10. Build your Argument

Objectives

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By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:

• Understand what an argument is and why it is the building block of debating.
  
• Identify and create the four main components of a strong argument

0–5 min – Introduction

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• Ask students: “What makes an argument convincing?”
• Explain: In debate, an argument is not just an opinion – it must be built clearly and logically.

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5–15 min – Mini Lecture

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Present the four parts of an argument, with simple examples.

1. Thesis (Claim):
   
   • The main point you're making.
     
   • Example: “Homework should be limited to 30 minutes per day.”
     
     
2. Explanation:
   
   • Why is this point valid or important? Explain your thinking.
     
   • Example: “Too much homework leads to stress and less time for rest or hobbies.”
     
     
3. Evidence (Proof):
   
   • Facts, examples, expert opinion, logical reasoning.
     
   • Example: “A 2023 study from the WHO shows that teens with over 1 hour of homework daily report higher stress levels.”
     
     
4. Link to the Motion:
   
   • Connect your argument to the motion to show relevance.
     
   • Example: “This supports the motion because it shows that limiting homework improves student well-being.”
     
     

Show a full example on the board and underline each part.

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15–30 min – Group Exercise: Build an Argument

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• Divide students into small groups (2–4).
  
• Give each group a simple motion (e.g. “This House would ban homework.” or “This House would lower the voting age.”).
  
• Task: Build one strong argument using the four-part structure. Use the worksheet for support.
  
• Encourage creativity, but check for clarity and relevance.
  
  

30–40 min – Group Sharing

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• Each group reads or presents their argument.
  
• Give short feedback: Is the explanation clear? Is the evidence strong? Does it link to the motion?
  
  

40–45 min – Wrap-up

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• Quick review: Ask students to name the four parts aloud.
  
• Optional exit ticket:
  “Write one sentence for each part of an argument on the topic: ‘This House would ban fast food in schools.’”‍

Assessment

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• Formative: Observe group work and listen to presentations.
• Optional written task (exit ticket).
• Peer feedback during presentations (e.g. “What was strongest in this argument?”)

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Tips and tricks

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• Use real-life topics: It helps students generate examples and relate to the motion.
• Model with color or structure: Use different colors or labels for each argument part.
• Scaffold weaker students: Provide sentence starters for each part (e.g. “One reason is…” or “This matters because…”).
• Repeat the structure often: Encourage students to always ask: “What’s my point? Why? Can I prove it? How does it support the motion?”

Appendix

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Debate Worksheet: Build Your Argument

🎯 Motion / Debate Topic:

1. THESIS (Claim)

👉 What is your main point or idea?

📝 _________________________________________________________
📝 _________________________________________________________

2. EXPLANATION

👉 Why is your point true or important? Explain it clearly.

📝 _________________________________________________________
📝 _________________________________________________________
📝 _________________________________________________________

3. EVIDENCE (Proof)

👉 What example, data, or logic supports your point?

📝 _________________________________________________________
📝 _________________________________________________________
📝 _________________________________________________________

4. LINK TO THE MOTION

👉 How does this help your side win the debate?

📝 _________________________________________________________
📝 _________________________________________________________
📝 _________________________________________________________

✅ Final Argument – Put it all together (optional)

Use your notes above to write your full argument in one paragraph.
📝 _________________________________________________________
📝 _________________________________________________________
📝 _________________________________________________________
📝 _________________________________________________________
📝 _________________________________________________________