Making Lessons Fun: Classroom Debates on Controversial Topics

July 27, 2025 / Oskar Cymerman

Classroom Debates are Fun, engaging, and packed with student learning

Let's own it, my teacher brethren. There are times during the school year when we’re less than one-hundred percent and we just want our students to sit down, shut up, and listen. But while this elusive dream sounds serene and exactly what the migraine doctor ordered, the engaged classroom is where students are so thoroughly locked in, they behave like dogs with new squeaky toys. They're so captivated by the learning that they forget they possess opposable thumbs and the dopamine-driven urge to use them to Clash or Brawl.

And while lecturing might achieve our coveted silence, actual engagement often requires letting them talk; argue even. Yes, I'm talking about debates, the intellectual sparring sessions not just for the nerd at heart, but your secret weapon against the dreaded "blank stare" and the even more annoying "I'm done, can I be on my phone now?" questions.

If setting up a successful, intellectually stimulating debate conjures images of trying to lead a herd of hyper baboons through a laser maze, check out this surprisingly simple 3-day structure you can use to transform your classroom into an "Intellectual Thunderdome" without the fear of flying objects (unless you’re debating history of hot air ballooning).

Picture critical thinking, communication, research skills, public speaking, and evidence-supported persuasion all happening while students are too busy trying to "win" to realize they're actually learning. So Jedi of you….

Day 1: Lay the Foundation & Unleash the Research Beasts

Drop a controversial topic into their laps and watch them scramble for facts, like desperate squirrels for the last acorn before ice age buries all.

1. Introduce the Hot Topic

Pick a subject so inherently divisive, it practically begs for arguments. For instance, "What is the absolute best, most perfect, no-other-solution-compares answer for climate change?" is pure gold. Frame it as a grand, global challenge that only they can solve with superior intellect.

2. Explain the "Thunderdome" Rules (Gently, at First!)

Briefly outline that this isn't about whose feelings are hurt, but about whose facts are bigger and better. Emphasize "respect" (which they'll try to adhere to, bless their hearts), "active listening" (a skill rarely seen outside of professional therapy sessions), and the thrilling, primal urge to intellectually dominate their peers (it’s evolutionary! Darwin).

3. Assign Teams & Roles

Divide your class into teams (4-8 per side, depending on your school district’s ineptitude in lowering classroom sizes). Give each team a distinct "stance" or "solution" to champion – even if it's one you know they secretly despise. Assign roles within each team, individual or in pairs (e.g., Lead Investigator, Argument Architect, Rebuttal Assassin – yes, actual titles!). This way everyone has a job and no one can hide in the shadow of their phone.

4. Kick Off Research (and the Long Sighs)

Provide a "Research Starter Pack" – a curated list of reputable sources (think academic institutions, government agencies, established scientific bodies – not just random TikToks or Uncle Drew's Facebook rants). Give them clear guidelines on what kind of evidence they need: cold, hard data, expert opinions, feasibility studies, pros/cons. This will likely consume the remainder of Day 1 and either some homework or next day time. Prepare for the inevitable questions like, "Do I have to read all of it?"

Day 2: Forge Arguments & Sharpen the Swords of Truth

Now that your intellectual squirrels have gathered some acorns, Day 2 is dedicated to turning those scattered nuts (or facts) into a well-oiled, argument-spewing machine.

1. Team Collaboration Power Hour (or Two)

Give teams dedicated time to synthesize their research. This is where the Lead Investigator dumps their findings, and the Argument Architect tries to make sense of it all, structuring an opening statement that doesn't sound like a caffeine-fueled rave.

2. Crafting the Core Arguments (and Avoiding Logical Fallacies)

Guide teams to develop 2-3 main arguments that powerfully support their assigned stance. For each, they need strong, evidence-based points. Encourage them to think about why their solution is the undisputed champion of all solutions.

3. Anticipate the Blows (Rebuttal Prep - The Fun Part!)

This is where the real competition happens. Have each team brainstorm what the other teams might argue. What are the gaping holes in their own brilliant solution? What unexpected strengths might the opposition possess? This foresight allows the Rebuttal Assassin to prepare devastating counter-arguments that have opponents whimper for mercy…. or at least blush.

4. Practice, Practice, Practice (Because Winging It Rarely Works)

If time allows (and you have the patience), encourage teams to practice their opening statements and initial rebuttals. Running through it helps them refine their language, identify awkward pauses, and get comfortable speaking under the terrifying gaze of their peers. Plus, it's a great way to use up that extra class time.

Day 3: Unleash The Thunderdome

The moment of truth has arrived! May their arguments be strong and their Google slides minimally embarrassing!

1. Quick Rules Review (Just in Case)

Before the first gavel (or ruler) falls, quickly remind everyone of the debate decorum: no personal attacks (you know who you are), stick to facts (it's hard, I know), respect time limits (or face my wrath), and listen actively (what the frick is that?).

2. Run the Debate

Follow a structured debate format (e.g., opening statements, alternating rebuttals/cross-examinations, closing statements). You'll serve as the stern, impartial moderator, keeping time and ensuring fair play. Witness the magic as students passionately (and hopefully factually) defend their positions. You'll be amazed at the sophisticated arguments they can construct when their pride is on the line.

3. Debrief & Reflect (The "Learning" Part)

After the intellectual dust settles, bring everyone back together. Ask:

What did you learn about the complexity of the topic?
Did your understanding of any solution actually change? (Don't worry, I won't tell anyone you admitted to being swayed by logic.)
What was challenging about defending a position you might not personally agree with?"

This is where the true learning solidifies, as they move from competitive yelling to actual comprehension. Venisti. Vidisti. Vicisti. Yes, you did.

Implementing a 3-day debate lesson might require a bit more upfront planning and a stronger than usual cup of coffee, but the payoff in student engagement, critical thinking, and genuine (and performative) learning is immense. So, choose your topic, assign your teams, and prepare to be impressed by the intellectual prowess and competitive spirit of your students. They might just surprise themselves and you! Especially you.

Thanks for reading my thoughts! I hope they help you make learning more fun for you and your students. Check out my shop if you need fun science teaching lessons or classroom swag. I try to keep the prices decent, but if you cannot spare the $, please email me and I’ll give you whatever you need for free.