English · Pioneers 11–15 · Year 9
Speaking, listening and debate
Can you change a mind in three minutes?
What you will learn
- Plan a speech with a clear claim, evidence and structure
- Use rhetorical devices and delivery skills (pace, pause, eye contact)
- Listen actively and respond to counter-arguments respectfully
- Evaluate spoken performances against criteria
Helpful to know first: Persuasive writing basics
Discover
Think first: Can you change a mind in three minutes? Say or jot one idea before you read on.
Learn — core route
- Speech-planning triangle
- Rebuttal tennis
- Formal debate with roles
Lessons in this subject: Learn Topics · English
Practise — check a common mix-up
Speaking faster shows confidence.
Rebuttal means repeating your point louder.
Apply / Create — Debate & Reflection
Take part in a formal debate (3-minute speech + rebuttal), recorded, and write a 200-word reflection on what persuaded and why.
Evidence type: spoken explanation · accessible alternative always allowed (speak it, draw it, or show an adult).
How it is judged (rubric)
- Beginning: Delivers speech
- Developing: Structured with one device
- Secure: Structured, devices, responds to counter-argument
- Extending: Adapts live; reflective and precise
Explain — say what you did
Review later
We'll offer a quick memory check in 7, 21 and 45 days. Mark this done and your Today page will remind you gently.
For grown-ups · framework mappings
- aligned to UK NC · KS3 Spoken English
- aligned to Common Core · SL.9-10.4
Status: Live · reviewed
What's next?