While middle schoolers may already have turned arguing into an art form, our Grade 8 students refined this skill by learning the structure and sequence of a formal classroom debate and how to employ persuasive strategies effectively and recognize logical fallacies.
We live in a world where we communicate with others all the time. Debating is a more formal way of communicating. It builds confidence and self-esteem, and develops critical thinking and reasoning skills. If we can speak publicly and convey our ideas and thoughts coherently, we have a valuable tool that can aid us in our public, private and future lives.
Debating is different from public speaking because it includes rebuttal - proving that the opposition has arguments that are wrong. Some students found themselves having to argue a position that they personally disagreed with. Others saw it as an opportunity to consider a view that may have been different from their own.
Students debated the resolution: “The world needs more Canada” and argued whether other countries should adopt more of Canada’s values, systems, and ways of life.
Teams explored a variety of societal dimensions, including: government and democracy, health care, diversity and immigration, peacekeeping and international relations, the economy, and human rights.
Students worked in PRO and CON teams to conduct research and build their arguments and counterarguments. Some even resorted to surveying their peers and teachers in an attempt to collect relevant and timely data and prepare for a spirited debate that was adjudicated by their fellow classmates.
A designated Moderator and Time Keeper ensured that the debate remained organized and fair, and that speakers stayed within their allotted times to give each team an equal opportunity to present and defend their arguments.
“Imagine a world with more countries like Canada — a world that is more inclusive, more caring, more peaceful, and more just,” Candice stated in the closing statement for the PRO team. That is why we believe the world needs more Canada.”
“The world does not need more Canada,” Teddy insisted in the final argument for the CON team. “Canada’s health care is sick, Canada’s military is ineffective, and Canada’s economy is failing," "And now Donald J. Trump is talking about making Canada the 51st state. Those threats are real, and if we don't do anything about this problem, we will become Americans.”
The CON team won the debate in 8Purple.
Those strong arguments were shared by the CON team in the other Grade 8 class.
"Canada has a weak immigration policy that strains our healthcare and housing systems," Soren argued for the CON team. "Canada’s economy is entering the pit of hell. The other side’s argument sounds like it’s been copied out of a National Geographic magazine. Let’s be realistic: our military spending is pathetic. We don't even meet the 2% set by NATO. All in all, the world does not need much more Canada."
"We can all agree that Canada is never going to be perfect,” Camilla stated on behalf of the PRO team in her class. “Does the world need more Canada? Would the world benefit if there was a greater Canadian influence? Our answer to the resolution as stated, is YES, the world does need more Canada.”
The PRO team won the debate in 8Green.
For their first formal debate of the school year, the Grade 8s did not disappoint. With poise, preparation, and passion, they demonstrated not only their growing mastery of persuasive speaking, but also their respect for differing viewpoints. Their ability to think critically, argue respectfully, and collaborate effectively set a strong tone for the year ahead and proved that spirited discussion and thoughtful dialogue can go hand in hand.
If this first debate is any indication, the Grade 8s are well on their way to becoming confident, articulate, and compelling communicators.
