Creative Debates | ESL Classroom Debate Formats for Critical Thinking & Speaking Skills

Transform routine English lessons into lively discussions with a resource that introduces students to a wide variety of debate formats. From quick-fire warmers to structured whole-class debates, the activities encourage fluency, confidence, and respectful disagreement while keeping learners engaged.

Teachers can choose from formats such as speed debates, balloon debates, fishbowl setups, and roleplay tasks. The activities are adaptable for different levels, with options for scaffolding, role assignment, and creative physical setups like opinion lines and debate cafés. This flexibility allows debates to become a regular part of lessons, supporting skills in persuasion, critical analysis, and teamwork.

This resource is also part of our Debates & Discussions | EFL Resource Pack, which is available to download here.

Perfect For:

• ESL teachers seeking structured and creative debate activities for classroom use
• TEFL and TESOL classes developing fluency, persuasion, and teamwork
• EAL learners practising critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication

Please Note: Once you have completed your purchase, you will receive a PDF to download and print. This is a digital download. No physical product will be shipped.