Lesson 6: Debate/Argumentative Essay

🟦 Introduction

Have you ever had to argue your point — in class, at home, or in a friendly debate? An argumentative essay or debate speech allows you to take a stand for or against a topic and convince others with logic, evidence, and persuasive language.

WASSCE often presents a motion (statement) and asks you to:

• Argue for or against it (as in a debate)

• Present logical points supported with examples

• Use persuasive techniques and rhetorical questions

• Follow clear structure — especially in formal debates

In this lesson, you’ll learn how to develop convincing arguments, refute opposing views, and write like a skilled debater.

🟩 Key Concepts and Explanations

1. What Is an Argumentative Essay?

An argumentative essay or debate piece presents a clear opinion on a controversial issue, either for or against a stated motion. You defend your side with facts, examples, logic, and persuasive devices.

Examples of WASSCE motions:

• “Social media does more harm than good.”

• “Teenagers should be allowed to vote.”

• “Examination malpractice is caused by teachers.”

2. Structure of an Argumentative Essay

3. Formal Debate Format (When Required)

If the prompt says “write for a school debate”, follow this format:

4. Persuasive Techniques You Can Use

🟨 Practice Exercises

✏️ Exercise 1: Identify the Argument Type

Which of the following is a strong argument for the motion “Day schools are better than boarding schools”?

A. Day students get more sleep and family time.
B. I think boarding schools are fun.
C. Some students like their own room.
D. Day schools are okay, I guess.

✏️ Exercise 2: Rewrite for Debate Style

Turn this into a strong opening for a school debate:

“I think we should stop exams. They stress people out.”

✏️ Exercise 3: Write It Yourself

Write a short argumentative essay (150–200 words) against the motion:
“Money is more important than education.”
Use a strong introduction, at least three points, and a clear conclusion.

✅ Answers and Explanations

Exercise 1: Strong Argument

✅ A – Makes a clear, logical point
❌ B, C, D – Vague, emotional, or unclear reasoning

Exercise 2: Revised Opening

“Mr. Chairman, Ladies and Gentlemen, I rise to support the motion that examinations should be banned. Why? Because they cause undue stress, encourage cramming, and do not reflect true intelligence.”

Exercise 3: (Students’ answers will vary. Look for: clear stance, logical support, structured format, persuasive tone.)

🔁 Recap

In this lesson, you’ve learned:

• What makes a good debate or argumentative essay

• How to structure a persuasive argument with strong, logical points

• The difference between personal opinion and reasoned argument

• How to use rhetorical devices and formal language to persuade

🪞 Reflection Prompt

Choose one motion from below. Write whether you’re for or against it, and state one reason to support your view.

• “Smartphones should be banned in schools.”

• “Teenagers should be allowed to vote at age 16.”