Debate Terms word search, scramble and crossword puzzle

Debate Terms word search, scramble and crossword puzzle

I made this debate terms puzzle set for my 4th and 5th graders during our debate unit. The kids loved arguing with each other but had no idea what words like resolution, affirmative, or rebuttal meant. So I put together a word search, a word scramble, and a crossword using words like debate, resolution, affirmative, negative, argument, claim, evidence, reasoning, rebuttal, cross examination, opening statement, closing statement, judge, time limit, and persuade. Nothing fancy — just puzzles to help the debate vocabulary finally stick.

The PDF is four pages. Three puzzles plus one answer key page. The word search works well for quiet time after recess. The scramble gets them talking because they argue about the difference between a claim and evidence. The crossword I use for partners. I added a couple simple podium and scale drawings but nothing too busy.

Works for 4th through 5th grade. Print and go. Sometimes I have early finishers write one possible rebuttal to the claim "homework should be banned" on the back. The kids actually ask for these now.