Mastering Debate: Should Corporal Punishment Be Banned in Schools? Composition English Grammar Primary 5 First Term Lesson Notes Week 10

Composition English Grammar Primary 5 First Term Lesson Notes Week 10

Subject: English Composition
Class: Primary 5
Term: First Term
Week: 10
Age: 9-10 years
Topic: Debate: “Corporal Punishment Should Not Be Enforced in Schools”
Sub-topic: Characteristics of a Debate
Duration: 60 minutes

Behavioural Objectives

By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:

1. Describe the characteristics of a debate.
2. Explain the registers (language and tone) used in debates.
3. Demonstrate an understanding of debate procedures.

Keywords

• Debate
• Characteristics
• Registers
• Procedure
• Argument

Set Induction

• Show video clips of live debate competitions to introduce the concept of debate. Discuss the purpose of debates and their structure.

Entry Behaviour

• Pupils are familiar with basic argumentation and group discussions.

Learning Resources and Materials

• Video clips of live debates
• Whiteboard and markers

Building Background/Connection to Prior Knowledge

• Pupils have experience with group discussions and presenting their ideas but may need guidance on formal debate procedures.

Embedded Core Skills

• Critical thinking
• Public speaking
• Argumentation

Learning Materials

• Debate video clips
• Debate outline and guidelines

Reference Books

• Lagos State Scheme of Work
• Primary 5 English Language Textbook

Instructional Materials

• Projector or screen for video clips
• Whiteboard and markers

Content

Characteristics of a Debate:

1. Opening Statements: Each side presents their main arguments.
2. Rebuttals: Each side responds to the opposing side’s arguments.
3. Closing Statements: Summarize and reinforce main points.
4. Moderation: A neutral person guides the discussion and ensures rules are followed.

Registers of Debate:

1. Formal Language: Use of formal tone and vocabulary.
2. Structured Arguments: Clearly organized points.
3. Evidence-Based: Use of facts and evidence to support arguments.
4. Respectful Tone: Addressing opponents politely, even in disagreement.

Debate Procedure:

1. Introduction: State the topic and divide the class into pro and con groups.
2. Preparation: Groups prepare their arguments.
3. Debate: Each group presents their arguments, followed by rebuttals.
4. Conclusion: Summarize arguments and present closing statements.

Evaluation

1. What are the main components of a debate?
   a) Opening statements, closing statements
   b) Opening statements, rebuttals, closing statements, moderation
   c) Rebuttals, opening statements
   d) Arguments, evidence
2. What does “formal language” in a debate refer to?
   a) Casual speech
   b) Informal expressions
   c) Structured and respectful tone
   d) Colloquial language
3. What is the purpose of rebuttals in a debate?
   a) To summarize points
   b) To respond to opposing arguments
   c) To make opening statements
   d) To present evidence
4. Who moderates a debate?
   a) A participant
   b) The teacher
   c) A neutral person
   d) The audience
5. What should closing statements in a debate include?
   a) New arguments
   b) Detailed rebuttals
   c) Summary and reinforcement of main points
   d) Random facts
6. In debate, how should evidence be used?
   a) To support arguments
   b) To distract opponents
   c) To confuse the audience
   d) To entertain
7. What does “respectful tone” mean in a debate?
   a) Being casual
   b) Being confrontational
   c) Addressing opponents politely
   d) Ignoring the opponent
8. What is the first step in a debate procedure?
   a) Rebuttals
   b) Introduction of the topic
   c) Closing statements
   d) Summarizing arguments
9. Why is moderation important in a debate?
   a) To allow one side to dominate
   b) To ensure fairness and adherence to rules
   c) To limit speaking time
   d) To judge the arguments
10. What should groups do before the debate begins?
    a) Make closing statements
    b) Prepare their arguments
    c) Conduct rebuttals
    d) Introduce the topic

Class Activity Discussion

1. Q: What are the essential elements of a debate?
   A: Opening statements, rebuttals, closing statements, and moderation.
2. Q: How can you use formal language effectively in a debate?
   A: By using structured and respectful vocabulary and tone.
3. Q: Why is it important to prepare arguments before a debate?
   A: To present clear and well-supported points during the debate.
4. Q: What role does the moderator play in a debate?
   A: To guide the discussion and ensure that rules are followed.
5. Q: How should rebuttals be structured?
   A: They should address and counter opposing arguments with evidence and logic.
6. Q: What should be included in opening statements?
   A: Main arguments and points that will be discussed.
7. Q: Why is it important to have a respectful tone in a debate?
   A: To maintain a professional atmosphere and ensure constructive discussion.
8. Q: How can evidence support arguments effectively?
   A: By providing factual information that strengthens the points being made.
9. Q: What should you focus on in your closing statements?
   A: Summarizing key arguments and reinforcing your main points.
10. Q: How does a debate differ from a regular discussion?
    A: A debate has a formal structure, with specific roles and rules, while a discussion is more informal.

Presentation

Step 1: The teacher reviews the basics of debates using the video clips.
Step 2: The teacher introduces the debate topic: “Corporal Punishment Should Not Be Enforced in Schools.”
Step 3: Pupils are divided into groups to prepare their arguments, followed by a class debate on the topic.

Teacher’s Activities

• Show video clips of debates.
• Facilitate group discussions on debate registers.
• Guide pupils in preparing and presenting their arguments.

Learners’ Activities

• Watch and analyze debate videos.
• Discuss debate features and registers in groups.
• Participate in the class debate on corporal punishment.

Assessment

• Evaluate pupils’ understanding of debate characteristics and procedures through their participation in the debate.

Evaluation Questions

1. What are the key features of a debate?
2. How should formal language be used in a debate?
3. What is the purpose of a moderator in a debate?
4. What are rebuttals, and why are they important?
5. How should closing statements be crafted?
6. What is the role of evidence in a debate?
7. Why is a respectful tone crucial in debates?
8. What steps should be followed in a debate procedure?
9. How can preparation impact a debate performance?
10. What distinguishes a debate from a discussion?

Conclusion

• The teacher will observe and provide feedback on pupils’ debate performances, ensuring understanding of debate procedures and characteristics.

More Useful Links

• First Term Examination Composition English Grammar Primary 5 First Term Lesson Notes Week 12
• Composition English Grammar Primary 5 First Term Lesson Notes