Start with the languages in the room
Children’s Week 2026 celebrates every child’s right to use their own language. Begin by listing the languages students speak, hear at home or would love to learn. Keep it an invitation rather than a survey: nobody needs to share more than they want to. A long, varied list shows students that this topic belongs to all of them.
Give the argument a real reader
Persuasion works best when students know who they are trying to convince. Ask them to write to the principal or the school council, and to choose one language rather than “more languages”. One clear choice makes it easier to give specific reasons: talking with family, understanding a neighbour, travelling, or simply enjoying how another language sounds.
Let students meet the other side
A fair argument admits that there are costs. Time in a busy timetable, finding a teacher and choosing between languages are all reasonable concerns. Have partners raise one concern each, then add a sentence that answers it. Students who respond to a real objection usually write stronger conclusions, because they have already tested their reasons.
Celebrate the reasons, not just the result
When students share, focus on the reasons that surprised the class. A story about a grandparent, a favourite song or a place they hope to visit can be more convincing than a general claim about jobs. Collect a few of the strongest sentences for a display, with students’ permission, so the class can see how varied good reasons can be.
