Creative Writing - Senior Secondary 1 - Debates - Definition and Topic Selection

SUBJECT: CREATIVE WRITING

TERM: 2^ND TERM

WEEK: 1

CLASS: Senior Secondary School 1
AGE: 15 years
DURATION: 2 periods of 40 mins each
DATE:
TOPIC: Debates – Definition and Topic Selection
CONTENT:

1. Definition of a Debate
2. Sample Topics for Debate
   • “Science has done more harm than good to Nigerian society.”
   • “A farmer is better than a teacher in our society.”
   • “Boarding school is better than a day school.”

SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES: By the end of the lesson, learners should be able to:

• Define what a debate is.
• Identify the structure of a debate.
• Understand the format of arguing for and against a topic.

INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNIQUES: Discussion, Group Activities, Debating.
INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS: Whiteboard, Markers, Handouts with Debate Topics.
INSTRUCTIONAL PROCEDURES:

PERIOD 1: Introduction to Debates

1. Introduction:
   • The teacher defines a debate and its purpose.
   • Explanation of the benefits of debates in developing reasoning and public speaking skills.
   • Briefly introduce the selected topics for debate.
2. Main Activity:
   • The teacher divides the class into two groups and assigns each group a topic to debate.
   • Each group prepares arguments for and against the topic, using facts and logical reasoning.
   • Teacher provides guidance on how to structure debate points.
3. Evaluation:
   • Groups take turns debating their topic.
   • The teacher evaluates the strength of their arguments, evidence, and speaking skills.

PERIOD 2: Debate Practice

1. Group Work:
   • Each group presents their arguments for and against the topic.
   • After the debate, the teacher provides feedback on the performance, encouraging active participation and critical thinking.
2. Conclusion:
   • Recap of what makes a strong debate, including clear structure, strong arguments, and rebuttals.
   • Learners are asked to write down points for a topic they will debate in the next class.

EVALUATION:

• Learners will define a debate and give examples of topics.
• Active participation in debates will be assessed.

CLASS-WORK:

• Learners to write a paragraph proposing their stance on the topic “Science has done more harm than good to Nigerian society.”

ASSIGNMENT:

Learners to choose a topic for their next debate and write a list of supporting and opposing points.