Autumn Debate Cafe

How to use this activity:

Individual Work
The student reads a card with a debate statement about autumn (e.g. “Schools should start their academic year in spring, not autumn”) and then gives a short response, choosing to agree or disagree and providing at least one reason.

Pair or Group Work
Students work in pairs or small groups. One student reads a statement aloud and argues for it. Another student argues against it. Then they switch roles with a new card.
Groups can set a short time limit (e.g. 1 minute per argument) or give points for the most persuasive ideas.

Class Sharing
After several turns, invite a few pairs or groups to present their most original or funny arguments to the whole class. Classmates can vote on who was more persuasive or add quick counterarguments to keep the debate lively.
Encourage students to use the Useful Phrases provided to make their opinions clearer and more confident.