrong, ” published in July, the Times Opinion writer Jay Caspian Kang argues that homework may be imperfect, but it still serves an important purpose in school. The essay begins:

Do students really need to do their homework? As a parent and a former teacher, I have been pondering this question for quite a long time. The teacher side of me can acknowledge that there were assignments I gave out to my students that probably had little to no academic value. But I also imagine that some of my students never would have done their basic reading if they hadn’t been trained to complete expected assignments, which would have made the task of teaching an English class nearly impossible. As a parent, I would rather my daughter not get stuck doing the sort of pointless homework I would occasionally assign, but I also think there’s a lot of value in saying, “Hey, a lot of work you’re going to end up doing in your life is pointless, so why not just get used to it?” I certainly am not the only person wondering about the value of homework. Recently, the sociologist Jessica McCrory Calarco and the mathematics education scholars Ilana Horn and Grace Chen published a paper, “ You Need to Be More Responsible: The Myth of Meritocracy and Teachers’ Accounts of Homework Inequalities .” They argued that while there’s some evidence that homework might help students learn, it also exacerbates inequalities and reinforces what they call the “meritocratic” narrative that says kids who do well in school do so because of “individual competence, effort and responsibility.” The authors believe this meritocratic narrative is a myth and that homework — math homework in particular — further entrenches the myth in the minds of teachers and their students. Calarco, Horn and Chen write, “Research has highlighted inequalities in students’ homework production and linked those inequalities to differences in students’ home lives and in the support students’ families can provide.”

Mr. Kang argues:

But there’s a defense of homework that doesn’t really have much to do with class mobility, equality or any sense of reinforcing the notion of meritocracy. It’s one that became quite clear to me when I was a teacher: Kids need to learn how to practice things. Homework, in many cases, is the only ritualized thing they have to do every day. Even if we could perfectly equalize opportunity in school and empower all students not to be encumbered by the weight of their socioeconomic status or ethnicity, I’m not sure what good it would do if the kids didn’t know how to do something relentlessly, over and over again, until they perfected it. Most teachers know that type of progress is very difficult to achieve inside the classroom, regardless of a student’s background, which is why, I imagine, Calarco, Horn and Chen found that most teachers weren’t thinking in a structural inequalities frame. Holistic ideas of education, in which learning is emphasized and students can explore concepts and ideas, are largely for the types of kids who don’t need to worry about class mobility. A defense of rote practice through homework might seem revanchist at this moment, but if we truly believe that schools should teach children lessons that fall outside the meritocracy, I can’t think of one that matters more than the simple satisfaction of mastering something that you were once bad at. That takes homework and the acknowledgment that sometimes a student can get a question wrong and, with proper instruction, eventually get it right.

Students, read the entire article, then tell us:

Should we get rid of homework? Why, or why not?

Is homework an outdated, ineffective or counterproductive tool for learning? Do you agree with the authors of the paper that homework is harmful and worsens inequalities that exist between students’ home circumstances?

Or do you agree with Mr. Kang that homework still has real educational value?

When you get home after school, how much homework will you do? Do you think the amount is appropriate, too much or too little? Is homework, including the projects and writing assignments you do at home, an important part of your learning experience? Or, in your opinion, is it not a good use of time? Explain.

In these letters to the editor , one reader makes a distinction between elementary school and high school:

Homework’s value is unclear for younger students. But by high school and college, homework is absolutely essential for any student who wishes to excel. There simply isn’t time to digest Dostoyevsky if you only ever read him in class.

What do you think? How much does grade level matter when discussing the value of homework?

Is there a way to make homework more effective?

If you were a teacher, would you assign homework? What kind of assignments would you give and why?

Want more writing prompts? You can find all of our questions in our Student Opinion column . Teachers, check out this guide to learn how you can incorporate them into your classroom.

Students 13 and older in the United States and Britain, and 16 and older elsewhere, are invited to comment. All comments are moderated by the Learning Network staff, but please keep in mind that once your comment is accepted, it will be made public.

Jeremy Engle joined The Learning Network as a staff editor in 2018 after spending more than 20 years as a classroom humanities and documentary-making teacher, professional developer and curriculum designer working with students and teachers across the country. More about Jeremy Engle

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Resource 13: Debate Skill Drills and Warm-Ups

Resource 13, debate skill drills and warm-ups.

In full-fledged formats, debate can be overwhelming if you have not yet built up your spontaneous speaking and argumentation skills. Drills and warm-ups can help you keep sharp and focus on specific debate-related skills. While many of these warm-ups are designed to be done in groups or pairs, it is possible to practice on your own with slight variations. For adults trying to improve their debate skills for the workplace, these activities work best if you can find someone to help you at home (otherwise, use the variation for individuals).

In classrooms or debate practices, these activities are designed to be short 10-12 minute exercises before going into a more involved debate or discussion. If time is limited, it is also possible to not do a debate at all and just do one or two of these exercises with more repetitions, followed by a debrief discussion about what everyone felt like they improved.

Are You Down With or Done With Homework?

• Posted January 17, 2012
• By Lory Hough

The debate over how much schoolwork students should be doing at home has flared again, with one side saying it's too much, the other side saying in our competitive world, it's just not enough.

It was a move that doesn't happen very often in American public schools: The principal got rid of homework.

This past September, Stephanie Brant, principal of Gaithersburg Elementary School in Gaithersburg, Md., decided that instead of teachers sending kids home with math worksheets and spelling flash cards, students would instead go home and read. Every day for 30 minutes, more if they had time or the inclination, with parents or on their own.

"I knew this would be a big shift for my community," she says. But she also strongly believed it was a necessary one. Twenty-first-century learners, especially those in elementary school, need to think critically and understand their own learning — not spend night after night doing rote homework drills.

Brant's move may not be common, but she isn't alone in her questioning. The value of doing schoolwork at home has gone in and out of fashion in the United States among educators, policymakers, the media, and, more recently, parents. As far back as the late 1800s, with the rise of the Progressive Era, doctors such as Joseph Mayer Rice began pushing for a limit on what he called "mechanical homework," saying it caused childhood nervous conditions and eyestrain. Around that time, the then-influential Ladies Home Journal began publishing a series of anti-homework articles, stating that five hours of brain work a day was "the most we should ask of our children," and that homework was an intrusion on family life. In response, states like California passed laws abolishing homework for students under a certain age.

But, as is often the case with education, the tide eventually turned. After the Russians launched the Sputnik satellite in 1957, a space race emerged, and, writes Brian Gill in the journal Theory Into Practice, "The homework problem was reconceived as part of a national crisis; the U.S. was losing the Cold War because Russian children were smarter." Many earlier laws limiting homework were abolished, and the longterm trend toward less homework came to an end.

The debate re-emerged a decade later when parents of the late '60s and '70s argued that children should be free to play and explore — similar anti-homework wellness arguments echoed nearly a century earlier. By the early-1980s, however, the pendulum swung again with the publication of A Nation at Risk , which blamed poor education for a "rising tide of mediocrity." Students needed to work harder, the report said, and one way to do this was more homework.

For the most part, this pro-homework sentiment is still going strong today, in part because of mandatory testing and continued economic concerns about the nation's competitiveness. Many believe that today's students are falling behind their peers in places like Korea and Finland and are paying more attention to Angry Birds than to ancient Babylonia.

But there are also a growing number of Stephanie Brants out there, educators and parents who believe that students are stressed and missing out on valuable family time. Students, they say, particularly younger students who have seen a rise in the amount of take-home work and already put in a six- to nine-hour "work" day, need less, not more homework.

Who is right? Are students not working hard enough or is homework not working for them? Here's where the story gets a little tricky: It depends on whom you ask and what research you're looking at. As Cathy Vatterott, the author of Rethinking Homework , points out, "Homework has generated enough research so that a study can be found to support almost any position, as long as conflicting studies are ignored." Alfie Kohn, author of The Homework Myth and a strong believer in eliminating all homework, writes that, "The fact that there isn't anything close to unanimity among experts belies the widespread assumption that homework helps." At best, he says, homework shows only an association, not a causal relationship, with academic achievement. In other words, it's hard to tease out how homework is really affecting test scores and grades. Did one teacher give better homework than another? Was one teacher more effective in the classroom? Do certain students test better or just try harder?

"It is difficult to separate where the effect of classroom teaching ends," Vatterott writes, "and the effect of homework begins."

Putting research aside, however, much of the current debate over homework is focused less on how homework affects academic achievement and more on time. Parents in particular have been saying that the amount of time children spend in school, especially with afterschool programs, combined with the amount of homework given — as early as kindergarten — is leaving students with little time to run around, eat dinner with their families, or even get enough sleep.

Certainly, for some parents, homework is a way to stay connected to their children's learning. But for others, homework creates a tug-of-war between parents and children, says Liz Goodenough, M.A.T.'71, creator of a documentary called Where Do the Children Play?

"Ideally homework should be about taking something home, spending a few curious and interesting moments in which children might engage with parents, and then getting that project back to school — an organizational triumph," she says. "A nag-free activity could engage family time: Ask a parent about his or her own childhood. Interview siblings."

Instead, as the authors of The Case Against Homework write, "Homework overload is turning many of us into the types of parents we never wanted to be: nags, bribers, and taskmasters."

Leslie Butchko saw it happen a few years ago when her son started sixth grade in the Santa Monica-Malibu (Calif.) United School District. She remembers him getting two to four hours of homework a night, plus weekend and vacation projects. He was overwhelmed and struggled to finish assignments, especially on nights when he also had an extracurricular activity.

"Ultimately, we felt compelled to have Bobby quit karate — he's a black belt — to allow more time for homework," she says. And then, with all of their attention focused on Bobby's homework, she and her husband started sending their youngest to his room so that Bobby could focus. "One day, my younger son gave us 15-minute coupons as a present for us to use to send him to play in the back room. … It was then that we realized there had to be something wrong with the amount of homework we were facing."

Butchko joined forces with another mother who was having similar struggles and ultimately helped get the homework policy in her district changed, limiting homework on weekends and holidays, setting time guidelines for daily homework, and broadening the definition of homework to include projects and studying for tests. As she told the school board at one meeting when the policy was first being discussed, "In closing, I just want to say that I had more free time at Harvard Law School than my son has in middle school, and that is not in the best interests of our children."

One barrier that Butchko had to overcome initially was convincing many teachers and parents that more homework doesn't necessarily equal rigor.

"Most of the parents that were against the homework policy felt that students need a large quantity of homework to prepare them for the rigorous AP classes in high school and to get them into Harvard," she says.

Stephanie Conklin, Ed.M.'06, sees this at Another Course to College, the Boston pilot school where she teaches math. "When a student is not completing [his or her] homework, parents usually are frustrated by this and agree with me that homework is an important part of their child's learning," she says.

As Timothy Jarman, Ed.M.'10, a ninth-grade English teacher at Eugene Ashley High School in Wilmington, N.C., says, "Parents think it is strange when their children are not assigned a substantial amount of homework."

That's because, writes Vatterott, in her chapter, "The Cult(ure) of Homework," the concept of homework "has become so engrained in U.S. culture that the word homework is part of the common vernacular."

These days, nightly homework is a given in American schools, writes Kohn.

"Homework isn't limited to those occasions when it seems appropriate and important. Most teachers and administrators aren't saying, 'It may be useful to do this particular project at home,'" he writes. "Rather, the point of departure seems to be, 'We've decided ahead of time that children will have to do something every night (or several times a week). … This commitment to the idea of homework in the abstract is accepted by the overwhelming majority of schools — public and private, elementary and secondary."

Brant had to confront this when she cut homework at Gaithersburg Elementary.

"A lot of my parents have this idea that homework is part of life. This is what I had to do when I was young," she says, and so, too, will our kids. "So I had to shift their thinking." She did this slowly, first by asking her teachers last year to really think about what they were sending home. And this year, in addition to forming a parent advisory group around the issue, she also holds events to answer questions.

Still, not everyone is convinced that homework as a given is a bad thing. "Any pursuit of excellence, be it in sports, the arts, or academics, requires hard work. That our culture finds it okay for kids to spend hours a day in a sport but not equal time on academics is part of the problem," wrote one pro-homework parent on the blog for the documentary Race to Nowhere , which looks at the stress American students are under. "Homework has always been an issue for parents and children. It is now and it was 20 years ago. I think when people decide to have children that it is their responsibility to educate them," wrote another.

And part of educating them, some believe, is helping them develop skills they will eventually need in adulthood. "Homework can help students develop study skills that will be of value even after they leave school," reads a publication on the U.S. Department of Education website called Homework Tips for Parents. "It can teach them that learning takes place anywhere, not just in the classroom. … It can foster positive character traits such as independence and responsibility. Homework can teach children how to manage time."

Annie Brown, Ed.M.'01, feels this is particularly critical at less affluent schools like the ones she has worked at in Boston, Cambridge, Mass., and Los Angeles as a literacy coach.

"It feels important that my students do homework because they will ultimately be competing for college placement and jobs with students who have done homework and have developed a work ethic," she says. "Also it will get them ready for independently taking responsibility for their learning, which will need to happen for them to go to college."

The problem with this thinking, writes Vatterott, is that homework becomes a way to practice being a worker.

"Which begs the question," she writes. "Is our job as educators to produce learners or workers?"

Slate magazine editor Emily Bazelon, in a piece about homework, says this makes no sense for younger kids.

"Why should we think that practicing homework in first grade will make you better at doing it in middle school?" she writes. "Doesn't the opposite seem equally plausible: that it's counterproductive to ask children to sit down and work at night before they're developmentally ready because you'll just make them tired and cross?"

Kohn writes in the American School Board Journal that this "premature exposure" to practices like homework (and sit-and-listen lessons and tests) "are clearly a bad match for younger children and of questionable value at any age." He calls it BGUTI: Better Get Used to It. "The logic here is that we have to prepare you for the bad things that are going to be done to you later … by doing them to you now."

According to a recent University of Michigan study, daily homework for six- to eight-year-olds increased on average from about 8 minutes in 1981 to 22 minutes in 2003. A review of research by Duke University Professor Harris Cooper found that for elementary school students, "the average correlation between time spent on homework and achievement … hovered around zero."

So should homework be eliminated? Of course not, say many Ed School graduates who are teaching. Not only would students not have time for essays and long projects, but also teachers would not be able to get all students to grade level or to cover critical material, says Brett Pangburn, Ed.M.'06, a sixth-grade English teacher at Excel Academy Charter School in Boston. Still, he says, homework has to be relevant.

"Kids need to practice the skills being taught in class, especially where, like the kids I teach at Excel, they are behind and need to catch up," he says. "Our results at Excel have demonstrated that kids can catch up and view themselves as in control of their academic futures, but this requires hard work, and homework is a part of it."

Ed School Professor Howard Gardner basically agrees.

"America and Americans lurch between too little homework in many of our schools to an excess of homework in our most competitive environments — Li'l Abner vs. Tiger Mother," he says. "Neither approach makes sense. Homework should build on what happens in class, consolidating skills and helping students to answer new questions."

So how can schools come to a happy medium, a way that allows teachers to cover everything they need while not overwhelming students? Conklin says she often gives online math assignments that act as labs and students have two or three days to complete them, including some in-class time. Students at Pangburn's school have a 50-minute silent period during regular school hours where homework can be started, and where teachers pull individual or small groups of students aside for tutoring, often on that night's homework. Afterschool homework clubs can help.

Some schools and districts have adapted time limits rather than nix homework completely, with the 10-minute per grade rule being the standard — 10 minutes a night for first-graders, 30 minutes for third-graders, and so on. (This remedy, however, is often met with mixed results since not all students work at the same pace.) Other schools offer an extended day that allows teachers to cover more material in school, in turn requiring fewer take-home assignments. And for others, like Stephanie Brant's elementary school in Maryland, more reading with a few targeted project assignments has been the answer.

"The routine of reading is so much more important than the routine of homework," she says. "Let's have kids reflect. You can still have the routine and you can still have your workspace, but now it's for reading. I often say to parents, if we can put a man on the moon, we can put a man or woman on Mars and that person is now a second-grader. We don't know what skills that person will need. At the end of the day, we have to feel confident that we're giving them something they can use on Mars."

Read a January 2014 update.

Homework Policy Still Going Strong

Ed. Magazine

The magazine of the Harvard Graduate School of Education

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Debate — Questions, Structure, and Topics

What is a debate?

A debate is a form of public discourse that presents organized arguments by two opposing sides. In a typical debate, two sides (affirmative and negative) are given a proposition to debate using a structured format that differs based on the type.

The affirmative side advocates for the proposition, providing supporting evidence and explanation, while the opposing side refutes the resolution. Therefore, the affirmative wants to convince the audience to adopt the resolution, while the opposition side wants them to reject it.

The audience varies depending on the topic of the debate. Consider the following examples:

Political: Voters

Policy: Lawmakers

Trial: Jury

Public Debate/Forum: Community members

Debate questions

The basis of a debate stems from the resolution, a declarative statement determined by a question. The resolution contains the claim the two sides will debate. These statements derive from debate questions:

Structure for debate

The specific structure depends on the form of debate. However, every formal debate contains a judge, opposing sides, speeches, and a decision.

Debates are set up to persuade a panel of judges rather than the opponent.

There are always two sides in a debate – one that agrees with the resolution (affirming) and one that disagrees (opposing).

Each debate includes rounds of speeches that present the side’s argument. The placement of the speech in the debate impacts its purpose.

The constructive speech is each team’s first speech to build their case.

Rebuttals provide the opportunity for both sides to discredit their opponent’s argument.

Cross-examination allows each side to question the other side.

The period where speakers from both sides can ask and answer each other’s questions is called crossfire . The grand crossfire functions in the same way, except all four speakers participate.

Closing statements offer each side a final opportunity to present their argument.

Upon conclusion of the debate, the judge(s) or moderator decides the winning side.

Types of debates

Team policy, Lincoln-Douglas, spontaneous argumentation, public forum, and parliamentary are the most common types of debates.

Team policy debates consist of two teams of two who take a position concerning a predetermined policy. One team argues to enact the policy while the opposing team members offer reasons to reject it.

Policy debates are structured as follows:

Lincoln-Douglas debates consist of one speaker debating against another speaker and are a common form of high school debates. The topic typically concerns social and philosophical issues with questions concerning ideas such as morality, justice, democracy, etc. They focus on determining if certain thoughts or actions are good or bad, right or wrong, and moral or immoral. Presidential debates typically look most like Lincoln-Douglas debates.

Spontaneous argumentation (SPAR) is a quick and simple type of debate. It typically involves two debaters given a topic right before the debate, allowing only a few minutes for preparation.

Public forum debates feature two teams with two speakers each who debate a topic regarding a current event.

A parliamentary debate includes two teams with two speakers each. The affirmative team is often referred to as the government and is trying to uphold the resolution, whereas the negative team (the opposition) opposes the government’s viewpoint. The government identifies a problem and offers a solution, while the opposition argues against that solution. The rules for this type of debate originated from British parliamentary procedure.

Debating tips

When debating, the following strategies can positively affect the outcome:

While some debate formats allow for a limited amount of preparation time, utilize the time provided. It is best to take as much time as possible to formulate an argument. Going into a debate unprepared not only impacts the argument but can negatively influence body language, eye contact, volume, pacing, etc.

Focus and stay on topic. Make sure each sentence has a purpose and supports the argument.

Use good public speaking skills like appropriate eye contact, volume, pacing, intonation, inflection, posture, etc., which show the speaker’s confidence. Sometimes the presentation can be as important as what is presented.

Debates provide speakers with the opportunity to respond to their opponent’s argument. Focus on actively listening to the opposing side. While it is possible to predict their argument, providing a direct response to something they said is much more persuasive than moving forward as if there is no opposing side.

The point of a debate is to attack the argument , not the opponent.

Debate topics

The following are example topics for each main type of debate:

Team Policy Debate

The United States federal government should substantially increase its protection of its water resources.

The United States federal government should substantially increase its security cooperation with the North Atlantic Treaty Organization in one or more of the following areas: artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and cybersecurity.

New York should offer universal healthcare to its residents.

Lincoln-Douglas Debate

In a democracy, a free press ought to prioritize objectivity over advocacy.

Radicalism is preferable to incrementalism to achieve social justice.

Civil disobedience in a democracy is morally justified.

The actions of corporations ought to be held to the same moral standards as the actions of individuals.

Spontaneous Argumentation (SPAR)

Lying is sometimes justified.

High schools should require uniforms.

Voting is a duty and not a right.

The pen is mightier than the sword.

Money can buy happiness.

Public Forum Debate

Japan should revise Article 9 of its Constitution to develop offensive military capabilities.

The United States should establish a comprehensive bilateral trade agreement with Taiwan.

Parliamentary Debate

In the US criminal justice system, truth-seeking ought to be valued above attorney-client privilege.

Chain stores are detrimental to the best interests of the American public.

The United States Senate should eliminate the filibuster.

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Suggestion of state border tolls by MassDOT secretary sparks debate, pushback

Transportation Secretary Monica Tibbits-Nutt ignited a firestorm of pushback when she recently said the task force she was chairing on long-term transportation funding was considering implementing tolls at state borders.

But on Monday, Gov. Healey put the whole kerfuffle to rest. “To be clear, I am not proposing tolls at any border. I have spoken to the Secretary and made that clear,” she said.

The debate arose after a WalkBoston event on April 10, when Tibbits-Nutt referred to the “uncensored” discussion the task force was having about possible new sources of revenue. She listed several options to raise funds, including increased fees for Uber and Lyft rides, bigger excise taxes for large pickup trucks, Amazon deliveries and tolls. “And when I'm talking tolling, I'm talking at the borders. I'm not talking, like, within Massachusetts,” she said.

Last week, New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu weighed in, telling the Boston Herald, “Looks like Massachusetts has found yet another way to unnecessarily take your money. … All the more reason for more Massachusetts residents to make the permanent move to New Hampshire.”

Asked for details on the tolling idea, a MassDOT spokeswoman said the task force was reviewing many possible revenue sources, including the “evaluation of tolling at all Massachusetts borders.”

When asked about the idea of tolls at the state borders, Senate President Karen Spilka said she has proposed similar ideas in the past.

“If tolls are such a great idea for the turnpike, we should look at them for funding for other areas of the state. I have filed, in the past, bills to put tolls at the borders,” Spilka said. “So, I do believe that we need to be creative about our funding, and I do believe that it needs to be fair, because I believe the tolls system right now is not fair at all.”

Conservatives reacted angrily to the revenue-raising proposals. Massachusetts Republican Party Chair Amy Carnevale said Tibbits-Nutt showed the “true nature” of the Healey administration.

“Already grappling with the burden of unaffordability, the prospect of more tolls, increased taxes on Uber and Lyft rides, Amazon deliveries, and payroll taxes only adds to the struggle of Massachusetts residents,” Carnevale said.

Massachusetts Fiscal Alliance spokesman Paul Craney said Tibbits-Nutt’s comments during the event were “simply reprehensible.”

As the controversy grew, MassDOT issued a statement explaining that none the task force's potential recommendations have been finalized.

“The Secretary was conveying that we need to have difficult conversations about how to make our transportation system work best for everyone. This task force is in its early stages and no decisions have been made about its potential recommendations. Any proposals would be made in collaboration with the Legislature and other stakeholders and would carefully consider any affordability and competitiveness implications.”

The idea of border tolling has a long way to go — if it even makes the final cutoff of revenue-raising options. But if it were to pass, how much revenue could New Hampshire border tolls raise?

According to MassDOT figures, more than 112,000 vehicles cross the border on Route 93 and 108,000 per day on I-95. So charging $1 per car would result in $220,000 a day, or more than $80 million a year.

Christian MilNeil, editor of Streetsblog Mass says tolling is not all about money.

”Bear in mind that part of the purpose of tolling is to reduce traffic and congestion by putting a price on the roadway. … If you raise tolls by 10%, you'd expect to see between a 2% and 8% decrease in traffic at the toll locations“ as people find other ways to travel avoiding the tolls.

But Massachusetts drivers could also pay a higher price to travel to adjoining states if they enact their own tolls in response to Massachusetts’ tolling policies.

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• School Education /

Creative Holiday Homework for Class 8 Science: Ideas and Exercises

• Updated on  
• Apr 23, 2024

Here are some interesting ideas for creative holiday homework for Class 8 Science. As educators, you should understand the importance of fostering curiosity and engagement, even during vacation periods. In this blog, we have curated a diverse range of activities, exercises, projects, and frequently asked questions to make learning science not only informative but also enjoyable and interactive. So, whether you are a student seeking inspiration or a teacher looking to infuse your curriculum with creativity, join us on this journey of exploration and discovery in the fascinating world of science!

Table of Contents

• 1.1 Experiments 
• 1.2 Creative Presentations
• 2.1 CBSE Class 8 Short Answer Questions
• 2.2 CBSE Class 8 MCQs
• 2.3 CBSE Class 8 Long Answer Questions
• 3 Creative Holiday Homework for Class 8 Science: Projects

Creative Holiday Homework for Class 8 Science: Ideas

To begin with, we have enlisted experiments and presentation ideas for creative holiday homework for class 8 science students.

Experiments 

• As teachers, you can ask students to choose a scientific concept they learned in class (like acids and bases, and chemical reactions) and design a fun and safe experiment around it. Tell students to prepare a presentation explaining the science behind the experiment. 
• In addition, you can ask Class 8 students to design a working model that demonstrates a sustainable practice (like a solar water heater or a rainwater collector). Suggest they use recycled materials whenever possible and explain the science behind how their model works, once the school reopens. 
• Moreover, ask your students, Is there a common science myth they have heard (like sugar makes you hyper)? Based on their answers, tell them to design an experiment to test the myth and creatively present their findings, like a comic strip or a video after the summer vacation. 

Creative Presentations

• Introduce a recent scientific breakthrough or discovery to your students. Now, ask them to create a news report (written, video, or even a mock radio broadcast) during the summer vacation. Once the classes resume, ask each one of them to explain the science behind it clearly and engagingly.
• Furthermore, you can suggest students write a short story about a future technology based on scientific concepts they have learned recently. Tell them to explain how the technology works and its potential benefits or drawbacks in their respective stories.
• Besides, you can ask your pupils to research the history of a scientific discovery or invention (like vaccines or electricity). Thereafter, tell them to present their findings on a timeline or create a short play or skit showing the scientists involved and their challenges.

Also Read: Class 3 Holiday Homework- Session 2024-25

Creative Holiday Homework for Class 8 Science: Exercises

Thereafter, this section introduces different types of exercises for creative holiday homework for Class 8 Science. 

CBSE Class 8 Short Answer Questions

Cbse class 8 mcqs, cbse class 8 long answer questions.

Also Read: Exciting Holiday Homework Ideas for Class 2

Creative Holiday Homework for Class 8 Science: Projects

Finally, let us have a look at projects for creative holiday homework for class 8 science. 

Ans: Make holiday homework creative by incorporating art, multimedia, or interactive elements. Use storytelling, presentations, or hands-on projects. Collaborate with classmates or explore real-world applications for a unique touch.

Ans: During summer vacation, set aside specific times for homework to maintain consistency. Break tasks into manageable chunks, utilize effective study techniques and create a conducive environment. Reward yourself for completing tasks to stay motivated and ensure a balanced approach to learning and leisure.

Ans: Here are some interesting ideas: – Ask students to choose a scientific concept they learned in class (like acids and bases, and chemical reactions) and design a fun and safe experiment around it.  – Suggest students write a short story about a future technology based on scientific concepts they have learned recently. Tell them to explain how the technology works and its potential benefits or drawbacks in their respective stories.

Follow the school education page of Leverage Edu to discover other holiday homework and project ideas for school students. 

Ankita Singh

Ankita is a history enthusiast with a few years of experience in academic writing. Her love for literature and history helps her curate engaging and informative content for education blog. When not writing, she finds peace in analysing historical and political anectodes.

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• Government reform
• Civil service reform

Working smarter: how we can set the new standard for workplaces

The Government Property Agency brought together Civil Service leaders to exchange ideas, debate trends and inform how the GPA delivers its property services.

The Government Property Agency (GPA) is leading one of the country’s biggest and most ambitious workplace renewal programmes for its clients – delivering a smaller, better connected, better quality, and greener property estate to support the work of Civil Service teams and bring them closer to the communities they serve.

The world of work has transformed dramatically since the GPA was set up in 2018. Hybrid working has grown significantly, while the technology needed to underpin this way of doing things has advanced at pace. Against this backdrop of change, the GPA wanted to understand even more about how it could support clients and deliver an innovative and quality service. Recently, it brought together leaders from across the Civil Service as well as industry experts at Central Hall in the heart of Westminster to exchange ideas, debate current trends and inform how the GPA delivers its property services in future.

The debate focused on three core themes: partnership working; the workplace experience; and leveraging data.

Better together

There was a common thread through all the discussions at Central Hall: the importance of partnership. The GPA’s Chair, Pat Ritchie and interim CEO, Mark Bourgeois explained how the agency is building on foundations put in place since it was established to look at how it can deliver the next phase of its complex programme – working hand in hand with clients. Freya Guinness, Director General for Corporate Services and Chief Operating Officer (COO) at the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), gave the client side of the story. 

As traditional ideas about the workplace are disrupted, it was acknowledged that regular dialogue is paramount to help the GPA understand the evolving needs of government teams and any areas for improvement – ensuring the basics are in place to pave the way for more ambitious change. Equally, it was recognised that clients should engage the GPA in their long-term workforce strategies so that it can plan better on their behalf.  

There was agreement that this open and honest conversation between partners should not just be about highlighting issues, but celebrating successes too so that these can be replicated. Tackling siloed thinking was also seen as crucial. 

The GPA’s relationship with its clients is unique compared to others in the world of real estate – its clients don’t choose who they work with, but they have a closer, shared interest with the agency than a purely commercial agreement. An interactive session led by the GPA’s Non-Executive Director, Helen Gillett and the Department for Education’s COO, Jane Cunliffe, explored how this mutually exclusive partnership could work to both parties’ advantage. Shared missions around transforming the Civil Service, investing in regional growth and delivering net zero goals can form the bedrock of a fruitful and productive working relationship. But attendees felt these values should be backed up by tangible delivery commitments too.

Understanding the workplace as experience

From the specific needs of government clients to the wider world of work, Lohan Presencer, Chair at the Ministry of Sound, and Despina Katsikakis, Global Head of Total Workplace at Cushman & Wakefield, gave the audience a window into best practice in the private sector. Both discussed how office planning, design and management is borrowing from hospitality as the emphasis becomes less about desks per square foot, and more about the experience that employees get in the workplace.

The office is no longer just a place to sit at a computer – arguably, that can be done from any location now. It has become an enabling space for creativity, ideas sharing and collaboration between teams. It should be a place for making connections and establishing communities, bonding people to their employer and to each other. The best projects in the private sector are putting these objectives at their heart.  

The conversation centred on how government offices could compete with this new focus in the race for talent. It was recognised that it would be easier for modern government hubs but how could older, existing assets, which might have design constraints, keep up? Lohan stressed that it was more about the mindset than the specifics – every space can be improved, he argued. 

Interesting questions were posed about how the model could be adapted for different people’s needs, particularly those who are neurodiverse. Providing a variety of working spaces within a building is important. Discussion also turned to how the success of this model should be measured, tracking the impact on employees’ productivity, motivation and engagement. The answer lies in data, but just counting work stations isn’t enough.

Unlocking the power of data 

Technology is underpinning the workplace’s transformation – with new tools allowing teams to stay connected across places like never before and removing barriers to productivity. The GPA is rolling out the GovPass system across the buildings it manages, making it easier for civil servants to work from any office. And to get online quickly with GovWifi when they arrive. 

With this new tech comes vast data and in turn the potential to learn about how office use and people’s habits are changing and why. Clients were keen to explore the possibility of working with the GPA to leverage this insight for their own planning, as well as to guide future decisions for the estate.  

Despina talked about the importance of gathering information from a mix of datasets – both to gain a better understanding of what’s really happening on the ground, and also to maintain employees’ trust.  Data gathering should be done with, not in spite of colleagues, she argued. Tell people why you are tracking trends and ask for their anecdotal experience too. This ultimately leads to better results and helps people to understand how the process can benefit them by delivering spaces which meet their needs in the long run.  

Keeping the conversation going 

There was fantastic engagement at the conference as intended, but with the world of work evolving so quickly, it was clear to all that the conversation shouldn’t stop here. The GPA will continue to discuss, share ideas with and learn from its clients, as well as from the wider property sector, to deliver better outcomes for the Civil Service and ultimately the people it serves.  

Want to know more?

To find out more about the GPA’s workplace transformation programme and how it is supporting government clients, speak to Yvette Greener , Client Director.

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Free Associations Podcast 145: Tweets and Changes in Racial Sentiments

Social Media Use Linked to Tobacco Initiation among Youth

Free associations podcast 145: tweets and changes in racial sentiments ..

Tweets and Changes in Racial Sentiments

Episode 145, nick gooler.

Matthew Fox , Jessica Liebler , and guest host Allegra Gordon discuss a study using tweets to see if there have been changes in racial sentiment over time, they debate whether in-person or remote work is better for paradigm shifts, and Allegra tells us how birds are smarter than people who don’t want birds nesting on their roofs.

Download Transcript

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International Edition

Why Biden Should Not Debate Trump

The networks want their show, but to give the challenger equal status on a TV stage would be a dire normalization of his attempted coup.

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Produced by ElevenLabs and News Over Audio (NOA) using AI narration.

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A consortium of television networks yesterday released a joint statement inviting President Joe Biden and his presumptive opponent, Donald Trump, to debate on their platforms: “There is simply no substitute for the candidates debating with each other, and before the American people, their visions for the future of our nation.”

President Biden’s spokesperson should answer like this: “The Constitution is not debatable. The president does not participate in forums with a person under criminal indictment for his attempt to overthrow the Constitution.”

In their letter of invitation, the networks refer to presidential debates as a “competition of ideas.” But one of the two men they’re inviting turned the last election into a competition of violence: Trump tried to seize the presidency by force in 2021.

David Frum: The ego has crash-landed

If Trump had not occupied the presidency at the time of his attempted coup d’état, he would very likely be already serving a lengthy prison term for his alleged crimes against the 2020 election. Earlier this month, a principal figure in the January 6 attack was sentenced to seven years in prison , the latest of many such serious convictions and sentences. Fortunately for Trump, the U.S. justice system is highly cautious, deferential, and slow when dealing with persons of wealth and importance. Although the followers have been punished, the indicted leader of the plot is unlikely to face trial before Election Day 2024. Until tried and convicted, Trump must be regarded as innocent in the eyes of the law.

But the political system has eyes of its own. No doubt exists about what Trump did, or why, or what his actions meant. Trump lost an election, then incited a violent mob to attack the Capitol. He hoped that the insurrectionists would terrorize, kidnap, or even kill his own vice president in order to stop the ceremony to formalize the victory of Biden and his vice president, Kamala Harris. By disrupting the ceremony, Trump schemed to cast the election’s result to the House of Representatives, where Republican voting strength might proclaim him president in place of the lawful winner. Many people were badly injured by Trump’s violent plan, and some died as a result.

The single most important question on the ballot for 2024 is: Does any of this matter? Is violence by losers to overturn election results an acceptable tool of politics? Is anti-constitutional violence by election losers just another political issue, like inflation or immigration or foreign policy? The television executives apparently believe that, yes, violence is just another issue. “If there is one thing Americans can agree on during this polarized time,” they write, “it is that the stakes of this election are exceptionally high.”

“The stakes are high” would be a fair way to describe an election like that of 1980, when Americans faced a choice between two very different approaches to taxes and spending. It would be a fair way to describe the 2004 election, when Americans were asked to choose between an early exit from the Iraq War and staying the course. But it seems a morally trivializing way to describe an election in which one of the candidates has been criminally indicted for his part in a conspiracy to overthrow the Constitution.

Elliot Ackerman: War-gaming for democracy

Imagine such a presidential debate. “President Biden,” you could hear the moderator say, “we’ll get to Mr. Trump’s alleged violent coup in a moment, but in this segment, we are discussing food prices.”

The role of the television networks here is, unfortunately, not an innocent one. “The stakes of the election are high” is a commencement-address way of phrasing the thought: We are anticipating huge ratings. Trump is box office; everybody knows that—and box office translates into revenues at a time when television is losing them. For TV executives to convince themselves that what is good for their own bottom line is good for the country seems very easy. But good for the country is radically not the case here.

Imagine watching the debate with the sound off—what would you see? Two men, both identified as “president,” standing side by side, receiving equal deference from some of the most famous hosts and anchors on American television. The message: Violence to overthrow an election is not such a big deal. Some Americans disapprove of it; others have different opinions—that’s why we have debates. Coup d’état: tip of the hat? Or wag of the finger?

For Biden to refuse to rub elbows with Trump won’t make Trump go away, of course. The Confederacy did not go away when Abraham Lincoln refused to concede the title of president to Jefferson Davis. That’s not why Lincoln consistently denied Davis that title. Lincoln understood how demoralizing it would be to Union-loyal Americans if he accepted the claim that Davis was a president rather than a rebel and an insurrectionist. Biden should understand how demoralizing it would be to democracy-loyal Americans if he accepted the claim that Trump is more than a January 6 defendant.

Biden has engaged in many high-level television debates over the years: vice-presidential debates in 2008 and 2012; debates for the Democratic presidential nomination in 1987, 2007 , and 2019–20. Biden also debated then-President Trump in the fall of 2020. Biden is and was a capable television communicator, as he demonstrated again in his recent State of the Union address. Biden delivered that address with such force and skill that Trump had to imply that Biden must be relying on performance-enhancing drugs. If Ron DeSantis or Nikki Haley had won the Republican nomination in 2024, Biden would, and should, have debated them.

But this is different.

David Frum: The ruin that a Trump presidency would mean

Political debates exist to provide voters with relevant information about their electoral choices. The most necessary information that Biden needs to communicate is that Trump is a traitor to the U.S. Constitution. But people will not appreciate something so abnormal if it is habitually characterized as normal.

Many institutions of American life have habits and incentives that lead them to treat Trump’s attempted coup as normal politics. Television and other mass media exhibit worse habits and incentives than most of those institutions. But President Biden does not need to indulge them.

Trump is owed due process in a court of law. He is not owed the courtesies of the office whose oath he betrayed. Biden prefers to keep the temperature of politics low if he can. That’s a good impulse most of the time. But there are occasions when it’s the president’s job to defy the pressure and say no. This debate invitation is one such time.