How to Teach Middle School Students to Have Better Arguments

Explore strategies for teaching middle school students to engage in more productive arguments and civil discourse in this insightful panel discussion. Delve into the Better Arguments Project's curriculum, designed to equip students with skills for navigating diverse viewpoints and bridging ideological divides. Learn how to foster intellectual, social, and emotional growth through argument-related instruction that goes beyond traditional debate formats. Discover techniques for unpacking lessons, utilizing digital tools, and addressing the challenges of national discourse. Gain valuable insights from education experts on moderating discussions, embracing radical humanity, and creating an environment that encourages open, ongoing dialogue. Understand the importance of vulnerability and relationship-building in transforming how students approach arguments and engage with differing perspectives.

Introduction
How do you see civil discourse changing
National discourse
Bad arguments
How to unpack a lesson
Digital tools
Shadow sides
Teaching the curriculum
Moderate yourself
Radical humanity
Changing the argument
guardrails
transformation
ongoing
open discussion
be vulnerable
relationships