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ESL Lesson PlansESL Lesson Plans for Debates

ESL Lesson Plans for Debates

Get students talking! These debate lesson plans engage learners in thoughtful discussions, helping them practice persuasive language, critical thinking, and argumentation skills. Perfect for building fluency and confidence in English.

B2-C1
Is Virtual Reality Better than Reality?

This ESL lesson plan helps students build speaking and critical thinking skills on the topic of virtual reality. Designed for B2-C1 level learners, this interactive, 60-minute lesson guides students through reading different perspectives, practicing useful debate phrases, and collaborating in small groups to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of VR. Exercises include unscrambling debate sentences and participating in a structured group debate, providing a well-rounded opportunity to practice speaking skills while expressing opinions on a topical issue.

B2
Should College Education Be Free for All Students?

This lesson plan is designed for B2-level teens. It features group activities that target speaking and reading skills, including debate preparation, vocabulary practice, and a true/false exercise based on an article. Students will explore both sides of the debate while developing their argumentation and presentation skills.

C1-C2
Vivisection Debate

This ESL lesson plan engages students in a 60-min group discussion and debate on vivisection and animal testing. Designed for C1-C2 level learners, the lesson includes listening and speaking exercises focusing on ethical considerations, scientific advancements, and alternative methods. Students will analyze opinions, answer comprehension questions, and participate in a structured debate, building critical discussion and argumentation skills.

B2
Mini-Debate on AI Regulation

This engaging ESL lesson plan is designed for B2-level learners, focusing on the hot topic: Should AI development be regulated to prevent job loss? The lesson targets essential skills, including listening, speaking, and reading. Students will watch a video on job risks, read about the potential benefits of AI, and participate in a lively group debate. With structured exercises like unscrambling useful phrases and crafting arguments, this lesson encourages critical thinking and effective communication.

B1
Study Strategies: Solo vs. Group Learning

This ESL lesson plan explores the pros and cons of studying alone versus in a group for B1 teens and adults in a 60-minute session. Students will discuss effective study methods, watch a video to enhance listening comprehension, and engage in vocabulary exercises. This lesson encourages critical thinking on individual and group study preferences, focusing on listening and speaking skills through dynamic debates and discussions.

A2
Planning Mom's Birthday

This ESL lesson plan helps teens practice speaking skills in a 45-minute group session by discussing and comparing ideas for a special birthday celebration. Through engaging scenarios and debate activities, students at A2 level will explore how to compare and contrast options to make thoughtful decisions using the comparative degree. The lesson includes group discussions, grammar rules for comparing ideas, and a fun debate to encourage students to collaborate and communicate effectively.