62+ Arguably Awesome Debate Topics for Middle School

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Debating is an essential skill for middle schoolers, whether they are naturally outspoken or more reserved in their opinions. It equips them with the ability to understand various perspectives, articulate their thoughts, and formulate strong arguments on topics that resonate with them. Engaging in debates can also enhance their critical thinking and communication skills, which are vital for their future.

While 6th to 8th graders may not be ready for intense political discussions, there are numerous engaging and age-appropriate debate topics that can help them develop important skills without venturing into controversial adult themes. These topics can be utilized as warm-up exercises, writing prompts, or formal debates, allowing students to express their views while honing their abilities to engage in constructive dialogue with peers.

Quick Debate Topics for Middle School

These quick debate topics serve as excellent starting points for warm-up activities or writing exercises, encouraging middle school students to take a stance on various issues.

• Is pepperoni the best pizza topping?
• Are rats good pets?
• Is it better to have Monday off or Friday off?
• Is the A-F grading system effective?
• Should we invest more in searching for extraterrestrial life?
• Are chopsticks superior to forks and knives?
• Is flying more advantageous than driving?
• Is it fair for parents to discipline children for poor grades?
• Should pets be allowed in schools?
• Should dessert be served before dinner?
• Could AI potentially replace current jobs?
• Should our city increase its public transportation options?
• Should summer vacation be extended?
• Is camping more enjoyable than staying in a hotel?
• Should people be allowed to keep elephants as pets?

Introduce Basic Debate Skills to Middle School Students

Just because middle schoolers enjoy arguing doesn’t mean they possess the skills to debate effectively. It’s essential to introduce fundamental debate techniques before delving into a comprehensive argumentative speaking unit.

Classroom Debate Unit for Grades 4-7 by Coach’s Corner
By Coach’s Corner
Grades: 4th-7th
Subject: English Language Arts

This comprehensive debate unit provides suggested topics, schedules, rules for debates, and an assessment rubric suitable for a four-class-period lesson plan.

Introduction to Debate – Silent Debate
By Middle School Cafe
Grades: 6th-9th
Subjects: English Language Arts, Social Studies

This silent debate resource encourages middle schoolers to articulate their claims, warrants, impacts, and rationale on both sides of an argument through writing.

Relevant Middle School Debate Topics

To truly engage middle schoolers, connect debate topics to their everyday experiences and interests. These questions can serve as sociology inquiries or discussion starters that align with CCSS for speaking and listening.

• Should math classes be optional?
• Should parents control their preteens’ internet access?
• Is it beneficial for children to pursue acting careers?
• Are video games positive for youth development?
• Should online videos contain mid-roll advertisements?
• Is 12 an appropriate age for children to receive smartphones?
• Does school start time need to be later?
• Should middle schoolers be allowed to view R-rated films?
• At what age should voting rights be granted to children?
• Is it acceptable for kindergarteners to use tablets in class?
• Should all students receive free lunch at school?
• Should homework be abolished?
• Should teachers receive higher salaries?
• Is universal healthcare a good idea?
• Should elementary school extend to 8th grade?
• Should middle schoolers be permitted to date?
• Should every nation adopt an official language?
• Is homeschooling more effective than traditional schooling?

Integrate Debate Topics into Reading Responses

Almost any reading material can inspire a debate topic. Utilize nonfiction texts to spark students’ curiosity and enhance their argumentative speaking capabilities.

High Interest Nonfiction Passages with Debate Topics
By Creative Speech Lab
Grades: 4th-8th
Subject: English Language Arts

This differentiated resource combines reading comprehension with argumentative skill development, featuring ten original nonfiction passages paired with engaging debate topics.

Imaginative Junior High Debate Topics

Encourage creativity with debate topics that delve into the realms of science fiction, fantasy, or unconventional ideas. These prompts can effectively blend narrative and argumentative writing exercises in middle school ELA classes.

• Would you prefer a day as a fish or a bird?
• Should a king be required to pay taxes to his realm?
• Which superhero would dominate in the Olympics?
• Would you rather star in a vampire movie or a zombie flick?
• Is it preferable to be a hero or a villain in films?
• What regulations should apply to shapeshifters?
• If time travel were possible, would a license be necessary?
• Should superheroes be mandated to purchase plane tickets for flights?
• Should AI entities be permitted to marry?
• If magic existed, would the government have the right to regulate it?
• Is it stealing if you’re magnetic and money adheres to you?
• If we colonize the moon, who should be allowed to go?
• Should there be a mechanism to skip dull moments?
• Should pirate captains be elected leaders?

Teach Middle Schoolers to Take New Perspectives

Understanding different viewpoints is a crucial debate skill for middle schoolers. Incorporate resources that emphasize counterarguments and alternative perspectives to help students approach topics from various angles.

Mini-Debate & Perspective Taking Activity with Argument Organizer + 20 Topics
By Basically Speeching
Grades: 6th-9th
Subjects: Social Emotional Learning, Speaking & Listening

This activity helps middle schoolers learn to comprehend arguments from multiple perspectives, fostering flexible thinking in their argument development. It’s ideal for speaking and listening units and can be beneficial in debate clubs and speech therapy settings.

‘This or That’ Debate Topics for Middle School

Some debate topics are straightforward choices. Utilize these “this or that” topics for quick classroom debates or as social-emotional learning activities.

• Superman or Spiderman?
• Bike or scooter?
• Pop music or hip hop?
• Firefighter or police officer?
• Baseball or basketball?
• Winter or summer?
• Growing up in the 90s or today?
• Backyard pool or trampoline?
• Many friends or one best friend?
• Soda or juice?
• Dinner at 4 PM or 8 PM?
• Birthday cake or donuts?
• Travel or stay home?
• Two-story or single-story house?
• Daytime sleep or night sleep?

Take Out Task Cards for Students to Choose Their Debates

Looking for more inspiration? Allow students to select their debate topics using resources that feature a variety of engaging options.

Debate Topics – Task Cards
By Musings from Middle School
Grades: 6th-8th
Subjects: Writing-Expository

Encourage your middle schoolers to share their opinions! This well-structured resource features 20 captivating task cards, each highlighting a different debate topic. They can be used in small group settings to practice debate skills or displayed around the classroom for students to explore various debate stations.

Rules for Middle School Debates

While middle school debates may not require the rigid structure of high school Socratic seminars, having a set of guidelines helps ensure that every voice is heard and that debates remain respectful. Here are some common rules to follow:

• Come prepared with thorough research.
• If working in a group, ensure equal participation in preparation.
• Always speak respectfully.
• Do not interrupt others while they are speaking.
• No electronic devices during the debate.
• Avoid introducing new arguments in rebuttals.
• Maintain eye contact with opponents.
• Respect the time limit for your arguments.

Speak Up for Strong Debate Skills

The ability to engage in debate is not limited to aspiring lawyers or politicians; all students benefit from learning to articulate their views, comprehend opposing arguments, and back their positions with sound reasoning. Moreover, debate resources for middle school can be integrated across various subjects, from science and social studies to math, throughout the academic year!

Once students have mastered these foundational debate topics, consider introducing more advanced discussions appropriate for high school to prepare them for even more complex dialogues and arguments.