Grade 5 · Social Studies · Lesson 36

Class debate: prep & rubric

A CLASS DEBATE is a structured argument where two sides take turns making CLAIMS, backing them with EVIDENCE, and answering each other\u2019s COUNTER-ARGUMENTS - all while staying RESPECTFUL. Good debaters do not just talk loud; they prep before debate day. In this Unit 5 celebration lesson you will walk the FIVE prep steps and learn the FOUR-CRITERIA RUBRIC your teacher will use to score you. Master the rubric first - then practice scoring 3s and 4s on every row.

What this lesson teaches

1Prepare a class debate by researching the issue, forming a clear claim, and gathering 2-3 pieces of evidence
2Anticipate counter-arguments and write a short rebuttal so you can defend your side under pressure
3Practice respectful debate moves: listen first, attack the idea not the person, and disagree without insulting
4Score a debate using the four-criteria rubric: claim, evidence, delivery, and respect from 1 to 4

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