In preparation for learning how to debate, planning ahead can help students get ready for difficult questions and objections after a public speech.
After 'surviving' the plane crash role-play, students will need to defend their positions using problem-solving techniques such as these:
1) State the issues that are involved and why it is important that everyone listens to your speech. What are the variables that you can control? What are the variables that you cannot control?
2) State what differentiates your position or solution from anyone else's position. Why is your stance unique? In this scenario, what can you do better than anyone else can, or what can you offer that is superior?
3) List ahead of time your perceptions of your strengths and your weaknesses. Accentuate your strengths and downplay your weaknesses. In this scenario, even if you are a young child you could think of something of value to offer the group.
4) Examine your audience. What do they need and what can you provide to make sure that you are part of a "win-win" outcome?
5) Choose your words carefully. Use language that befits the situation. For example in this scenario, having your character threaten passengers with subsequent retaliation would be pointless if you were not among the survivors. So, after hearing bullying words why would anyone vote for your character?
