I am a big believer in gameification in the classroom, and these four games are full of my hair-brained tricks to get kids to believe that public speaking and debate are actually fun. My bundle features four kooky, face-paced games that are designed to elevate your students’ public speaking and debating skills. These games—It’s Debatable!, Well Said!, The Worst Thing in the World Debate Game, and On the Fly!—each bring a creative approach to developing communication skills in a supportive and fun environment. Let’s take a look at how each game works.
It’s Debatable! sharpens critical thinking and argumentation skills by engaging students in mini-debates on quirky topics like “Is cereal soup? or “Is water wet?” The game creates light, competitive atmosphere, making it easier for students to dive into the art of constructing and defending arguments. By participating in these debates, students learn how to articulate their thoughts clearly, consider opposing viewpoints, and respond effectively.
Well Said! focuses on the often overlooked but crucial elements of public speaking: non-verbal communication and emotional delivery. Combining elements of charades and Taboo, this game challenges students to convey their messages effectively without relying solely on words. By mastering tone, gestures, and facial expressions, etc., students learn to feeling to their speeches, making their communication more precise. This game is particularly effective in helping students understand that how they say something can be just as important as what they say.
The Worst Thing in the World Debate Game takes a humorous approach to persuasive speaking. In this game, students argue why their selected pet peeve is the “worst in the world,” encouraging them to think outside the box and use their imagination. The low-pressure setting allows students to experiment with different persuasive techniques, making it a favorite among creative thinkers. This game not only hones their persuasive skills but also fosters a sense of camaraderie as students share and laugh about their pet peeves.
On the Fly! introduces a sports-themed twist to impromptu speaking, bringing the excitement of baseball into the classroom. Students rotate through roles such as “Up” (speaking team), “On Deck” (preparing to speak next), and “In the Hole” (drawing their speaking topics). With minimal preparation time, students must quickly organize their thoughts and deliver structured speeches. This game encourages fast thinking, teamwork, and adaptability. The mildly competitive element, with awards for creativity, best answers, and best delivery, adds a little extra motivation for students to excel.
This bundle offers a wide range of creative approaches to developing public speaking skills, ensuring that students remain engaged while covering a spectrum of communication abilities. From logical reasoning and persuasive techniques to mastering non-verbal cues and impromptu speaking, these games facilitate a comprehensive learning experience that transforms public speaking into a fun part of the curriculum.
