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Halloween Debate: Fact vs. Fiction

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Lesson Plan

Halloween Debate: Fact vs. Fiction

Debate Halloween myths vs. realities

In this lesson, students will research and debate common myths versus realities of Halloween traditions. This engaging activity will sharpen their critical thinking and public speaking skills while providing a fun thematic discussion. By exploring the origins and truths behind Halloween customs, students will learn to differentiate between fact and fiction, enhancing their analytical abilities.

Audience

Grades 6-8

Time

40 minutes

Approach

Debate Halloween myths vs. realities

Materials

Research Worksheet, Debate Rubric, Pens, Paper, and Access to internet or library resources

Step 1

Introduction

5 mins

  • Briefly introduce the topic of Halloween myths vs. realities.
  • Explain the objective: to research and debate these topics.
  • Divide students into two groups: one for myths, one for realities.

Step 2

Research Phase

10 mins

  • Distribute the Research Worksheet to each student.
  • Allow students to use the internet or library resources to gather information.
  • Encourage them to find credible sources to support their arguments.

Step 3

Debate Preparation

10 mins

  • Have each group organize their findings and prepare their arguments.
  • Encourage students to think about counterarguments and how to address them.
  • Provide guidance on structuring their debate points.

Step 4

Debate Session

10 mins

  • Facilitate the debate, allowing each group to present their arguments.
  • Encourage respectful listening and rebuttals.
  • Use the Debate Rubric to evaluate performance.

Step 5

Closure

5 mins

  • Summarize key points from the debate.
  • Discuss what students learned about Halloween traditions.
  • Reflect on the skills used during the debate, such as critical thinking and public speaking.
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Worksheet

Research Worksheet

This worksheet will guide students in gathering information about Halloween myths and realities. It includes prompts to help them organize their research and prepare for the debate.

List three common Halloween myths you found in your research.

Consider myths related to Halloween origins, customs, or symbols.







List three realities or truths about Halloween traditions.

Look for historical facts or cultural explanations.







What sources did you use to verify your information?

Include websites, books, or articles.







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Worksheet

Debate Rubric

This rubric will be used to evaluate students' performance during the debate, focusing on clarity, evidence, rebuttal, and teamwork.




Clarity: Was the argument presented clearly and logically?







Evidence: Were credible sources used to support the argument?







Rebuttal: Did the student effectively address counterarguments?







Teamwork: Did the group work well together and support each other?




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