Discussion and debate

In a discussion people share ideas to understand a topic; in a debate two sides argue for and against a statement. Both work best when speakers listen carefully, give reasons and disagree politely, attacking ideas, not people.

Key facts

  • Agree: ⟦I completely agree.⟧, ⟦That's a really good point.⟧ Partly agree: ⟦I see what you mean, but…⟧
  • Disagree politely: ⟦I'm not sure I agree with that.⟧, ⟦I'm afraid I disagree.⟧, ⟦That's true, but have you thought about…?⟧ Never ⟦That's rubbish.⟧
  • Give reasons and examples: ⟦The main reason is that…⟧, ⟦For example, …⟧ Ask questions: ⟦Could you give me an example?⟧, ⟦What do you mean by that?⟧, ⟦What do you think?⟧
  • Take turns: let others finish, and if you must interrupt, do it politely: ⟦Sorry to interrupt, but…⟧
  • A formal debate has a motion (the statement debated), the proposition (for it), the opposition (against it) and a chair who keeps order. Speakers answer each other with rebuttals, and the audience often votes at the end.

Worked examples

Example 1

What is the speaker doing? ⟦I see what you mean, but I'm not sure.⟧

  1. ⟦I see what you mean⟧ shows respect for the other view.
  2. ⟦but I'm not sure⟧ shows the speaker does not agree.

Answer: disagreeing politely

Example 2

Which is more polite: ⟦That's rubbish.⟧ or ⟦I see your point, but I think differently.⟧?

  1. ⟦That's rubbish⟧ is rude and gives no reason.
  2. The second disagrees with the idea and stays respectful.

Answer: ⟦I see your point, but I think differently.⟧

Example 3

In a debate on the motion ⟦Schools should ban phones⟧, which team argues for the motion?

  1. The proposition supports the motion.
  2. The opposition argues against it.

Answer: the proposition