Set 1
issue: Should schools require students to wear uniforms?
claim: Yes, schools should require uniforms.
reasoning: Uniforms reduce social pressure about clothing, save families money, and help students focus more on learning instead of appearance.
issue: Should schools require students to wear uniforms?
claim: No, schools should not require uniforms.
reasoning: Uniforms limit students’ freedom of expression, can be uncomfortable, and may not solve deeper problems like bullying or distraction.
issue: Should the voting age be lowered to 16?
claim: Yes, lower the voting age to 16.
reasoning: Many 16-year-olds work, pay taxes, and are affected by government decisions, so they deserve a voice.
issue: Should the voting age be lowered to 16?
claim: No, keep the voting age at 18.
reasoning: Most 16-year-olds lack life experience and maturity, so waiting until 18 ensures more informed decisions.
issue: Should cell phones be banned in classrooms?
claim: Yes, ban cell phones in classrooms.
reasoning: Phones are distracting, reduce focus, and make cheating easier during class.
issue: Should cell phones be banned in classrooms?
claim: No, allow cell phones in classrooms.
reasoning: Phones can be used as learning tools, for emergencies, and to teach responsible technology use.
issue: Should college be free for everyone?
claim: Yes, college should be free.
reasoning: Free college increases access to education, reduces student debt, and creates a more skilled workforce.
issue: Should college be free for everyone?
claim: No, college should not be free.
reasoning: Free college would be very costly, lower personal responsibility, and may reduce the value of a degree.
issue: Should plastic bags be banned?
claim: Yes, ban plastic bags.
reasoning: Plastic bags pollute the environment, harm wildlife, and take hundreds of years to decompose.
issue: Should plastic bags be banned?
claim: No, do not ban plastic bags.
reasoning: Plastic bags are cheap, convenient, and alternatives like paper bags may also harm the environment.
issue: Should homework be eliminated in schools?
claim: Yes, eliminate homework.
reasoning: Homework adds stress, reduces family time, and often doesn’t improve learning outcomes.
issue: Should homework be eliminated in schools?
claim: No, keep homework in schools.
reasoning: Homework reinforces learning, builds discipline, and helps prepare students for future challenges.
Set 2
issue: What is the best diet?
claim: The best diet is a whole-food, plant-based diet.
reasoning: It reduces risk of heart disease, provides essential nutrients, and supports long-term health.
issue: Should business students learn calculus?
claim: Yes, business students should learn calculus.
reasoning: Calculus helps with financial modeling, optimization, and developing strong analytical skills.
issue: What should the US government do about forest fires?
claim: Increase funding for forest management and fire prevention.
reasoning: Removing excess fuel, controlled burns, and investing in prevention reduces long-term disaster costs.
issue: Should college athletes be paid?
claim: Yes, college athletes should be paid.
reasoning: They generate huge revenues for schools and risk injury, so they deserve financial compensation.
issue: Should cities ban cars in downtown areas?
claim: Yes, ban cars in downtown areas.
reasoning: It reduces pollution, improves safety, and makes cities more walkable and livable.
issue: Should high school students have a part-time job?
claim: Yes, high school students should work part-time.
reasoning: Jobs teach responsibility, time management, and provide extra income.
issue: Should the government ban junk food advertising to children?
claim: Yes, ban junk food advertising to children.
reasoning: Ads influence kids’ eating habits and contribute to obesity and poor health.
issue: Should the US adopt daylight savings year-round?
claim: Yes, adopt daylight savings year-round.
reasoning: Longer daylight in evenings boosts energy savings, safety, and mental health.
issue: Should schools replace textbooks with tablets?
claim: Yes, schools should replace textbooks with tablets.
reasoning: Tablets are lighter, reduce paper waste, and give access to interactive resources.
issue: Should voting be mandatory?
claim: Yes, voting should be mandatory.
reasoning: It increases civic participation, ensures representation, and strengthens democracy.