Debate · lesson 4 of 24 · free

Points for and against — Debate and group discussion

The motion is the statement being debated, such as “Homework should be optional.” A point is for the motion if it gives a reason to agree (“Children need free time to play and rest”) and against the motion if it gives a reason to disagree (“Regular homework helps students practise”). Good debaters list points for both sides before they start — it helps them argue their own side and expect the other.

▶ Watch how it works

Got it? Practise ↓

Debater's tip

Agree or disagree? — “a point is FOR the motion if it gives a reason to agree, AGAINST if it gives a reason to disagree”

  1. Read the motion carefully, then ask: does this point make the motion more true or less true?
  2. For the motion = the proposition’s point. Against the motion = the opposition’s point.
  3. Before a debate, list three points for and three against — you will need to answer the other side.

Use it for: Preparing for any debate, picking a side in a GD and writing balanced essays.

Worked example: ⚖️ Motion: “Homework should be optional.” Which side does this point support? “Teachers use homework to see who needs extra help.” → against the motion

  1. The point shows a use of set homework, so it is a reason to keep homework compulsory.
  2. So it is against the motion.

Check: Practise aloud: give two points for and two against “Every student should learn to cook at school” ✓

▶ Watch it animated

✏️ Practice

Work it out in your head or on paper, type the answer and press Check. Stuck? Press “Show me how”.

Right: 0 · Tried: 0

🏁 Lesson 4 test

20 questions. Check each answer, then go to the next one. Get 16 or more right to pass.

🏅 Sign in with Google to earn the ⚖️ Side Spotter badge when you pass — and a certificate when you finish all 8 lessons of Part 1 · Arguments. You can still take the test without signing in.

🖨️ Debate Worksheet: Points For and Against

✨ Free AI tutor

Ask the AI tutor about this lesson

Why does it work? When should you use it? Ask in English, मराठी or हिंदी.

Sign in with Google to ask Free — 20 questions a day.

👩‍🏫 Debate classes near you — online or at home

Prefer a real teacher? TalentJR teachers take live online classes anywhere in India and visit homes in selected cities. Tell us what you need and our team will call you with timings and fees.

Live online classesSmall groups or 1:1 with a teacher, from home, any city.
Teacher at homeA TalentJR teacher visits your home (selected cities).
At a centreClasses at a TalentJR partner centre near you, where available.
Badges, certificates & gifts A badge for every lesson you pass, a certificate for every part you finish, plus TalentJR Points for daily practice. Public speaking Voice, structure and confidence on stage.