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Eighth-graders learn to debate

SAN ONOFRE — One doesn’t need to go see the movie “The Great Debaters” to see a great debate. Mrs. Herter’s eighth-graders at San Onofre School, one of Fallbrook Elementary School District’s two Camp Pendleton schools, finished their language arts course by learning the art of debate.

The students look forward to the debate unit all year long, anxiously wondering who they will be paired with and what topic they will debate.

Students begin the unit by conducting a small amount of research on various topics presented on a questionnaire. Students know that they will be placed in groups (pro or con) according to how they answer the 35 questions.

For example, two students who share the same belief that “human cloning is a good idea” will be placed on an affirmative team. Two others who do not think it is a good idea will oppose the issue.

Other topics include “Should tobacco companies be held liable for smoking-related illnesses?” and “Does consistent reading usually raise students’ grades in school?”

Through the process, the students learn that their opinions will not win a debate; rather, solid evidence based on scientific research usually aids students in a victory. Thus begins their journey of collecting data such as charts, graphs and research that supports their position.

Once they have collected the necessary research, they each write research reports and begin preparing for the ensuing debates. Part of the process includes each team writing an opening and closing statement, as well as investigating the opposing research so that they will be ready for what their opponents might bring forth on the day of the debate.

Students must learn the history of debates, the general format and rules that everyone must follow.

Typically, two students serve on the affirmative side and two students oppose. The other students in the class enjoy watching the debate and are allowed to ask questions of the panel members during the rebuttal process.

At the conclusion, the winning team is usually obvious, as the research usually points in one direction or the other.

Mrs. Herter teaches this unit to fulfill several California State Standards in reading, writing, listening and speaking.

 

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