Debating in an ESL class can be a fun and exciting way to encourage interaction in class. It also helps with the development of speaking skills. With good moderating skills, your debate will be a success. Moreover, it will be appreciated by students.
As a TEFL educator, you should always allow students to practice their oral communication skills. Undoubtedly, traditional classroom activities like vocabulary drills are necessary for the development of students. However, they can be unengaging at times.
Besides improving their speaking skills, you can organize debates to improve their critical thinking and persuasion abilities. They also encourage non-native English speakers to listen carefully to the counterpoints made by opponents.
Moreover, students can also improve their reading skills during research undertaken for a debate. Here are some practical ways to unlock the potential of the ESL class with debates.
Reasons Why Debate is Good for Practicing English Speaking Skills
A debate is a type of competition in which two opposing teams make speeches on a specific topic. A debate in an ESL class can be based on a specific topic that has been taught recently. Therefore, by organizing debates, you can strengthen the language skills of your students.
As a TEFL-certified teacher, your primary role should be coordinating the whole process. It will allow the students to feel independent and comfortable with the process. Debates can help your students develop core skills by:
- Refining the analytical thinking skills of the class
- Enhancing teamwork and collaboration
- Helping students to fine-tune their thought process
- Increasing the ability of the students to retain information
Types of Language Skills Improved During a Debate
One of the apparent benefits of introducing debates in an ESL class is to improve the speaking skills of the students. Students learn how to improve oral communication skills by using proper phrases. Moreover, your class learns how to use argumentative language during conflicts.
Team members will find that they cannot persuade the judges with simple phrases. Besides argumentative language, one can optimize their listening skills during a debate. Team members learn to listen to communicate and present their points effectively. In debates, every step of the process encourages students to evolve as critical thinkers. Students learn how to pull points logically and express their ideas.
Steps to Make Debates Engaging for Students
Debating is a fun and engaging activity that can help students to develop their confidence and improve social skills. It is an ideal opportunity for them to share their thoughts and engage others in a respectful manner. Here are the steps to make debates engaging for students in an ESL class.
Always Make the Topic Interesting
To make the overall process enjoyable, you should choose topics that intrigue your students. It is better to select a topic that influences their lives. For instance, you can draw upon their shared experiences in everyday life to create exciting topics.
TEFL-certified teachers should also be aware of the cultural differences in their classes. Therefore, don’t let students debate on a topic that offends anyone. Try to select a topic that generates a lot of ideas.
Keep the Structure of the Debate Simple
Try to keep the structure of the debate simple to avoid complications. The ultimate aim of the debate is to improve the speaking skills of your students. Structure the debate in a manner that each participant gets enough time to present their arguments. Ensure that there is a preparation stage before the performance stage. The preparatory stages can get shorter with the conclusion of the debate.
Debate Topics for A1-A2 Younger Students- Things to Know
The younger students in an ESL class can be easily motivated for debates. But ensure that you keep some pictures to stimulate discussions. The best way to organize debates for younger students is to search for school-related topics.
For instance, you can create debate topics based on the design of the building. It may also be interesting to get their point of view on what makes a good student. It is not necessary to provide severe topics to the students. Even with less formal topics, students can practice their critical thinking skills.
For B1-B2 Teenage and Older Students
For older students, it is ideal to select complex debate topics. Choose topics that require a bit of research and critical thinking. It is a good idea to encourage students to take an interest in current affairs and news. You can also select topics based on teenage development.
Selection of Topics for C1-C2 Adults and Older Teenagers
In an ESL class, the older teens and adults can discuss any subject with more maturity and nuance. You can ask these students to debate on more ethical and abstract topics. Select topics that require a great deal of research and brainstorming.
Debating is an effective way for non-native English speakers to practice their oral communication skills. When you become a TEFL teacher with TEFL-TESOL-Certification.com, these strategies will help you immensely. With debate sessions, you can make the overall activity rewarding for your students.
