Debate on Change

This persuasive analysis worksheet supports students in Grades 5, 6, and 7 as they develop argumentative writing, critical thinking, and evidence-based reasoning through A Christmas Carol. By evaluating whether Ebenezer Scrooge’s transformation is believable, learners analyze character development, motivation, and theme while supporting a clear position with textual evidence and logical explanation.

Learning Goals

• Argumentative Writing & Reasoning (Grades 5-7): Students take a clear stance on Scrooge’s transformation and defend it with organized reasons.
• Text Evidence & Support: Learners cite specific events, dialogue, and actions from the text to strengthen their arguments.
• Critical Literary Interpretation: Students analyze character change, realism, and author intent.
• Debate Preparation & Discussion Skills: Learners practice forming claims and explanations suitable for written or oral discussion.

Instructional Benefits

• Teacher-Created Resource: Designed by educators to align with upper elementary and middle school ELA standards.
• Structured Argument Format: Guides students through claim, reasons, and evidence.
• Encourages Multiple Perspectives: Supports respectful debate and differing interpretations.
• Flexible Use: Ideal for persuasive writing, discussion prep, assessments, or homeschool lessons.

This debate on change worksheet helps students strengthen comprehension and analytical thinking by examining the credibility of Scrooge’s moral transformation. By connecting interpretation with persuasion, learners improve reasoning, textual support, and confidence in expressing ideas. Whether used for written arguments or class discussion, this printable activity offers a clear, low-prep way to deepen understanding of character development and theme in A Christmas Carol.

This worksheet is part of our A Christmas Carol collection.