Some people are born naturally argumentative. Not in the confrontational way we associate with the word "argument." Instead, they seemed primed to be lawyers from a young age, turning every conversation into a debate. Certain personalities exhibit an innate understanding of the logic, critical thinking, and nuance of argument. Those with this keen sense of argumentation exhibit natural persuasiveness but also better grasp pattern recognition, relationships between ideas, and problem-solving. But that doesn't mean less argumentative people are out of luck. Learning the art discourse unlocks unlimited academic potential in students and demonstrates surprising benefits to improved communication and writing.
Improved Listening Skills and Empathy
Discourse between those with different viewpoints allows both sides to hear the other out, understand and empathize with that opposing viewpoint, and pave the way for compromise. The structure of formal debate mandates that each side of the argument is given equal, uninterrupted time to lay out the points of their argument. A compelling debate requires each side to listen to the other and synthesize those points to build a counterargument against it. Simply exposing someone to a new perspective makes them more likely to consider the feelings and needs of others, even when they disagree with them. This ability to discern levels of nuance when writing means writers fully explore the subject matter from all angles when discussing complex topics.
Organization and Critical Thinking
For most people, the word organization means keeping a space tidy and functional, but ideas must also be organized. When debating, the organization of the ideas presented can make or break an argument. Outlining an argument requires comprehending the relationships between concepts, recognizing patterns, identifying problems, and providing viable solutions. Deep analysis is needed to dissect a topic, and the ability to organize the information in a digestible way is necessary to present that argument to listeners. Understanding the structure of debate translates naturally into argumentative writing.
Effective Communication
In a debate, each side aims to persuade the audience that their perspective is logical and correct. To effectively persuade, the speaker must communicate clearly and concisely in a way that demonstrates their depth of knowledge on the subject and earns the listener's trust. In debate, winning depends not on the facts presented but on which side uses them to deliver the most salient argument. These same methods must be employed in all writing to ensure the message of the writing is successfully delivered to the audience.
Other Benefits of Debate
In our modern, contentious times, debate is truly a lost art form. Discourse, in and out of the classroom, is vital to understanding the complex issues of our times. The ability to discuss complicated, multifaceted issues with those who hold opposing opinions is necessary for finding common ground in conflict and holds tremendous value for improving writing and communication skills.
Looking for opportunities to have your student participate in debate? Each summer, LTWN offers Speech and Debate courses as part of our 360 program. In this course, students build confidence in public speaking while learning the tenets of debate. Click the link to learn more.
Human beings avoid doing things they don't like. As adults, we avoid going to the DMV until absolutely necessary, put off annoying tasks at work right up to a deadline, or continue to put off scheduling an appointment. However, when students avoid or procrastinate doing school work, many parents and educators conclude this behavior stems from a lack of motivation.
Some people are born naturally argumentative. Not in the confrontational way we associate with the word "argument." Instead, they seemed primed to be lawyers from a young age, turning every conversation into a debate. Certain personalities exhibit an innate understanding of the logic, critical thinking, and nuance of argument. Those with this keen sense of argumentation exhibit natural persuasiveness but also better grasp pattern recognition, relationships between ideas, and problem-solving.
When asked, nearly 60% of Gen Z students report they would like to be social media influencers. Interestingly, give those same students the chance to opt out of presentation in class, and they will jump at the opportunity. So why would a generation bent on seeking an audience avoid standing up in front of a classroom to practice public speaking skills? It’s a conundrum that vexes educators. While the chances of attaining influencer stardom are as slim as becoming any celebrity, public speaking and strong oral communication skills are coveted in the workplace.
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