Quixote Debate

This debate-preparation worksheet is designed for Grades 7-10 and supports students in analyzing the complexity of Don Quixote as a literary character. Students examine the text to gather evidence for three possible interpretations-that Don Quixote is foolish, heroic, or both at once-then select a position to defend. The final task asks students to write a clear opening statement they could deliver in a formal class debate, strengthening both written and oral argument skills.

Learning Goals

• Argumentative Reasoning (Secondary ELA) – Develop a defensible claim about a complex character
• Textual Evidence Use – Collect and organize quotes and events to support multiple interpretations
• Character Interpretation – Evaluate Don Quixote’s actions through different critical lenses
• Speaking & Listening Skills – Prepare structured arguments for academic discussion or debate

Instructional Benefits

• Teacher-Created Resource – Aligned with middle and early high school ELA standards
• Balanced Perspective-Taking – Encourages students to consider and weigh multiple viewpoints
• Debate-Ready Structure – Guides students from evidence gathering to an opening statement
• Builds Critical Thinking – Reinforces that literature often allows for more than one valid interpretation
• Flexible Use – Ideal for debates, Socratic seminars, discussion prep, or argumentative writing support
• Low Prep – Print-and-use worksheet with clear sections and student-friendly prompts

This Quixote debate worksheet helps students move beyond simple labels to grapple with Don Quixote’s complexity as both a comic and meaningful figure. By preparing arguments for different perspectives and defending a chosen position with evidence, learners strengthen analytical thinking, argumentative writing, and speaking skills. Whether used for a formal debate or a discussion-based lesson, this activity promotes deep, thoughtful engagement with Cervantes’ enduring character.

This worksheet is part of our Don Quixote Worksheets collection.