Let’s face it: we all love to complain. Why not turn it into an educational game? The “Worst Thing in the World” Debate Game does just that by transforming our minor grievances into a lively competition, giving students a chance to sharpen their argumentation in a low-pressure, game-like environment.
How to Prepare
- Print the Game Materials:
- Pet Peeve Cards: Print double-sided (color or black & white), following the included instructions. Each round requires 4-5 cards.
- Round Winner Cards: Also printed double-sided, with eight cards per sheet. You’ll need enough for the desired number of rounds.
- Argument Templates: Print one for each student, allowing three rounds of play per template.
- Game Boards: Print one per group. Each board includes instructions for play.
- Game Setup:
- Divide the class into groups of 5-6 students.
- Distribute game boards, pet peeve cards, round winner cards, and argument templates to each group.
- Provide each group with a timer, or the teacher can track time for the whole class.
How to Play
- Step 1: The youngest player in each group acts as the judge/timer for the first round. They select a “round winner” card to be awarded at the end.
- Step 2: The remaining players each draw a Pet Peeve card and have two minutes to construct an argument using their templates. The goal? Convince the judge that their pet peeve is the Worst Thing in the World.
- Step 3: After two minutes, players present their arguments. The judge picks the most persuasive speaker and awards them a “round winner” card.
- Step 4: The role of judge passes to the player to the left of the youngest, and the process repeats for as many rounds as you’d like.
Winning the Game
The player who collects the most “round winner” cards at the end is crowned the victor!