Disciplined Discussion: The Chairperson

The Chairperson is selected from the Lead Speakers and takes responsibility for managing the discussion. Their job is not to dominate the debate or decide who is right, but to ensure that everyone has an opportunity to contribute and that the discussion remains focused, balanced and productive.

What does the Chairperson do?

• Opens the discussion: Introduces the central question and explains the purpose of the debate.

• Manages contributions: Invites speakers to contribute, ensures different viewpoints are heard and prevents individuals from dominating.

• Keeps the discussion focused: Brings speakers back to the question when the conversation goes off track.

• Encourages deeper thinking: Asks follow-up questions, requests evidence and invites alternative interpretations.

• Manages time: Ensures the discussion progresses and leaves time for a conclusion.

• Closes the discussion: Invites the Summariser to present the main arguments and final judgement.

Five essential skills

1. Active listening | Follow arguments carefully so you can identify when to ask a question, invite a response or move the discussion forward.

2. Impartiality | Remain neutral when managing the discussion, even if you personally disagree with a speaker.

3. Confident communication |Speak clearly, give concise instructions and intervene politely when necessary.

4. Inclusive leadership | Encourage quieter students to participate without putting them under unnecessary pressure.

5. Time management | Recognise when an argument has been explored sufficiently and when the group should move on.

 How the Chairperson will operate

Opening the debate | Introduce the question about Beyoncé, Black Panther and bell hooks. Remind everyone to use evidence and respond respectfully. "Our central question today is whether positive Black representation necessarily leads to genuine liberation."

Inviting initial viewpoints | Ask Lead Speakers to establish different arguments before opening the discussion to other roles. "Can we begin with an argument supporting these representations as empowering?"

Developing the discussion | Invite Evidence Finders to support claims and Challengers to test assumptions. "What specific evidence supports that interpretation?"

Balancing participation | Keep track of who has spoken, invite alternative perspectives and politely manage interruptions. "We've explored that perspective. Could someone offer a different interpretation?"

Bringing the discussion to a close | Signal when time is running out and invite the Summariser to synthesise the strongest arguments. "We've heard several competing perspectives. Can our Summariser bring these together into a reasoned conclusion?"

Chairperson's useful phrases

Someone dominates     "Thank you. Let's hear from somebody who hasn't contributed yet."

An argument lacks evidence       "Can you substantiate that with an example?"

The debate becomes one-sided    "What would someone who disagrees say?"

The discussion goes off topic       "How does that connect to our central question?"

Someone makes a strong point    "Would anyone like to build on or challenge that?"

wo people disagree

"identify exactly where your interpretations differ?"

e identify exactly where your interpretations differ?"