Teacher notes — Discussion & Debate
Is Morning Reading Time Good or a Waste of Class Time?
- Pre-teach the six word bank words with gestures before students see the handout. "Waste" is the hardest word, so mime throwing a book in the trash and shaking your head.
- Keep the mini debate to one sentence per student. At this level, long speeches fall apart. One clear sentence with a reason is a win.
- The two-vote structure (before and after) is the real payoff. Write both totals on the board so students see opinions can move.
- If a few students have no opinion, give them the frame "I don't know because ___" so they still speak.
- For a stronger class: add a third round where each team has to say one sentence agreeing with the OTHER side, before the final vote.