Explore Identities and Belonging in Grade 7

Teaching Quebec Culture and Citizenship through debates brings energy to the classroom and encourages student engagement. Dokoma Debates, designed to foster reflection, offer topics that resonate with Grade 7 learners. To structure an effective debate, clearly define discussion rules: speaking turns, mutual respect, and active listening. Then, present a thought-provoking topic, for example:

• “Do teenagers resemble children more, or adults more?”
• “Is it beneficial for a young person to live without a smartphone?”
• “Is being easily influenced a flaw during adolescence?”
• “Should teenagers be allowed to dress however they want at school?”

After outlining the issues, encourage each group to prepare strong arguments backed by personal insights or relevant examples. Displaying key points on your interactive whiteboard can assist with note-taking and clarity. Allow time for open discussion, followed by a concluding synthesis where participants summarize the main takeaways. This structure promotes both verbal expression and attentive listening, reinforcing the principles of Quebec culture and citizenship. Over the course of these debates, students gain a deeper understanding of their identities, their sense of belonging, and the various facets of collective life.