What happens when students are encouraged to argue both sides of an issue?
This semester, a group of Year 6 students discovered that debating is about far more than winning an argument. Through our growing interschool debating program, students took on the challenge of debating against Carey Baptist Grammar School and Melbourne Grammar School – Grimwade House, learning how to research complex topics, build persuasive cases and respond to unexpected questions in the moment.
While public speaking was certainly part of the experience, some of the biggest lessons happened behind the scenes. Students learned to collaborate as a team, listen carefully to different viewpoints and consider perspectives they may not have previously explored.
For Grace (Year 6), one of the most rewarding parts was stepping outside her own way of thinking.
“Something I enjoyed was investigating not only one side of the argument but also the other, as looking at the debate from a different perspective was extremely fascinating.”
She also discovered that debating requires plenty of quick thinking.
“Most of the rebuttals I had prepared were nothing like what I had expected, which encouraged me to think on the spot!”
Reflecting on the experience, Grace believes debating has helped her develop skills that extend well beyond the classroom, including teamwork and public speaking.
“I think debating has helped me grow new skills that most classes wouldn’t be able to teach me.”
Following the success of the program’s launch earlier this year, it has been exciting to see even more Year 6 students embrace the opportunity to challenge their thinking, build confidence and find their voice. A special thank you to Ms Sarah McKenzie for creating experiences that encourage students to think deeply, speak confidently and engage respectfully with the world around them.
This is learning at its best: not simply knowing what you think, but being willing to explore why others might think differently.
