125 Winning Debate Topics for Middle School Students

Teach students to make effective arguments.

When students learn to debate, they gain valuable life skills. Debates teach kids to research their topic, make informed choices, and argue effectively using facts instead of emotion. This list of middle school debate topics encompasses both serious and lighthearted ideas for kids ages 10 to 14. Each topic includes a link to an article from a reliable source that provides pros and/or cons to help kids make their arguments.

School and Education Debate Topics

Year-round school is better for students.- middle school debate topics
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Schools should give middle school students more recess time.- middle school debate topics
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Technology and Entertainment Debate Topics

The minimum age to own a smartphone should be 16.
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Playing video games makes you smarter.- middle school debate topics
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Life and Ethics Debate Topics

All people should be vegetarians.
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The driving age should be lowered to 14.- middle school debate topics
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Fun and Funny Debate Topics

There is intelligent life on other planets.
Fiction is better than non-fiction.
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Controversial Middle School Debate Topics

These middle school debate topics are pretty contentious and might not be appropriate for all students or every classroom. But if your middle schoolers are ready to take on more serious debates, try these important questions.

We shouldn't allow young children to play contact sports like football.
Electric vehicles are better than gas-powered ones.

What are your favorite middle school debate topics? Come share in the We Are Teachers HELPLINE group on Facebook.

Plus, check out 75 Funny Debate Topics for Kids of All Ages.

Looking for debate topics for middle school and junior high students? This roundup ranges from lighthearted to serious, ideal for any class.