ABSTRACT
Debate is part of any democratic process. It also underpins the development of reasoned argument and an appreciation of other people’s points of view. In developing skills of inquiry and communication, the Citizenship programme of study expects students at Key Stages 3 and 4 to ‘take part in debates’. By KS4 these should be formal so opportunities should be found within the curriculum to work with a chairperson, speakers for the proposition, speakers for the opposition and an audience vote. Debate is a structured process which requires students to listen to arguments, contribute and question before making a decision about their own point of view.
