Using Debates in Teaching Speaking to Encourage Class Participation
Keywords:
Debates in language teaching, class participation, speaking skills, critical thinking, communication skills, student engagement, language learning, active learning, collaborative learning, public speaking, teaching strategies.Abstract
This article explores the use of debates as an effective tool for encouraging class participation, particularly in the context of teaching speaking skills in language classrooms. The author highlights the barriers that many students face, such as anxiety and lack of confidence, which limit their active participation in class discussions. The article reviews existing literature on the pedagogical value of debates and cites studies demonstrating how debates can increase student motivation, foster critical thinking, and enhance communication skills. Through a detailed examination of the benefits of debates, the article outlines practical strategies for implementing them in the classroom, including selecting engaging topics, assigning roles, and creating a supportive environment. It concludes that debates not only improve speaking proficiency but also promote collaborative learning and develop essential life skills. This resource is valuable for educators seeking to create interactive and participatory learning experiences in their classrooms.
References
• Alasmari, A. (2020). Debates as a teaching strategy to enhance participation and speaking skills in language classrooms. Journal of Language Teaching and Research, 11(3), 411-420.
• Bailey, K., & Nunan, D. (2005). Practical English Language Teaching: Speaking. McGraw Hill.
• Fauzan, U. (2016). Enhancing speaking ability of EFL students through debate and peer assessment. EFL Journal, 1(1), 49-57.
• Goodwin, J. (2003). Students' perspectives on debate in the classroom. Contemporary Issues in Education Research, 1(1), 22-30.
• Harmer, J. (2007). The Practice of English Language Teaching (4th ed.). Pearson Longman.
• Kennedy, R. (2007). In-class debates: Fertile ground for active learning and the cultivation of critical thinking and oral communication skills. International Journal of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education, 19(2), 183-190.
• Matusitz, J., & Forrester, M. (2009). Debate as a teaching strategy in the online classroom: A case study. Journal of Online Learning and Teaching, 5(2), 198-201.
• Meyers, C. (2012). Teaching Students to Think Critically. Jossey-Bass.
• Richards, J. C., & Rodgers, T. S. (2014). Approaches and Methods in Language Teaching (3rd ed.). Cambridge University Press.
• Tuan, N. H., & Mai, T. N. (2015). Factors affecting students' speaking performance at Le Thanh Hien high school. Asian Journal of Educational Research, 3(2), 8-23.
• Ur, P. (1996). A Course in Language Teaching: Practice and Theory. Cambridge University Press.
• Zare, P., & Othman, M. (2015). Students' perceptions towards using classroom debate to develop critical thinking and oral communication ability. Asian Social Science, 11(9), 158-170.
