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Get your students talking, thinking, and writing with this Standardized Testing Debate Pack, perfect for middle school debate units. This ready-to-use set includes fast facts, task cards, CER prompts, and graphic organizers to support critical thinking, evidence-based writing, and meaningful student discussion.
What's Included:

Fast Facts & Quote Bank - Balanced, research-based facts for both sides

Graphic Organizer - Scaffolded template for claims, evidence, reasoning, and rebuttals

Task Cards - Printable, discussion-ready prompts for small groups, stations, or centers

Quote Analysis Worksheet - Encourages close reading and critical reflection

CER Prompts - Pre-written, debate-ready writing tasks

Key Benefits:

Builds student confidence in public speaking and structured argumentation

Supports critical thinking and evidence-based writing

Provides real-world context for debate topics

Fosters thoughtful, respectful classroom discussion

Easy to integrate into existing debate units or use as a standalone lesson

Suggestions for Use:

Use as a complete debate unit or as a supplement to your existing standardized testing lessons

Perfect for stations, centers, or small group activities

Ideal for early finisher work, bell ringers, or exit tickets

Great for teaching critical thinking, argumentation, and evidence-based writing

Standards:
This resource aligns with the following CCSS ELA standards:

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.6.8 - Trace and evaluate the argument and specific claims in a text

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.6.1 - Write arguments to support claims with clear reasons and relevant evidence

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.6.1 - Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.6.4 - Present claims and findings clearly, sequencing ideas logically

✨ Want more high-interest debate lessons like this?

Explore the full debate collection on Padlet
Don't forget to follow Ms. Koven with Class for new releases, discounts, and curriculum updates!
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Standardized Testing Debate Pack, Fast Facts, Task Cards, CER Prompts, Organizer

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Standardized Testing Debate Pack - Great Debates SeriesGet your students talking, thinking, and writing with this Standardized Testing Debate Pack, perfect for middle school debate units. This ready-to-use set includes fast facts, task cards, CER prompts, and graphic organizers to support critical t...

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AI Grading Student Work: CER Writing, Informational Text & Debate | 4-Day Lesson

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ChatGPT in the Classroom Debate | CER Writing, Reading & Argument Mini Unit 5-8

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Engage middle school students with a 3-4 day ChatGPT debate unit featuring nonfiction reading, vocabulary, C.E.R. writing, and structured discussion. Product DescriptionPrepare your students for thoughtful discussion and critical thinking with this engaging ChatGPT in the Classroom debate lesson. ...

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The Homework Debate: 3–4 Day Argument Writing & CER Lesson with Activities (5–8)

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Analyzing the Impact of Later School Start Times Debate Included

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Navigate through the transformative idea of shifting school start times with our comprehensive Weekly Current: events for youthful minds, ideal for enhancing critical thinking and reading skills. Engage students in a thorough exploration using the CER method, curated multiple-choice and short-answer questions, reflective prompts, and a robust vocabulary section, designed specifically for an enlightening educational experience. Available in both English and Spanish, accompanied by audio versions, to ensure a rich, inclusive, and accessible learning journey for all.

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The Weekly Current: Analyzing the Impact of Later School Start Times

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Navigate through the transformative idea of shifting school start times with our comprehensive Weekly Current: events for youthful minds, ideal for enhancing critical thinking and reading skills. Engage students in a thorough exploration using the CER method, curated multiple-choice and short-answer...

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Debate Lesson: Should Students Wear Uniforms? | Reading, Writing & Speaking

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Engage students in a thoughtful debate on school uniforms with this reading-based lesson featuring vocabulary, CER writing, and a structured class debate. Product DescriptionShould students wear school uniforms? This all-in-one resource invites your students to explore both sides of this real-world ...

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Space exploration: is it worth it? Debate Study Guide (English and Spanish)

Get ready to learn about the pros and cons of space exploration with our comprehensive study guide, available in English and Spanish, covering 5th, 8th-grade average, and high-level reading abilities. This engaging workbook includes curated reading, vocabulary study, multiple-choice questions, claim-evidence-reasoning exercises, and thought-provoking reflection questions. Foster critical thinking, debate skills, and a deeper understanding of 'Is Space Exploration Important?

This study guide is ready to assign and could be used with persuasive writing, informational reading, and speaking and listening.

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Cosmic Controversies: Space Exploration Debate Studyguide

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Space exploration: is it worth it? Debate Study Guide (English and Spanish) Get ready to learn about the pros and cons of space exploration with our comprehensive study guide, available in English and Spanish, covering 5th, 8th-grade average, and high-level reading abilities. This engaging workbook ...

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Art vs. Science in Education: Debate Lesson 

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Art vs. Science in Education: Engaging Debate Lesson with Included Spanish Version

Dive into a debate-centered lesson comparing the roles of art & science in education. Features include articles with audio, CER problems, vocabulary with an extended Quizlet set, multiple choice & reflection questions, a self-assessment rubric, answer slides, standards alignment, and a Spanish version for Spanish speakers.

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Art vs. Science in Education: Engaging Debate Lesson with Included Spanish Versi

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Art vs. Science in Education: Engaging Debate Lesson with Included Spanish VersionDive into a debate-centered lesson comparing the roles of art & science in education. Features include articles with audio, CER problems, vocabulary with an extended Quizlet set, multiple choice & reflection qu...

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DALL·E 2024-10-21 08.22.51 - A visually engaging cover design for an informational text article set without words. The design features a stack of papers or an open book with clean

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AI in Schoolwork Debate Lesson • CER Writing • 4-Day ELA Plan (Grades 5–8)

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Cell Phones & Social Media in Schools – Debate Lesson for Grades 5–8

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Looking for engaging, standards-aligned debate lessons that spark critical thinking and student voice?

This collection features ready-to-use, cross-curricular resources designed for upper elementary and middle school students.Each debate includes:

A high-interest nonfiction article

Comprehension & vocabulary support

CER writing prompts with answer keys

Reflection & discussion questions

Fast facts & quote banks

Structured debate guides and rubrics

Printable and digital formats for easy useTopics range from cell phone use in schools to AI grading, school uniforms, healthier lunches, and more!

💡 Perfect for argument writing units, advisory periods, SEL tie-ins, or classroom discussions.

✨ All lessons are print-ready, standards-linked, and designed to support confident classroom debate.

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Engage students in critical thinking with this tech-themed debate! Includes article, vocab, writing prompts, and a classroom debate lesson. Grades 5-8.

Product Description

Should students be allowed to listen to music during independent work time? This compelling middle school debate lesson invites students to analyze both sides of the issue through reading, writing, and speaking.

This 4-day lesson includes a professionally written article, vocabulary study, multiple-choice questions, CER writing prompts, reflection activities, and a structured classroom debate. Perfect for combining ELA, social studies, and SEL themes!

✅ What's Included:

2-page debate article (Music in Class: A Distraction or a Learning Tool?)

Vocabulary worksheets (student + teacher key in table format)

✅ Comprehension questions (MCQs + stylized answer key)

CER writing prompts (student + teacher versions)

Sample CER response set

Reflect & Share worksheet + teacher discussion guide

Fast Facts & Quote Bank for both sides

Quote Analysis Worksheet

4-day lesson plan with structured Day 4 debate

Suggestions for Use:

Use as part of a media literacy or tech in education unit

Facilitate classroom debate with structured supports

Substitute your usual opinion writing or test prep with high-interest critical thinking!

Perfect for early finishers, sub plans, or flexible debate stations
Engage your students in a rich, standards-aligned debate about cell phone and social media use in schools. This 4-day resource includes a nonfiction article, comprehension activities, CER prompts, structured debate, reflection writing, fast facts, and more!

✨ Want more high-interest debate lessons like this?

Explore the full debate collection on Padlet
Don't forget to follow Ms. Koven with Class for new releases, discounts, and curriculum updates!
Follow Me on TPT

Questions & Answers

Reviews

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Music in Class Debate | Article, Vocabulary, Writing Prompts, and Student Debate

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Engage students in critical thinking with this tech-themed debate! Includes article, vocab, writing prompts, and a classroom debate lesson. Grades 5-8. Product DescriptionShould students be allowed to listen to music during independent work time? This compelling middle school debate lesson invites ...

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Manifest Destiny Debate | 4-Day Lesson w/ Article, CER, Task Cards, Activities

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Persuasive Writing Lessons Bundle, Grades 5–8, Essay Unit / Organizers & Rubrics

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Get your students started on the path to persuasive writing excellence with this comprehensive introductory lesson!

Aligned with Common Core State Standards (CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.6.1), this lesson covers the definition, purpose, and key elements of persuasive writing.

Explore persuasive techniques, dissect persuasive text examples, and engage students with an initial writing prompt. Start the journey into persuasive essays today and empower your students to write compelling arguments with clear reasons and relevant evidence.

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1. Introduction to Persuasive Writing: CCSS-Aligned Lesson

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Get your students started on the path to persuasive writing excellence with this comprehensive introductory lesson! Aligned with Common Core State Standards (CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.6.1), this lesson covers the definition, purpose, and key elements of persuasive writing. Explore persuasive techniques, d...

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Empower your students to take a stand with this engaging second lesson in persuasive writing, aligned with Common Core State Standards (CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.6.1).

In this lesson, students will brainstorm and explore a wide range of potential persuasive essay topics. They will learn to select a preliminary topic and clearly state their position with reasons and evidence, essential skills in persuasive writing. Dive into the world of arguments, examine argument examples, and identify arguments in sample texts. Discover the art of crafting compelling persuasive essays that leave a lasting impact.

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2. Exploring Persuasive Essay Topics: Taking a Stand with Reasons and Evidence

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Empower your students to take a stand with this engaging second lesson in persuasive writing, aligned with Common Core State Standards (CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.6.1).In this lesson, students will brainstorm and explore a wide range of potential persuasive essay topics. They will learn to select a prelimi...

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Have you ever had a group of kids come into class and not know how to create a thesis statement? I have, every year, it seems. Here, they can get either a review or learn it for the first time.

Master the art of thesis writing with this comprehensive middle school lesson plan! Aligned with MS.W.1.A, this 60-minute (It could be spread out to 2 days worth of work) lesson comes complete with the Pear Deck add-on with its immersive reader, real-time data collection, and an optional Padlet link for enhanced engagement. Designed for both online and in-person learning, it focuses on enabling students to craft clear, concise, and arguable thesis statements. Dynamic black-and-white slides are also printer-friendly. Elevate your teaching with this complete package!

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Have you ever had a group of kids come into class and not know how to create a thesis statement? I have, every year, it seems. Here, they can get either a review or learn it for the first time.Master the art of thesis writing with this comprehensive middle school lesson plan!

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Elevate your students' persuasive writing skills with this fourth lesson, aligning with Common Core State Standards (CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.6.1.B).

In this lesson, students will develop and organize their arguments while identifying compelling evidence to support their thesis statement using, Claim, Evidence, and Reasoning structure. They will also analyze and tailor their message to effectively address their audience.

Dive into the art of creating strong thesis statements, dissecting examples, and crafting your own. Explore the critical skill of building persuasive arguments that resonate with clarity, relevance, and credibility. Prepare your students to write impactful essays that leave a lasting impression.

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4. Crafting Persuasive Essays with Clear Reasons & Evidence (CCSS-Aligned)

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Elevate your students' persuasive writing skills with this fourth lesson, aligning with Common Core State Standards (CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.6.1.B). In this lesson, students will develop and organize their arguments while identifying compelling evidence to support their thesis statement using, Claim, Ev...

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Elevate your students' persuasive writing prowess with this fifth lesson, aligning perfectly with Common Core State Standards (CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.6.1.B).

In this lesson, students will identify potential counterarguments to their thesis, developing effective responses to address them convincingly.

Dive into the art of analyzing persuasive texts, examining how counterarguments are effectively handled. Discover the essential skill of addressing counterarguments, strengthening persuasive essays, and leaving no room for doubt. Equip your students with the tools they need to excel in persuasive writing.

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Elevate your students' persuasive writing prowess with this fifth lesson, aligning perfectly with Common Core State Standards (CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.6.1.B).In this lesson, students will identify potential counterarguments to their thesis, developing effective responses to address them convincingly.Div...

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Set your students on the path to persuasive writing excellence with this sixth lesson, perfectly aligned with Common Core State Standards (CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.6.1.A).

In this lesson, students will delve into the essential components of an effective introduction in persuasive essays. They will draft engaging introductions, incorporating hooks, background information, and clear thesis statements.

Explore various introduction examples and learn how they set the stage for compelling arguments. Equip your students with the skills they need to create persuasive essays that captivate their audience from the very beginning.

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6. Crafting Persuasive Introductions: Strong Argument Start (CCSS-Aligned)

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Set your students on the path to persuasive writing excellence with this sixth lesson, perfectly aligned with Common Core State Standards (CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.6.1.A).In this lesson, students will delve into the essential components of an effective introduction in persuasive essays. They will draft e...

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Enhance your students' persuasive writing skills with this seventh lesson, perfectly aligned with Common Core State Standards (CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.6.1.C).

In this lesson, students will master the art of constructing persuasive essay body paragraphs. They will develop clear topic sentences, present arguments, provide evidence, and conclude their paragraphs cohesively.

Dive into addressing and refuting opposing views, strengthening the overall argument. Explore body paragraph examples, practice drafting, and receive peer feedback to refine their skills. Equip your students with the tools to create compelling and logically structured essays.

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7. Effective Body Paragraphs: Crafting Cohesive Arguments (CCSS-Aligned)

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Enhance your students' persuasive writing skills with this seventh lesson, perfectly aligned with Common Core State Standards (CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.6.1.C).In this lesson, students will master the art of constructing persuasive essay body paragraphs. They will develop clear topic sentences, present ar...

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Empower your students to excel in persuasive writing with this lesson, meticulously aligned with Common Core State Standards (CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.6.1.E).

In this lesson, students will explore the vital role of conclusions in restating their thesis, summarizing key points, and leaving a lasting impression. They will draft persuasive essay conclusions that resonate with clarity and conviction.

Dive into the world of persuasive techniques, including ethos, pathos, and logos, to enhance their arguments. Analyze effective conclusions from sample essays, practice drafting, and receive peer feedback to refine their skills. Equip your students with the tools to craft compelling and impactful conclusions.

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8. Crafting Convincing Conclusions: Endings that Resonate (CCSS-Aligned)

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Empower your students to excel in persuasive writing with this lesson, meticulously aligned with Common Core State Standards (CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.6.1.E).In this lesson, students will explore the vital role of conclusions in restating their thesis, summarizing key points, and leaving a lasting impres...

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Enhance your students' research and persuasive writing skills with this engaging lesson on the importance of credible sources. Aligned with CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.6.8, students will learn to identify, evaluate, and cite reliable sources, fostering their ability to build compelling arguments. This interactive lesson includes activities like source evaluation, quoting, paraphrasing, and creating citations, ensuring students are well-equipped for future research projects. Explore the world of credible sources and plagiarism prevention with this comprehensive and student-friendly resource.

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9.Credible Sources Unleashed: Persuasive Writing and Research Skills Masterclass

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Enhance your students' research and persuasive writing skills with this engaging lesson on the importance of credible sources. Aligned with CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.6.8, students will learn to identify, evaluate, and cite reliable sources, fostering their ability to build compelling arguments. This inter...

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Persuasive Writing Lesson 10: Organizing & Finalizing the Essay

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Help students organize, revise, and polish their persuasive essays! This no-prep lesson includes tone and style models, editing checklists, peer review, and rubric. Grades 5-8. Persuasive Writing Lesson 10: Organizing & Finalizing the Essay Black & White PDF + Full-Color PowerPoint Slides I...

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How to Win Classroom Debates – Build Strong Arguments with PEEL & CER

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Persuasive Writing: How to write persuasively with creativity and style

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W.7.1: "Mastering Persuasive Writing: School Uniforms Debate Explained"

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W.8.1: Mastering the Art of Writing: Unveiling the Mysteries of Counterarguments

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Boost persuasive writing skills with this all-inclusive Counterargument Lesson Plan for middle school. Aligned with MS.W.1.A, this lesson comes with interactive Pear Deck slides, a 3-point rubric, bright visuals, and dynamic examples. Suited for both online and in-person learning, this resource includes a detailed lesson plan and hands-on activities to engage students in mastering counterarguments effectively. Perfect for developing critical thinking and strong argumentation skills.

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Boost persuasive writing skills with this all-inclusive Counterargument Lesson Plan for middle school. Aligned with MS.W.1.A, this lesson comes with interactive Pear Deck slides, a 3-point rubric, bright visuals, and dynamic examples. Suited for both online and in-person learning, this resource incl...