B2 debate motions can and should be challenging. At this level, students have the language to engage with abstract concepts, evaluate evidence, and construct multi-step arguments. These 75 motions cover ethics, policy, technology, social justice, and culture, presenting genuine dilemmas where both sides have defensible positions. Motions like 'Privacy is more important than security' and 'Universities should be free for everyone' require students to think critically and argue systematically.
The language of debate at B2 includes discourse markers, hedging, and concession structures that distinguish fluent argumentation from a list of opinions. When students learn to say 'While I acknowledge that..., the evidence suggests...' instead of 'I think... because...', they are developing the register flexibility that defines upper-intermediate proficiency.
Structuring B2 debates for maximum learning
At B2, increase speech times to 2-3 minutes and add a rebuttal round where each side responds to the other's arguments. This forces active listening and spontaneous response, which are the hardest speaking skills to develop. Give 3 minutes of preparation time per round. In YapYapGo, the prep time toggle adds a countdown before each speech automatically.
Debate as exam preparation
Debate skills transfer directly to exam performance at B2 and above. Cambridge First Speaking Part 3 requires collaborative discussion and negotiation. IELTS Speaking Part 3 requires defending and developing positions under time pressure. Both reward the ability to structure an argument, acknowledge opposing views, and use a range of discourse markers.
Frequently Asked Questions
B1 motions focus on concrete, everyday dilemmas. B2 motions involve abstract concepts, policy questions, and ethical trade-offs. A B1 motion might say 'Homework should be banned.' A B2 motion says 'Privacy is more important than security.' B2 motions assume students can handle ambiguity and nuance.
Yes. YapYapGo lets teachers type custom motions for any debate session. Premium users also have access to AI-generated motions that are graded to the age and level of the class.
Debate mode is part of YapYapGo Basic, starting at $3/month or $30/year. It includes 75 motions per age and level combination, colour-coded teams, a built-in speech timer, and round tracking.