The Object Advocate

How to use:

• Assign or allow students to choose an object from a prepared list, which they will defend as the most important invention in history.

• Pair up the students and send them to breakout rooms. In pairs, they will have 5-7 minutes to discuss and prepare arguments about why their object is the most significant. Each student will take turns persuading their partner.

• After the preparation time, regroup the class. Each pair will then merge with another pair (groups of four) and present their arguments. Students should present for 2-3 minutes each, followed by a group discussion where they ask questions and challenge each other's ideas.

• Guide students as needed with useful vocabulary and persuasive techniques, and facilitate the larger class discussion afterward about which arguments were the most convincing.