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125 Winning Debate Topics for Middle School Students
Teach students to make effective arguments.
When students learn to debate, they gain valuable life skills. Debates teach kids to research their topic, make informed choices, and argue effectively using facts instead of emotion. This list of middle school debate topics encompasses both serious and lighthearted ideas for kids ages 10 to 14. 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
Technology and entertainment debate topics, life and ethics debate topics, fun and funny debate topics.
- Controversial Debate Topics
- It’s better to be good at academics than to be good at sports.
- Homework should be banned.
- Schools should require all students to wear uniforms.
- We should punish students for using curse words.
- Year-round school is better for students.
- Schools should require physical education (gym class) through 12th grade.
- All students should be required to volunteer in their community.
- Junk food should be banned in schools.
- All middle school students should learn a foreign language.
- Single-gender schools are better for students.
- Math is the most important school subject.
- Letter grades should be abolished.
- Teachers should be replaced by computers.
- Students should be graded on their handwriting.
- Kids 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.
- Students should be allowed to grade teachers.
- Kids should be able to bring their pets to school.
- Schools should give middle school students more recess time.
- The school day should be shorter.
- Schools should eliminate dress codes.
- College should be free for everyone who wants to attend.
- Schools should be allowed to ban some books from their libraries.
- Book smarts are better than street smarts.
- All people should have free internet access.
- Playing violent video games makes people more likely to be violent in real life.
- Reality television depicts real life.
- The minimum age to own a smartphone should be 16.
- Students should be allowed to use phones in class.
- Macs are better than PCs.
- Androids are better than iPhones.
- Kids under 13 should be allowed to use social media sites like TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat.
- Students should not be allowed to watch TV on school nights.
- Social media does more harm than good.
- Video games are better than board games.
- Reading books is better than watching TV.
- All paper documents should be replaced with electronic versions.
- Books are always better than the movies that are made from them.
- Parents should use their kids’ cell phones to track where they are.
- 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.
- Movie ratings (G, PG, PG-13, and R) should be done away with.
- Professional athletes and celebrities deserve to make more money than the average person.
- People have a responsibility to help one another out.
- No one should ever tell a lie.
- Girls face more peer pressure than boys.
- We should lower the voting age to 12.
- Every member of a family should have daily chores.
- All museums and zoos should be free to everyone.
- All people should be vegetarians.
- Democracy is the best form of government.
- All Americans should be required to vote.
- Cigarette smoking and vaping should be banned entirely.
- Parents should be allowed to read their children’s private diaries.
- Giving is better than receiving.
- Receiving a regular allowance is good for kids.
- Parents should be punished for their children’s mistakes.
- Real Christmas trees are better than artificial ones.
- We should not keep animals in zoos.
- All kids should play on the same sports teams, regardless of gender.
- It is better to save some of your allowance than to spend it all.
- Kids should be allowed to stay up as late as they want.
- Happiness is more important than success.
- The driving age should be lowered to 14.
- We should completely ban plastic bottles.
- Parents 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.
- All kids should have a playground or park within walking distance of their home.
- Kids should be allowed to have credit cards.
- It’s important to spend money exploring space.
- All families should have a pet.
- Dogs are better pets than cats.
- Summer is better than winter.
- Pepperoni is the best pizza topping.
- Teachers shouldn’t give rewards and prizes in the classroom.
- Clowns are more scary than funny.
- Every home should have a robot.
- There is intelligent life on other planets.
- The egg came before the chicken.
- Pop music is better than classical music.
- Xbox is better than PlayStation.
- Peanut butter is better than Nutella.
- Football is better than soccer.
- Everyone should make their bed every day.
- It would be better to be able to fly than to be able to turn invisible.
- Harry Potter is better than The Lord of the Rings .
- Pluto should still be considered a planet.
- Santa Claus’ elves should be paid minimum wage.
- Hot chocolate is better than a chocolate milkshake.
- Fruit counts as dessert.
- People should be allowed to go barefoot anywhere if they want to.
- Fiction is better than nonfiction.
- Everyone should learn to play a musical instrument.
- Werewolves are more dangerous than vampires.
- Kids shouldn’t have to go to school on their birthdays.
Controversial Middle School Debate Topics
These middle school debate topics are pretty contentious and might not be appropriate for all students or every classroom. But if your middle schoolers are ready to take on more serious debates, try these important questions.
- We should abolish the death penalty.
- Stricter gun control laws help stop mass shootings.
- It’s necessary to continue building a wall between the United States and Mexico.
- Segregation still exist in the United States.
- Religion does more harm than good.
- We will never achieve world peace.
- We shouldn’t allow young children to play contact sports like football.
- Parents shouldn’t be allowed to pierce a baby’s ears.
- Beauty pageants are sexist.
- Kids shouldn’t get participation trophies for sports.
- It’s possible to be an ethical hunter.
- Some stereotypes are accurate.
- People have a responsibility to step in when they see a crime in action.
- War is sometimes necessary.
- There are times when we must limit freedom of speech.
- Security is more important than freedom.
- We should do away with gender-specific public bathrooms.
- Anyone over age 12 should be tried as an adult in court.
- Electric vehicles are better than gas-powered ones.
- Our society has a harmful “diet culture.”
- All countries should have to give up their nuclear weapons.
- We should ban testing on animals.
- We should ban the use of fossil fuels.
- Human cloning should be legal.
- Vaccines should be mandatory.
What are your favorite middle school debate topics? Come share in the We Are Teachers HELPLINE group on Facebook .
Plus, check out 75 funny debate topics for kids of all ages ..
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110 Stimulating Debate Topics for Middle Schoolers
May 1, 2023 // by Lauren Du Plessis
As a middle school student, developing critical thinking skills and learning to communicate effectively are essential components of academic success. One of the best ways to develop these skills is through participation in debates. Debating helps students to build confidence, learn how to structure an argument, and become more persuasive communicators. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of 110 engaging middle school debate topics, along with tips for preparing for a debate and additional resources to help students improve their skills.
To start off the article, let’s dive into an anecdote of a successful middle school debate. For instance, “Have you ever witnessed a middle school debate where students passionately presented their arguments and rebuttals? It’s an incredible sight to see. Recently, during a middle school debate tournament, a group of students debated on the topic of school uniforms. They presented compelling arguments for both sides, and their delivery was so impressive that even the judges struggled to pick a winner. Such debating skills are not only useful in school but can also help students in their future academic and professional lives.”
How to choose a good debate topic
Choosing a good debate topic can be challenging, but here are some tips to help middle school students find topics that are relevant, interesting, and debatable:
- Select a topic that is relevant to current events or issues that students care about.
- Choose a topic that has strong arguments on both sides.
- Consider the age-appropriateness of the topic for middle school students.
Here is a list of 110 debate topics that are categorized by subject area and themes that are relevant to middle school students, such as social justice, technology, or the environment.
Social Studies
1. Should schools require students to learn a second language?
2. Should voting be mandatory?
3. Should the voting age be lowered to 16?
4. Should the U.S. government provide free health care for all citizens?
5. Should the U.S. government provide more financial aid to developing countries?
6. Should the U.S. government provide more funding for space exploration?
7. Should the United States have a national service program for all citizens?
8. Should the Electoral College be abolished?
9. Should the U.S. government increase the minimum wage?
10. Should undocumented immigrants be allowed to attend public schools?
11. Should genetically modified organisms (GMOs) be allowed in food?
12. Should zoos be banned?
13. Should animal testing be allowed?
14. Should the use of fossil fuels be banned?
15. Should the use of pesticides be banned?
16. Should space exploration be prioritized over ocean exploration?
17. Should scientists be allowed to genetically modify human embryos?
18. Should vaccination be mandatory for all school children?
19. Should humans colonize Mars?
20. Should plastic water bottles be banned?
21. Should schools require students to learn computer programming?
22. Should schools eliminate the use of standardized testing?
23. Should schools switch to year-round schedules?
24. Should schools eliminate homework?
25. Should students be allowed to use calculators in math class?
26. Should schools eliminate grades and tests altogether?
27. Should schools switch to a pass/fail grading system?
Language Arts
28. Should schools allow students to use cell phones in class?
29. Should schools switch to e-books instead of traditional textbooks?
30. Should schools eliminate handwriting instruction?
31. Should schools teach cursive handwriting?
32. Should schools teach media literacy and critical thinking skills?
33. Should schools eliminate spelling tests?
34. Should schools require students to read certain books?
35. Should schools teach coding instead of traditional language arts?
36. Should schools eliminate the use of paper and switch to digital submissions?
37. Should schools ban students from using slang in class?
Social Justice
38. Should the death penalty be abolished?
39. Should there be stricter gun control laws?
40. Should hate speech be protected under the First Amendment?
41. Should hate crimes carry steeper penalties than other crimes?
42. Should affirmative action policies be implemented in college admissions?
43. Should reparations be paid to descendants of slaves?
44. Should police officers be required to wear body cameras at all times?
45. Should marijuana be legalized?
46. Should the drinking age be lowered to 18?
47. Should the government provide a free college education for all citizens?
48. Should prisoners be allowed to vote?
49. Should euthanasia be legalized?
50. Should video games be considered a sport?
51. Should social media companies be held responsible for misinformation on their platforms?
52. Should children under the age of 13 be allowed to use social media?
53. Should artificial intelligence be used in decision-making processes?
54. Should autonomous vehicles be allowed on the roads?
55. Should companies be allowed to use personal data for targeted advertising?
56. Should encryption be required for all online communication?
57. Should net neutrality be enforced?
Environment
58. Should hunting be banned?
59. Should there be stricter regulations on water pollution?
60. Should there be more public transportation options to reduce car emissions?
61. Should fracking be banned?
62. Should zoos and aquariums focus more on conservation efforts?
63. Should renewable energy sources be prioritized over fossil fuels?
64. Should the use of single-use plastics be banned?
65. Should the government provide incentives for eco-friendly behaviors?
Arts and Culture
66. Should the government fund public art installations?
67. Should the government regulate the content of movies and TV shows?
68. Should book censorship be allowed?
69. Should public monuments honoring controversial historical figures be removed?
70. Should the government fund the production of movies and TV shows?
71. Should public funding for the arts be increased?
72. Should music and art classes be required in schools?
73. Should museums be free for all visitors?
74. Should graffiti be considered art?
75. Should high school athletes be drug tested?
76. Should cheerleading be considered a sport?
77. Should professional athletes be held to higher standards of behavior?
78. Should professional sports teams be allowed to use Native American mascots?
79. Should women be allowed to play on men’s sports teams?
80. Should sports teams be required to hire a certain number of minority coaches?
81. Should athletes be allowed to kneel during the national anthem?
82. Should college athletes be paid?
83. Should performance-enhancing drugs be legalized in sports?
84. Should boxing be banned?
Food and Health
85. Should there be a tax on sugary drinks?
86. Should the government regulate the portion sizes of restaurant meals?
87. Should there be a limit on the amount of salt in processed foods?
88. Should junk food advertisements be banned?
89. Should vegetarianism be promoted in schools?
90. Should schools teach more about healthy eating and exercise?
91. Should fast food restaurants be banned from schools?
92. Should school lunches be free for all students?
93. Should schools eliminate soda machines?
94. Should the study of history be mandatory in schools?
95. Should the U.S. government pay reparations to Native American tribes?
96. Should the U.S. government apologize for the internment of Japanese Americans during WWII?
97. Should the U.S. government provide reparations to descendants of Holocaust survivors?
98. Should the U.S. government apologize for slavery?
99. Should the U.S. government provide reparations to descendants of Chinese railroad workers?
100. Should women be included in the military draft?
101. Should Columbus Day be abolished?
Business and Economics
102. Should the U.S. government increase funding for scientific research?
103. Should the U.S. government increase funding for public education?
104. Should the U.S. government increase taxes on the wealthy?
105. Should companies be required to provide paid parental leave?
106. Should companies be required to provide a living wage for all employees?
107. Should the government provide financial incentives for small businesses?
108. Should the government bail out struggling industries?
109. Should the U.S. government provide free public transportation?
110. Should the U.S. government provide a universal basic income?
How to prepare for a debate
Preparing for a debate is just as important as choosing the right topic. Here are some tips for researching and preparing arguments, as well as strategies for presenting arguments effectively and persuasively:
- Research the topic thoroughly, using a variety of sources.
- Identify the strongest arguments for both sides.
- Develop a clear thesis statement and supporting arguments.
- Anticipate counterarguments and prepare rebuttals.
- Use evidence to support arguments.
- Practice delivering arguments and rebuttals in a clear and concise manner.
- Follow the standard format for a debate, such as opening statements, cross-examination, and closing statements.
Additional resources for middle school debaters
Here are some additional resources that can help students learn more about debate and improve their skills:
- National Speech & Debate Association (NSDA): Offers resources for middle and high school debaters, including competitions and training programs.
- Debatepedia: Provides resources for researching and debating controversial issues.
- ProCon.org: Provides arguments for both sides of controversial issues.
- Debate.org: Offers an online debate platform for students to practice and refine their skills.
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125 Winning Debate Topics for Middle School Students
When students learn to debate, they gain valuable life skills. Debates teach kids to research their topic, make informed choices, and argue effectively using facts instead of emotion. This list of middle school debate topics encompasses both serious and lighthearted ideas for kids ages 10 to 14. 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
Technology and entertainment debate topics, life and ethics debate topics, fun and funny debate topics, controversial middle school debate topics.
These middle school debate topics are pretty contentious and might not be appropriate for all students or every classroom. But if your middle schoolers are ready to take on more serious debates, try these important questions.
What are your favorite middle school debate topics? Come share in the We Are Teachers HELPLINE group on Facebook .
Plus, check out 75 funny debate topics for kids of all ages ., dig deeper with our longreads, newsletter sign up to get our best longform features, investigations, and thought-provoking essays, in your inbox every sunday..
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107 Captivating Debate Topics For Middle School Students
107 Captivating Debate Topics For Middle School Students — Debating can be an excellent way for middle school students to learn how to think critically and express their ideas. Plus, students learn how to listen to the perspectives of others, which is a great thing indeed. You see…
Our debate topics for middle school students are an engaging way to spark critical thinking, foster respectful dialogue, and nurture a passion for learning.
Wonderfully, debating can help your middle schoolers develop research and communication skills – and it can help them practice their writing skill development as they prep for the debate!
As you well know, students have a wide range of ideas, opinions, and beliefs, and it’s vital to have a forum where they can express themselves and challenge others.
And that’s why…
We have some highly captivating debate topics for middle school students for you to use in your classroom.
Take a look now and enjoy!
107 Captivating Debate Topics for Middle School Students by Topic
Fun and Engaging
- Should pineapple be on pizza?
- Is chocolate better than vanilla?
- Is it better to be rich and famous or happy and healthy?
- Should we have a four-day workweek?
- Should pets be allowed in schools?
- Birthdays should/should not celebrated in school?
- Debate the age-old which came first, the chicken or the egg?
- Is it better to read books or watch movies?
Funny Debate Topics
- Is a hot dog a sandwich?
- Is cereal soup?
- Is it better to be a superhero or a sidekick?
- Should clowns be banned from kids’ parties?
- Is it better to have a pet unicorn or a pet dragon?
Science and Technology
- Should schools allow the use of AI (Artificial Intelligence) tools so students can have longer breaks and spend more time outdoors?
- Should all students be required to learn to code?
- Should AI robots be allowed to compete in sports?
- Should we colonize Mars, the moon, and/or other planets?
- Debate banning social media use for kids under 13.
- Should students be allowed to bring their phones to school?
- Is homework beneficial or should it be abolished?
- Should there be a greater focus on vocational education in schools?
- Should students be able to choose their own classes?
- Should schools have longer days and shorter weeks?
- Is it important to learn a foreign language in middle school?
- How can schools teach students critical thinking skills?
- What are the 3 top benefits of critical thinking?
Lesson Plans
- Who should create lesson plans: teachers or administrators?
- How can teachers create lesson plans that are engaging and effective?
- How can lesson plans be adapted to meet the needs of all students?
- Should classrooms be equipped with more technology?
- What tech should be used in schools: Mac, PC, Chromebooks, or…?
- Should classrooms have fewer students?
- Should classrooms be more hands-on or more lecture-based?
Smartphones
- Should smartphones be allowed in schools?
- Is it ethical for companies to collect and use personal data from smartphone users?
- Should schools teach students how to use smartphones safely and responsibly?
- What age should kids be allowed to have and use their smartphones?
- Does smartphone usage contribute to mental health issues among adolescents?
Peers and Peer Pressure
- What are the different types of peer pressure?
- What role does social media play in peer pressure?
- How can schools help students deal with peer pressure?
- Is peer pressure always negative, or can it also have positive effects?
- How can schools promote positive peer relationships?
School Uniforms
- Should schools require students to wear uniforms?
- What are the pros and cons of school uniforms?
- Should students have a say in how their school uniforms look?
- Should children be required to do chores?
- What are the benefits of children doing chores?
- How can parents teach their children how to do chores?
High School Students
- Should high school students be required to take more STEM classes?
- Should high school students have more opportunities to take college-level courses?
- What can high school students do to mentor middle school students?
Public Speaking
- Should public speaking be a required class for all students?
- How can schools help students improve their public speaking skills?
- What are the benefits of public speaking?
Year-Round School
- Should schools be open year-round?
- What are the pros and cons of year-round school?
- How does or how would year-round school affect students, teachers, and families?
- Should student athletes be paid?
- Should student athletes be held to higher academic standards?
- Should student athletes be required to take certain classes?
Sports Teams
- Should schools cut sports teams to save money?
- Should schools require students to try out for sports teams?
- Should schools have more girls’ sports teams?
- How can schools protect students’ privacy?
- What are the ethical concerns surrounding the use of surveillance cameras in schools?
- Should students be able to choose whether or not to have their information shared with third parties?
College Education
- Should college be more affordable?
- Should college be required for all students?
- Should students be able to choose their own college major?
iPhone or Android
- Which is better: iPhone or Android?
- What are the pros and cons of iPhones and Androids?
- Which phone is better for students?
Ethics and Philosophy
- Is it ever right to lie?
- Should we be allowed to eat meat?
- Is animal testing justified?
- Should we clone humans?
- Should we allow euthanasia?
Society and Culture
- Should everyone be required to recycle?
- Should schools have fewer kids per school or classroom?
- Should there be a ban on fast food?
- Should we have a universal basic income?
- Should we lower the voting age to 16?
Artificial Intelligence
- How can artificial intelligence be used to improve education?
- What are the ethical concerns surrounding the use of artificial intelligence in education?
- Should students be taught how to use artificial intelligence responsibly?
Ok. I hope you enjoyed this list of middle school debate topics.
A Few Words on Using Our List of Debate Topics for Middle School Students with Your Kids
Engaging middle school students in debate is a fantastic way to develop their critical thinking, communication, and research skills.
You see…
By presenting them with thought-provoking debate topics, you can encourage them to express their opinions and engage in constructive discussions.
Of course…
When choosing a topic, it is important to consider your students’ interests and maturity level.
Further, you will want to ensure that the topic is age-appropriate and that there are enough resources available for students to research it.
Alrighty. These topics are designed to spark interesting and engaging debates among middle school students while encouraging them to think critically about various issues affecting their lives and the world around them. Without any more fanfare, here is a list of debate topics for middle school students.
Now, check out this bonus list of…
Debate Topics for Middle School Students (Best for Mature Thinkers)
Here are a few debate topics for middle school students that are appropriate for those more mature thinkers.
- Should abortion be legal?
- Should gun control be stricter?
- Should the death penalty be abolished?
- Is animal testing necessary for scientific advancements?
- Should violent video games be restricted to minors?
- How is critical thinking vital to hot-button topics such as climate change, vaping, or corporal punishment?
Surveillance Cameras
- Should schools have surveillance cameras in classrooms?
- Should surveillance cameras be used to monitor student behavior?
- What are the pros and cons of using surveillance cameras in schools?
Body Cameras
- Should police officers be required to wear body cameras?
- Should schools require teachers to wear body cameras?
- What are the pros and cons of using body cameras?
Alternative Medicine and Healthcare
- Should schools teach students about alternative medicine and healthcare?
- What are the pros and cons of alternative medicine and healthcare?
- Should schools provide students with access to alternative medicine and healthcare?
- Should junk food be banned from school cafeterias?
Healthcare and Personal Wellness
- Should the government provide healthcare to all citizens?
- Should healthcare be a right or a privilege?
- How should healthcare be funded?
- What responsibilities support personal wellness?
These are just some of the many great ideas for debate topics for Middle School Students.
To ensure your student’s active participation in the debate process, have them explore subjects that resonate with their interests, age, and maturity. By doing so, you can create a stimulating environment where students can engage in meaningful discussions all while broadening their perspectives.
142 More Free Prompts & Resources
- 36 Opinion Writing Prompts for Students
- 23 Great Persuasive Essay Topics for High School
- 33 Argumentative Essay Topics for Middle School
- 50 Funny Debate Topics for Students
Until next time, debate on…
If you enjoyed these Debate Topics for Middle School Students , please share them on social media via TikTok. Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and/or Pinterest. I appreciate it!
Sincerely, Jill journalbuddies.com creator and curator
PS Check out these 5 Tips for Teaching Project-Based Debate in Middle School
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22 Middle School Debate Activities to Inspire Students
- Middle School
Introduction:
Debate activities are essential not just for teaching public speaking and communication skills, but they also help students learn critical thinking, research, listening, and argumentation. Here are 22 engaging debate activities to inspire your middle school students.
1. Four Corners: Divide the classroom into four corners numbered one through four. Assign a statement or issue and have each student pick a corner representing their stance: strongly agree, agree, disagree, or strongly disagree.
2. Balloon Debates: Provide a scenario where a hot air balloon is sinking, and each student represents a famous person who needs to argue why they should stay on the balloon.
3. Speed Debating: Assign topics and give students only two minutes to prepare their arguments. This activity promotes quick thinking skills.
4. Two Sides of the Same Coin: Students need to represent both sides of an argument by presenting one side first and then switching roles and arguing for the opposing side.
5. Everyday Issues: Encourage students to debate topics relevant to their daily lives such as school uniforms or homework policies.
6. Press Conference: One student becomes a notable figure facing challenging questions from their classmates who act as reporters.
7. The Dinner Party Debate: Each student assumes the role of an influential figure from history attending a dinner party where everyone discusses the topic at hand.
8. Quote Analysis: Students are given famous quotes and tasked with debating their meaning or relevance in today’s society.
9. Ad Debates: Analyze controversial advertisements and discuss whether they are acceptable or should be banned.
10. Popular Culture Debates: Use popular movies, TV shows, or books as inspiration for debate topics that challenge students’ critical thinking skills.
11. One-Minute Speeches: Have students give one-minute speeches on assigned topics to improve their ability to articulate thoughts concisely.
12. Role Reversal Debating: Assign students to debate a topic contrary to their personal beliefs to encourage empathy and understanding.
13. Elevator Pitch: Students formulate an elevator pitch on why their chosen product or idea is best.
14. This House Believes: Use the classic debate format where students take on the roles of government and opposition to debate a statement such as “This House believes that social media does more harm than good.”
15. Panel Debates: Small groups of students act as panels, discussing a topic and answering audience questions.
16. Moral Dilemmas: Present controversial moral situations that provoke thoughtful debate about ethics and values.
17. Would You Rather: Create scenarios where students must choose between two difficult options, justifying their choice through reasoning and debate.
18. Charades Debate: Using popular topics or historical events, students act out their arguments in this fun, non-verbal debating activity.
19. Fishbowl Debates: In this discussion technique, a small group sits in the center of the room (the fishbowl) while the rest of the class observes and analyzes their debate.
20. Mock Trials: Stage a mock trial where students act as lawyers, witnesses, bailiffs, and jurors to practice argumentation and public speaking skills.
21. Structured Academic Controversy: Break students into groups with each one researching different aspects of an issue before engaging in collaborative discussions and then sharing findings with the class.
22. Policy Debates: Examine politics through debates on various policies or laws from your country or around the world.
Conclusion:
Incorporating middle school debate activities provides students with opportunities to develop critical skills in persuasion, communication, listening, and problem-solving while also allowing them to explore real-world issues passionately and thoughtfully.
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50 Debate Topics For Middle School Students
Debates are a fantastic way to teach a number of skills to middle school students. They help students to develop the ability to research a topic, work as a team, practice public speaking, and improve their critical thinking skills. For teachers, however, it can be challenging to come up with debate topics for middle school students that are fun, interesting, and engaging. So to help you out, we have put together this list of 50 debate topics for middle school students. Some are fun and silly, some are serious, and some are even controversial. But all of these debate topics are guaranteed to engage your teenage students in a meaningful debate.
Debate Topics For Middle School Students
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Debate Topics for Middle School
In 2022, debate remains a skill that students benefit from picking up in middle school. It sets them up to have the ability to discuss topics with their peers in a productive manner well into adulthood. They develop auxiliary skills too such as speech, conversation, and creative writing skills.
Let’s explore the skill of debate a little further and debate topics for middle school students .
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What Is Debate?
A debate is a formal discussion on a defined topic. It can take place in structured and unstructured settings. For example, families can engage in informal debates at the dinner table. Students can participate in debates in structured classroom settings, clubs, and competitions.
At least two people with opposing views engage in the discussion. Sometimes they aim to win it. Other times, they hope to sway opinion in their favor.
Although the discussions can become heated, ideally, participants will remain cordial and civil. Plus, they will back up their opinions with facts and figures as opposed to only their emotions.
Members of the education community believe that 12 years old is a good age for students to start debating on a competitive level. They also agree that debating benefits the pupils.
Why Do Middle School Students Benefit from Debating?
Students in middle school range from ages 10 to 14. They are a step away from becoming full-fledged teenagers and high school scholars. Since high school provides an environment that develops young adults, it’s more manageable when pupils enter it with critical thinking skills and confidence.
Debate is a great way to help them gain both.
More specifically, students pick up the following abilities through debate:
- Public speaking skills
- Improves information retention
- Research abilities
- Teamwork and collaboration
Researchers estimate that 70% of the adult population fears speaking in public. The fear ranges from slight anxiety to severely paralyzing. Lack of confidence is one reason why adults have this fear. Believing that audiences won’t receive their words with praise is another.
Public speaking is another form of communication. Individuals who cannot communicate in this manner might not share important thoughts, obtain meaningful job promotions, or receive raises.
If students pick up debating skills in middle school, they can walk into their high school years and adulthood with more self-assurance. Plus, they can research, work in collaborative environments, and opine more clearly.
"Teachers who find topics that engage students can help them develop lifelong skills."
Classroom Debate Process
When teachers set aside class periods for debate assignments, they assign a topic. Then, the students receive a night or more to prepare. Teachers can assign topics such as Should schools ban math from lesson plans? Those who do not enjoy the subject might say that schools should remove it from the curriculum. However, they need to prove their opinion methodically and factually. Thus, they need to research.
Many teachers pair students. It should help them deliver a creative opinion and split up the research. So the pupils receive another taste of teamwork and collaboration.
High school is an intimidating period for many teenagers. If they enter it with confidence and the ability to speak and think, students can successfully navigate the awkward teen years and peer pressure. Then, carry it into adulthood.
Picking up the skill requires some structured experiences.
Related resource: Lincoln-Douglas Style Debate Procedure
How to Structure Classroom Debate Sessions
Schools that have 45- to 60-minute class periods can easily fit in three to four student debates per session.
Each debate requires a:
- Group that defends the resolution
- Group that opposes the resolution
- Judge panel
During the debate, the group that defends the resolution begins with two minutes on the clock. Then, the team opposing the resolution receives two minutes to present their case. Next, both teams receive another two minutes to make rebuttals and summarize their position. The team opposing the resolution starts first. The team supporting the resolution closes the debate.
When judging debates, teachers and the panel should judge the quality of the arguments. Let’s consider the topic: Are dogs better pets than cats? The topic is similar to a rhetorical question. No correct answer truly exists. However, individuals can have strong feelings about one position or the other.
The goal is to have students defend their position through facts and statistics. Then, they must deliver their findings and opinions in a clear, concise manner. Next, they must listen to the other side. Even though they might not agree, pupils can only provide rebuttals if they listen. Thus, debate improves student listening skills too.
What other topics can students debate?
Related resource: Compulsory Voting: For or Against?
Debate Topics for Middle School Students
If you’re wondering What are some debate topics for middle school? The good news is that you can keep the topics light. You might also wonder What are some good debate topics?
We can explore both.
The most debated topics of 2021 included:
- Religious freedom
- Animals rights
- Vaccine mandates
- Legalization of drugs
In many cases, the most debated topic remains gun rights.
For your classroom setting, you can pick one of the above topics. You can also pick topics that impact the students on their level.
In 2021, middle schoolers said that gaming, COVID-19, social media, and the new United States President interested them the most. They also had an interest in future technology such as the possibility of flying cars, aliens, and anime.
To make the sessions meaningful to the students, consider topics that impact them as middle schoolers such as:
- Should schools ban homework?
- Is it better to excel at sports than academics?
- Should the United States lower the voting age?
- Should schools mandate uniforms?
- Are Macs better than PCs?
- Should schools ban junk food?
- Should every student play an instrument?
After giving them time to think and research, some answers and positions that they give might surprise you. Do most students enjoy completing homework at home? Probably not. However, if they understand that it reinforces their lessons, they might accept it.
Teachers who find topics that engage students can help them develop lifelong skills.
Teachers help develop the generation of tomorrow. Incorporating debate sessions into the curriculum benefits the students who will need to communicate with their peers, think critically when making decisions, and listen to others with opposing points of view.
To stay up-to-date on trends and topics, subscribe to our newsletter designed for teachers.
From Debater To Debater
Insider knowledge to make debate more accessible
From Debater to Debater
Free toolkit to get you to the next level
Born from our coaching experience with a 50-debater middle school team, we are passing along a comprehensive toolkit for schools looking to start debate programs or bolster current ones, debaters looking to hone their skills, or parents hoping to help their kids.
In hopes of tackling diversity and inequity in debate, we provide free access to a full curriculum, drills, templates, and more.
After reflecting on the ups and downs of our own debate careers, we realized how much we have benefitted from structured lessons and an insider's point of view. From there, From Debater To Debater was born. The resources we developed take into account both our debating and judging experiences and the feedback of coaches and fellow debaters to make learning and coaching debate as easy and fun as possible. Now, the next step is to pass on these resources to the up-and-coming debaters like you.
From Debater to Debater Toolkit
This website contains everything you need to know about both middle school Public Forum and Parliamentary debate. From lessons on f ormatting arguments, refuting and rebuilding, rebuttals, weighing to drills to hone in on a skill, feel free to use these resources for debate practices.
If you have any questions, please contact us at [email protected].
Everything Parliamentary
From the rules of the game to detailed tutorials and examples, everything you need to know to up your game in Parliamentary debate
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From the rules of the game to detailed tutorials to examples, everything you need to know to up your game in Public Forum debate
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Engaging Debate Topics for Middle School Students
Updated: Jul 16
Engaging Middle Schoolers with Fun Debate Topics
Debating is an invaluable activity for middle school students, offering a wealth of benefits that extend beyond the classroom. By engaging in debates, students not only solidify their essay writing skills but also learn to develop a thesis and support it with evidence and details. Here’s why incorporating debates into the curriculum is a game-changer and some engaging topics to get started.
The Benefits of Debating for Middle Schoolers
1. enhancing essay writing skills:.
Structure and Organization : Debating requires students to clearly structure their arguments, mirroring the organization needed in essay writing. They learn to present their ideas logically and coherently.
Thesis Development : In debates, students must develop a strong thesis statement, just as they would in an essay. This skill is crucial for academic writing and critical thinking.
2. Building Critical Thinking:
Analytical Skills : Debating encourages students to analyze information, assess different viewpoints, and draw conclusions based on evidence. This sharpens their analytical skills and fosters a deeper understanding of the topics.
Evidence and Support : To win a debate, students must back up their arguments with solid evidence. This practice enhances their ability to gather, evaluate, and present supporting details effectively.
3. Improving Communication Skills:
Public Speaking : Regular participation in debates helps students become more confident and articulate speakers. They learn to present their ideas clearly and persuasively.
Active Listening : Debating also teaches students to listen actively to their opponents, understand their arguments, and respond thoughtfully.
4. Encouraging Teamwork and Collaboration:
Team Dynamics : Many debates are team-based, requiring students to collaborate with their peers, share responsibilities, and build on each other’s strengths.
16 Engaging Debate Topics for Middle School
Choosing the right debate topics is key to sparking middle schoolers' interest and encouraging meaningful discussions.
Here are 16 middle school debate topics that are both engaging and educational:
Should Schools Have Uniforms?
Should cell phones be allowed in school?
Should students be able to have a choice in extracurricular activities or should parents decide?
Should students be able to choose traditional grades versus portfolio assessment based on their learning styles?
Should students have a committee to decide what food and drinks are served in the cafeteria?
Should hats be allowed in school?
Should teachers limit the amount of homework given so students have more family and social time?
Do you think teachers should be paid on merit or experience?
Should class pets be allowed in school?
Should students be required to wear a mask if they come to school sick?
Should choir be a requirement in school?
Should school hours be shortened?
Should the school year be all year with more breaks between semesters?
Should students be required to run the mile in PE class?
Should school start times be later?
Is technology in the classroom helpful or harmful?
Debating is a dynamic and powerful educational tool for middle school students. It enhances their essay writing skills, sharpens their critical thinking, and improves their communication abilities. By incorporating engaging debate topics into the curriculum, educators can foster a more interactive and enriching learning environment. These debate topics not only prepare middle school students for academic success but also equip them with essential life skills.
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Debate Printables, How to Debate
A free unit for teaching about debates. This free debate unit has everything needs to hold a debate. Many printables and teaching activities. Classroom debate worksheets for middles grades and high school. Use these worksheet to learn how to debate and how to prepare for a debate. These worksheets support higher level thinking in the classroom. You'll find debate topics, information on how to debate and graphic organizers to help students organize their thinking around their debate topic. Help teach debating in the classroom with this free how to debate teaching unit.
All worksheets are created by experienced and qualified teachers. Send your suggestions or comments .
- Our Mission
Teaching Debate Across the Curriculum
Debating helps students strengthen their communication and objective thinking skills, and practice patience and tolerance.
Sometimes it feels like the art of debate is dying, but considering the benefits, it’s surprising that educators don’t employ the debate process more often across grade levels and content areas. Debate doesn’t just enrich content; it provides a way for students to deeply engage with what they’re learning, and they also gain profound skills. Through debate, students have the chance to do the following:
- Improve their written and oral communication skills
- Exercise their critical thinking and collaboration abilities
- Heighten their research, organization, and presentation skills as they work with team members to develop their best arguments
- Find and use their voice through public speaking
- Learn how to think objectively about an issue
- Practice tolerance, humility, and patience as they listen to the different perspectives of the opposing team, and take turns listening to each other’s arguments
Debate offers an ideal setting to instill confidence in our students so they learn how to use their voice effectively. Every subject area offers an opportunity to engage students in debate and to help us create an outlet that enables them to learn how to discuss issues in a constructive way that’s less ego driven and more about working with others to develop the reasoning behind a stance they take.
Debate can almost be considered a way to gamify learning. Students love being a part of a team and having the chance to “win” through strategy, presentation, and sound argumentation. Students don’t need to wait for the high school years to practice debating—even at the elementary level, students can practice the basic premise of debate.
Regardless of age level, it’s a matter of posing a relevant question or prompt and creating a space that challenges students to apply their learning.
Debate-Topic Ideas for All Grade Levels and Subject Areas
Throughout our curriculums, there’s often ample opportunity to generate prompts that provoke inquiry. I like giving students prompts, as it helps them to understand that statements aren’t always facts. Just because it has a period at the end doesn’t mean it’s something you shouldn’t question.
Also, it’s not always necessary to place students on the affirmative or opposing side based on their preferences; sometimes it can be an academic challenge to place them on the side they don’t agree with.
The following examples offer ideas for how to develop angles in each subject area that facilitate debate:
Literature: Help students use debate to explore societal norms, character flaws, or ethical issues. In the elementary grades, students can read Three Little Pigs vs. The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs! by A. Wolf and discuss the prompt: The big bad wolf is innocent. For middle or high schoolers reading 1984 , the prompt might be: Your privacy is protected.
Health: Have students explore the pros and cons of healthy habits on individual and societal levels. An elementary school prompt could be: Vending machines in the school cafeteria are a good idea, and in middle or high school, students could debate: There should be a law banning soda (or other foods with too much sugar).
Science: Have students apply concepts from class, like biodiversity, and relate them to current practices. Elementary students can debate: Zoos should exist. Middle and high school prompts include: Recycling is enough to reduce plastic pollution, or Mowing should be banned.
Math: Have students explore how numbers and data are used in everyday life. An elementary prompt is:Students should have to show their work to demonstrate learning. For middle and high school: Statistics are reliable.
Social studies: Have students explore perspectives on people, places, events. Elementary students might debate: Superheroes (e.g., Batman) are good citizens. In middle or high school: Textbooks accurately reflect history.
You can also run a debate that captures the broad view of your class. For instance, have students form teams around the prompt, “Students need to learn algebra” (or any other subject). You could also select a relevant current event, book, or article assignment, and provide a prompt.
Here are a couple of other general examples for debate: It’s important for students to memorize basic facts, and Homework is beneficial to students.
How to Run a Debate
Consider the age level of your students. It’s OK to modify this process. What’s important is giving the students the opportunity to work together to craft and deliver their arguments in a structured manner. Here’s a sample of how you might structure a debate.
- Introduction of the topic and teams (3 minutes).
- Arguments (3 minutes per team per round):
The claim : Have students state their position.
The data : Have students cite proof or evidence that backs their claim.
The warrant : Have students interpret how the data supports the claim.
You can have students repeat the claim-data-warrant cycle as you see fit. I recommend two claims (an opening presentation and an additional argument).
- Prepare for rebuttals (5-minute break).
- Rebuttal (3 minutes per team)—No new information should be added at this time.
- Closing statement (3 minutes per team)—This might include additional rebuttal statements.
Set some ground rules for the debate, so that students understand what it looks like to politely exchange ideas—for instance:
- Model civility.
- No ad hominem (personal) attacks.
- Listen carefully to the arguments of your opponent.
- Do not interrupt. Let the other team finish their arguments before you begin.
- Manage your emotions. Don’t let your feelings get the best of you.
- You may not agree with the stance you have to take. Try your best and be objective.
To be able to debate is a life skill. It equips us to be good citizens, to advocate for ourselves and the issues we care about, and to be effective in the workplace. Moreover, it encourages students to engage in content in a whole new way.
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It's Up for Debate
Debates are a staple of middle and high school social studies classes. But have you ever thought about using debates at the lower grades -- or in math class? Education World offers five debate strategies and extra lessons for students of all ages. Included: Debate fairy tale ethics, use four corner and inner/outer circle strategies, more.
- Wearing a helmet when riding a bike should be mandatory.
- The President of the United States is doing a good job.
- The Pledge of Allegiance should be recited in school each day.
- Beauty is only skin deep.
- Kids should be able to have TVs in their bedrooms.
All you need to have a great classroom debate is an interesting topic -- such as the ones above -- to engage students ...
Well, perhaps that point could be debated -- but theres no debating the fact that this weeks Lesson Planning article provides all the resources you need for great classroom debates. Aside from high-interest debate topics, this Education World resource provides sample debate formats, a few rules for kids to remember, a bunch of fun strategies, and a handful of great lesson ideas!
DEBATE STRATEGY LESSON PLANS This week, Education World provides five lessons that are sure to make the most of your next classroom debate. Click each of the five lesson headlines below for a complete teaching resource. (Appropriate grade levels for each lesson appear in parentheses.) Stage a Debate: A Primer for Teachers (Lincoln-Douglas Debate Format) Adapt the standard debate format plus ten strategies for engaging students in debate! (Grades 3-12) Role Play Debate Students assume the roles of various stakeholders in debates on issues of high interest. (Grades 3-12) Using Fairy Tales to Debate Ethics Three fairy tales challenge students to think about honesty, right and wrong, and other questions of ethics. (Grades K-8) Four Corners Debate A debate strategy gets kids thinking and moving. Debate topics included for all grades. (Grades K-12) Inner Circle, Outer Circle Debate Strategy The inner/outer circle debate strategy emphasizes listening to others views and writing an opinion essay. (Grades 3-12) EW Lesson Plans EW Professional DevelopmentEw worksheets. 
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125 Winning Debate Topics for Middle School Students. Teach students to make effective arguments. By Jill Staake, B.S., Secondary ELA Education. Sep 6, 2023. When students learn to debate, they gain valuable life skills. Debates teach kids to research their topic, make informed choices, and argue effectively using facts instead of emotion.
22 Debate Activities For Middle School: Tips, Topics, Discussions, And Exploration. January 20, 2024 // by Josilyn Markel. Debate is an activity that is perfect for middle school students because it combines critical thinking, communication skills, and creative skills. The debate can be a great way to explore a diversity of opinions, and it can ...
Choose a topic that has strong arguments on both sides. Consider the age-appropriateness of the topic for middle school students. Here is a list of 110 debate topics that are categorized by subject area and themes that are relevant to middle school students, such as social justice, technology, or the environment.
Are you looking for strong debate topics for middle school? Crush your next debate with over fifty options ready to help you succeed here.
April 21, 2024. 125 Winning Debate Topics for Middle School Students. Teach students to make effective arguments. The post 125 Winning Debate Topics for Middle School Students appeared first on We Are Teachers. When students learn to debate, they gain valuable life skills. Debates teach kids to research their topic, make informed choices, and ...
Our debate topics for middle school students are an engaging way to spark critical thinking, foster respectful dialogue, and nurture a passion for learning. Yes! Wonderfully, debating can help your middle schoolers develop research and communication skills - and it can help them practice their writing skill development as they prep for the ...
Here are 22 engaging debate activities to inspire your middle school students. 1. Four Corners: Divide the classroom into four corners numbered one through four. Assign a statement or issue and have each student pick a corner representing their stance: strongly agree, agree, disagree, or strongly disagree. 2.
Debate Topics for Grades 6 Through 9. The following is a list of 62 topics that would be appropriate for use in middle school classrooms. As you read through these topics, you will see that some are more appropriate for specific curricula and others are suitable for general studies. Each item is listed as a proposition.
With this Social Studies Debate Kit from Junior Scholastic, your students will learn the essential critical-thinking and communication skills needed to master the art of debating. Key Takeaways: For middle school students, acquiring the critical-thinking and communication skills they need to evaluate both sides of a debate and write persuasive ...
Home / Debate / 50 Debate Topics For Middle School Students. Debates are a fantastic way to teach a number of skills to middle school students. They help students to develop the ability to research a topic, work as a team, practice public speaking, and improve their critical thinking skills. For teachers, however, it can be challenging to come ...
Nelson Mandela. The anti-apartheid leader and 1993 Nobel Peace Prize winner used his skills at debating, public speaking, and speech writing to challenge—and change—South Africa's system of oppression. As the president of South Africa, Mandela often encouraged debate as essential to the democratic process.
The debate should focus on the topic at hand and never on the people on the debate team. Make sure to build consequences into the debate rubric. Holding debates in middle school classes can be quite effective, but they provide both challenges and benefits to students.
The most debated topics of 2021 included: Gun rights. Religious freedom. Animals rights. Vaccine mandates. Abortion. Legalization of drugs. In many cases, the most debated topic remains gun rights. For your classroom setting, you can pick one of the above topics.
8) Balloon Debate. Have four to six student volunteers come to the front of the class. Each one should choose a person that they will play during this game. You may want to restrict them using a theme, e.g. 'famous people from history' or 'characters from Harry Potter.
This website contains everything you need to know about both middle school Public Forum and Parliamentary debate. From lessons on f ormatting arguments, refuting and rebuilding, rebuttals, weighing to drills to hone in on a skill, feel free to use these resources for debate practices.. If you have any questions, please contact us at [email protected].
Engaging Middle Schoolers with Fun Debate TopicsDebating is an invaluable activity for middle school students, offering a wealth of benefits that extend beyond the classroom. By engaging in debates, students not only solidify their essay writing skills but also learn to develop a thesis and support it with evidence and details. Here's why incorporating debates into the curriculum is a game ...
Here are Melissa's simple steps for using this debate-style discussion strategy in your classroom: Give students a thought-provoking or humorous prompt. Play music as students think, research, jot notes, and (if possible) walk around the room. Stop the music and have students get into groups of two or three.
These worksheets support higher level thinking in the classroom. You'll find debate topics, information on how to debate and graphic organizers to help students organize their thinking around their debate topic. Help teach debating in the classroom with this free how to debate teaching unit. A free debate printable unit for the classroom.
Debate can almost be considered a way to gamify learning. Students love being a part of a team and having the chance to "win" through strategy, presentation, and sound argumentation. Students don't need to wait for the high school years to practice debating—even at the elementary level, students can practice the basic premise of debate.
It's Up for Debate. Debates are a staple of middle and high school social studies classes. But have you ever thought about using debates at the lower grades -- or in math class? Education World offers five debate strategies and extra lessons for students of all ages. Included: Debate fairy tale ethics, use four corner and inner/outer circle ...
to take their own debate more seriously!) Alternatively you could 'book' a big space in the school and invite another class to be the Floor. The Debate The debate will consist of four rounds. The suggested numbers of team members for each round should be
Debate camps. During the summer, we host a series of in-person and online five-day camps, in which students have the opportunity to build their debate skills through a series of fun activities, drills, practice debates, and personalized coach feedback. Learn more.
For middle school students, debate topics may include the abolishment of statewide testing or whether school uniforms should be required. ... The notes from both rounds may be used in a follow-up classroom discussion and/or as an editorial writing assignment for students to express their positions on the issue at hand. Cite this Article Format.
To register your classroom or school for Teach to Remember 9/11. Registration will include the following LIVE features: Welcome and Introduction 9:35 AM; Moment of Remembrance 9:45 AM - 10:30 AM; Q&A with Rangers 1:00 PM - 1:30 PM & 3:00 PM - 3:30 PM; In addition, you will have access to several videos to aid in your 9/11 and Flight 93 curriculum.
South Carolina school district restricts Holocaust graphic novel for middle-graders, citing new state law A German Jewish community shadowed by scandal and an uncertain future welcomes a moment to ...