Debate Society is an activity that intends to uphold the spirit of debating within our school. This would be a student-led CCA, run by 2 passionate Debaters who have been in the Debate Society for 5 years with competition experience. Students would first learn the basics of formulating an argument and the logical fallacies that Debating teaches us to identify.
The CCA would run until 5:30 (2 Hours) to ensure students are able to receive a motion and be split into groups (of 3 or 4) to prepare their argument, and then return after 30-45 minutes to start the Debate. This would mean there are two debates running simultaneously every week. After the Debate, we will have both peer feedback and the leaders will give feedback to each individual member and group - looking over the whole argument, how it could be developed better and what went well. Ideally, students would be able to improve each week and develop an enthusiasm and respect for the art of argumentation. Motions can range from amusing lighthearted topics (eg. Marvel or DC, Student Uniforms) as well as more complex relevant ideas (whether Performance Enhancing drugs should be allowed within sports) thus encouraging students to engage in a range of ideas.
CAS Strand: Creativity
Students are encouraged to explore their own sense of original thinking and expression, both in developing a unique writing and speaking style. Throughout the course of the term, students will also form interpersonal relationships across grades and with those with differing opinions, styles, and approach to debating. Students are also taught to think outside of the box, crafting solutions to real world problems.
Lasallian Principles: Quality education and Respect for All Persons
Respect for All Persons:
While Debate inherently pits a group (Proposition) against another (Opposition), students learn more importantly how to communicate with respect. Following each Debate, students will give constructive criticism to the opponent group, learning simultaneously how to appreciate others’ strengths and weaknesses, as well as learning how to take feedback
Quality Education:
Debate encourages students to explore beyond our curriculum and pushes us to be involved in current real-world affairs. Debate does not teach students what to think but how to think; Debate teaches students to form their own arguments using persuasion techniques and logic.