Debate with 7-9 year olds is joyful chaos, and that is exactly the point. These 75 motions are simple enough for A2 children to understand instantly: 'Ice cream is better than cake,' 'Dogs are better pets than cats,' 'Rain is better than sunshine.' The language required is basic, the opinions are strong, and the energy is enormous. When children shout 'No! Cats are better because they are soft!' they are forming opinions, giving reasons, and speaking English, all at once.
At this age, debate is more about participation than argumentation. The fact that children are willing to speak English enthusiastically is the win. The team format provides safety in numbers, and the simple motions ensure no child is excluded by language complexity.
Debate as organised fun
Keep it extremely short: 15-20 seconds per speaker. Teams of 3-4 children prepare for 1-2 minutes. The teacher may need to help teams form their arguments during preparation. Each team gets one chance to speak, then move to a new motion. Aim for 4-5 motions in a 10-minute session.
Speaking through play
Make it physical: children stand for their team, sit when finished. Use thumbs up and thumbs down for voting. Add a 'point' for each reason given. The game-like elements keep young learners engaged and make debate feel like play rather than work.
Frequently Asked Questions
In a simplified, playful format, yes. The motions are simple preferences (ice cream vs cake), speeches are 15-20 seconds, and the format feels more like a game than a formal debate. Children love it.
Yes. Children practise forming opinions in English, giving reasons with 'because,' and speaking to a group. These are foundational speaking skills. The debate format also develops listening, turn-taking, and teamwork.
Some excitement is the goal. Keep the structure clear (one team speaks at a time, timer runs, then switch) and channel the energy rather than suppressing it. A noisy debate where everyone is speaking English is a successful activity.