We should be so thankful that we live in a democracy where freedom of speech and human rights are respected. There have been a number of events around the world in the last couple of years which have reminded me this is not the case everywhere. This makes me sad and angry. Let's never forget those who live under tyranny. At the same time, let's not forget to celebrate the democracy and freedom of speech we are lucky to have. Debate is an essential tool for developing and maintaining democracy and open society. It is a way for those who hold opposing views to discuss controversial issues without descending to insult, emotional appeal or personal bias. Debate often doesn't end in agreement, but rather allows for a robust analysis of the question at hand.

"It is better to debate a question without settling it, than to settle a question without debating it" Joseph Joubert

"Honest disagreement is often a good sign of progress." Mahatma Ghandi

Debate offers important and lasting benefits for individuals, for societies and for the global community as a whole. It teaches skills that serve individuals in school, in the workplace, and in fulfilling their responsibilities as citizens. From a language learning perspective, debate is an excellent, enjoyable way to develop fluency in both speaking and listening. 

Try My Debate Lesson

A fun class guaranteed to get you thinking and talking!
No preparation required.
Great practice for speaking tests like IELTS

Stating preferences and making choices
Giving opinions, supporting an opinion and stating examples
Listening and responding to opposing opinions
Applying appropriate language for agreeing and disagreeing

Preferences - "Which is healthier, Tea or coffee?")
Debates - "Should Japan alter the age of adulthood from 20 to 18?"
Dilemmas - "Someone falls asleep on your shoulder on the train home. What do you do?"

Suitable for Pre-intermediate/Intermediate and beyond.

Greg T