Get every child talking, reasoning & listening

Animal-themed discussion motions with points for both sides and sentence stems, so even quieter pupils can join in. Perfect for oracy sessions, PSHE, or a lesson plenary.

How to run it (5 mins to set up)

Read the motion. Split the class (or a talk-partner pair) into For and Against. Give two minutes to prepare using the points below, then take turns. Encourage building on and challenging each other — not just stating opinions. Finish with a “which argument changed your mind?” reflection.

To agree / build“I agree with… and I'd add…” · “Building on that…”

To challenge“I see it differently because…” · “But have you thought about…?”

To give a reason“I think… because…” · “One reason is…”

To use evidence“For example…” · “We know that…”

Motions are designed to have no single “right” answer — the aim is reasoning and listening, not winning. Great alongside the persuasive-writing task in the Welfare scheme of work. New content. © PawSteps 2026.