Did Ya Notice All the Things You Can Debate?

A debate is when at least two people discuss a topic in front of an audience, and they have different points of view. They try to convince the audience that their opinion is best. It is important to know how to disagree respectfully and state your opinion based on facts. For example, one day a stapler debated a pile of paper clips.

The moderator (the person making sure everything goes smoothly) said, “Paper clips, you won the coin toss so you may begin.” “First,” said the head paper clip, “let me thank my opponent for being here tonight.  Now I am sure, in the course of everyone’s preparation, numerous of my brothers and sisters have been clipped to your papers. We are small, we are mighty; you can keep us in your drawer or even in your pocket.  We are always where you need us.”  And it did appear that the paperclips were shining ever more brightly on their table.

The stapler began to staple piles of paper that he had set beneath the table.  “Staple, staple, staple.” he sang as he worked.  “What could be more satisfying that the sound of the stapler?!  Everything is tied together so securely and neatly!  There are no little clips to fall off.  When I staple, the job is done! My job is done cleanly, neatly, and without drawers and cups full of little clips.” The stapler stood on his end and looked sincerely at the audience.  “Folks,” he said, “let’s keep our country neat and clean.  Let’s agree here and now to utilize only the mighty stapler.

The moderator thanked the paper clips and the stapler for their great debate. Who would you vote for?

CONVERSATION-STARTERS

For Elementary Schoolers

Having silly debates is a great learning experience, and great fun.  This would work especially well during election time, when the kids can watch politicians debate on TV.  Have the kids make lists of what their debate topics could be.  Baseball vs. soccer?   Flip-flops vs. sneakers?  Ice cream vs. cupcakes?  Remind them to be silly - the whole family can get into this!

For 2-5 year olds:

Ask each person what color they like best? Why? What flavor ice cream? Why? What do they like best for breakfast? Why? What is their favorite food? Why? What do they like to play outside? Why? It is a great skill to have them learn to explain their answer…no matter how much sense it makes or doesn’t make!