This is a resource I prepared for an evening to have a debate and then engage in a role-play. These activities really help young people consider other people’s different perspectives and interests in matters – especially where compromises may have to be sought.
Debate
It may help to prepare some articles about the motion proposed to give each team a creative boost.
Guidelines
There are no set rules for effective debate and group discussions. There are, however, a few key points to remember:
- Listen to each other
- Make sure everyone has a chance to speak
- Don’t put other speakers down
- Be helpful and constructive when challenging views
- Offer help and support when needed
- Everyone has a right to ‘pass’ if they do not want to speak on an issue
- Show appreciation when someone explains something well
The dynamics of each group varies so it is important for each group to establish their own ground rules, which they can amend as the debates and discussions increase in confidence and sophistication.
A formal structure
Many debates do, however, follow a formal structure with individuals taking on specific roles:
- A Chair – to preside over the debate, ensuring everyone has a fair chance to speak and timings are kept
- Speakers – usually there are two speakers representing each side of the debate
- A time keeper – to ensure that each speaker has the same amount of time to present his/her case
- A record keeper – to make notes on what is being discussed and the arguments being put forward
- Audience – to offer additional input – they may finally vote for a decision
First a motion is proposed ( e.g. “This class believes school uniform should be banned”) and the Chair may take a vote on the issue and then introduces each speaker in the correct order.
Each speaker is allocated a set amount of time e.g. 5 minutes and then the following order is undertaken:
- Speaker for the motion
- Speaker against
- Speaker for (the same speaker as before or an additional)
- Speaker against (the same speaker as before or an additional)
There may then be contributions from the audience (the ‘floor’). It is usually a good idea to plan several questions in advance in order to get the discussion going.
A final vote is taken, which can be compared against the first vote’s results to see if opinion have altered, and why.
Example Motions
People have the right to choose how they want to use drugs including caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, cannabis.
Young people should be allowed to vote from the age of 16.
Computer games is having an adverse effect on society.
Role Play
I adapted the following scenario from an ‘Access to Police’ course I attended (when I was thinking about joining the Police). It’s a good example of a role-play that utilises several participants (each having different stakeholder interests) and be relevant to young people.
Scenario
The local council has proposed the implementation of a curfew scheme under the Crime and Disorder Act for England and Wales 1998 and the anti-social behaviour Act 2003. The scheme intends to combat crime and antisocial behaviour including drinking, drugs graffiti and vandalism. Under the legislation, a person under 18 years of age found on the streets after 9pm can be arrested. The council has called a forum and invited members of the community to voice concerns.
Roles
Shopkeeper – your shop has been vandalised by youths frequently over the past year
Teenager – you have swimming lessons and band practices often after 9pm and rely on public transport
Police Chief – You responsibility is to decrease crime and anti-social behaviour
Councillor – You are accountable to the public and their fears over crime and anti-social behaviour
Parent – Your teenagers are frequently out past 9pm but you have little control. The legislation could result in fines if your children are arrested.
Lone Elderly Person – You are concerned over mugging and have become recluse over recent years.
Neighbourhood Watch – You want to ensure that the communities and streets are safer.
Youth Leader – You are concerned with engaging and understanding teenagers.
Church Member – You are concerned that people’s rights are upheld such as freedom.
Commercial Leisure Manager – Teenagers and families are your target market for customers in a bowling alley/cinema complex.