Practice Topics
Practice thinking from both sides.
Use these age-friendly debate topics to practice building arguments, listening carefully, and responding respectfully.
Elementary School Topics
Simple topics that help younger students practice opinions, reasons, and respectful listening.
Should students have homework every day?
Should every classroom have a class pet?
Should recess be longer?
Should students choose their own seats?
Should kids read books every day?
Should schools have more art and music time?
Middle School Topics
Topics that help students practice evidence, examples, and comparing both sides of an issue.
Should school start later in the morning?
Should students be allowed to use phones at school?
Should school uniforms be required?
Should every student learn public speaking?
Should students have more outdoor learning time?
Should every school have a debate club?
High School Topics
More advanced topics that help students practice research, policy thinking, and weighing impacts.
Should community service be required for graduation?
Should standardized testing play a smaller role in education?
Should social media platforms have stronger rules for young users?
Should schools require financial literacy classes?
Should public transportation be free for students?
Should artificial intelligence tools be allowed in schools?
How to practice a topic
- Pick one topic.
- Write one argument for the topic.
- Write one argument against the topic.
- Add one example or piece of evidence to each side.
- Practice explaining both sides clearly and respectfully.