Debate · lesson 18 of 24 · free

Starting a group discussion — Debate and group discussion

Starting a GD well earns credit — but only if the start is useful. Strong starts define the key word (“Let’s first be clear what we mean by ‘screen time’”), give a relevant fact, ask a clear question or link the topic to daily life. Weak starts are unsure (“Um, I don’t know much…”), boastful, off topic, or just repeat the topic. If someone else starts, a strong, fresh point later earns credit too.

▶ Watch how it works

Got it? Practise ↓

Debater's tip

Open the door for everyone — “start with a definition, a relevant fact or a good question”

  1. Strong start: define the key word, a relevant fact, a short clear question, a quick real example, the scope of the topic.
  2. Weak start: a long story, a wrong fact, shouting to be first, repeating the topic, a joke off the topic, “sorry”.
  3. Use the thinking time to note 2–3 key points; start only if you are ready.

Use it for: The first minute of any GD, a class discussion or a meeting you are asked to open.

Worked example: 🚀 Strong or weak start to a GD: defining the key word? → a strong start

  1. Defining the key word gives everyone the same starting point to build on.
  2. So it is a strong way to start a GD.

Check: Practise aloud: give three different 20-second openings for the GD topic “Are school trips as useful as lessons?” ✓

▶ 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 18 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 🚀 Strong Opener badge when you pass — and a certificate when you finish all 8 lessons of Part 3 · Group discussion. You can still take the test without signing in.

🖨️ Group Discussion Worksheet: Starting a GD

✨ 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.