Melanie Brown
7th Grade Social Studies and ELA Teacher
Ellsworth, Maine

In this track talk, we will briefly discuss the importance of having arguments, discussions and debates in the Middle School (or any level) classroom that is respectful and considerate of other viewpoints. Teachers can guide students (of all ages) by modeling and teaching how to back up arguments with evidence and practice listening. This practice will encourage students to use evidence and consider other viewpoints in order to have more productive arguments and debates with one another in all content areas.