To help ninth graders feel more confident when making arguments, teachers can try some simple ideas:

1. Easy Steps: Teach students an easy way to make their arguments using a method called "Claim, Evidence, Reasoning."

   • First, they say what they believe (claim).
   • Next, they share facts to support it (evidence).
   • Finally, they explain why those facts matter (reasoning).

2. Debate Activities: Organize small debates in class.

   • Let students argue both sides of a topic.
   • This helps them think deeply and understand different opinions.

3. Feedback from Friends: Create a system where students can help each other by giving and receiving feedback on their arguments.

   • This not only improves their skills but also helps them feel more confident by working as a team.

4. Current Topics: Discuss current issues that are important to students.

   • For example, talking about how social media affects our lives can make the activity more interesting and relevant.

By practicing these ideas regularly, teachers can create a friendly environment where students can build their discussion and debate skills.