Debate Preparation

This argumentative worksheet is designed for Grades 9-12 and prepares students for a structured class debate on a central interpretive question in Death of a Salesman: Is Willy Loman a tragic hero, or is he primarily a victim of society? Students choose a position, gather and organize textual evidence, develop supporting arguments, anticipate counterarguments, and craft effective rebuttals. The final task asks students to write a concise opening statement suitable for live debate, reinforcing both written and oral communication skills.

Learning Goals

• Argumentative Reasoning (Secondary ELA) – Develop a clear, defensible claim about a literary character
• Textual Evidence Use – Support arguments with relevant quotes and events from the play
• Critical Interpretation – Evaluate character responsibility versus societal influence
• Speaking & Listening Skills – Prepare structured, persuasive oral arguments

Instructional Benefits

• Teacher-Created Resource – Aligned with high school ELA standards for argument and discussion
• Debate-Ready Structure – Guides students step-by-step from claim to opening statement
• Encourages Multiple Perspectives – Promotes nuanced thinking rather than simple answers
• Builds Confidence in Oral Expression – Helps students enter debate prepared and focused
• Flexible Use – Ideal for Socratic seminars, formal debates, or argumentative writing prep
• Low Prep – Print-and-use worksheet with clear sections and prompts

This debate preparation worksheet helps students engage deeply with Death of a Salesman by evaluating Willy Loman through competing critical lenses. By organizing evidence, anticipating opposition, and preparing a strong opening statement, learners strengthen argumentative writing, critical reasoning, and speaking skills. Whether used as a pre-debate activity or an assessment of interpretive understanding, this resource supports thoughtful, text-driven discussion of one of modern drama’s most debated characters.

This worksheet is part of our Death of a Salesman Worksheets collection.