Debating for Fun is a challenge that provides the motivation children need to move past their fears about research and writing.  Many children love having their say about things, being in the spotlight.  Why not use this natural enthusiasm to build thinking and writing skills?

If a full debate seems too daunting, why not start with panels on a topic of interest to children.  What are some local issues that students have ideas about?  In Western Australia earlier this year, a man camped in a tree for weeks, trying to save it from being cut down.  What are the stories in your community that might capture children’s imaginations?

The whole class can start with a brainstorm, dividing the issues into pro and con and neutral.  Be sure that you have people recording and capturing all these great ideas.  For a team of 6-8 children, each child takes one idea, finds out more, writes a short talk with an introduction, his or her idea and a conclusion.  The “panel” of experts does their presentations to the whole class.

Children with writing issues could possible just note dot points, key words to help them remember their talk.  They soon begin writing more, they can’t help themselves!  Palm card are also a great help.  Limit the number of words on one card.  Key words, written boldly- different colours can be used.  Drawings or symbols can be used as well.  I once had a very quiet child (that liked to draw) start by making signs.  It wasn’t long before she was saying her points alongside everyone else.

After the panel presentation, everyone can discuss which points seemed most convincing and why.  The group might “vote” on the issue.  This kind of practice is bound to help everyone improve on their exposition writing. …..even if you don’t use the big word.