On the crisp winter morning of 8th January, 2021 the Junior School hosted an Online Debating Challenge for the boys of Class 3.
This first of a kind event was the brainchild of the Junior School Headmistress, Mrs. Kaushal and was taken up with much enthusiasm during the Elocution Classes by the Elocution teacher. The debates were conducted initially as a class activity where the boys got a wonderful opportunity to present their views about interesting topics. From the host of class events, two students were selected to represent their respective sections for the final event.
Debating has many benefits in the classroom. It not only helps in critical thinking and reasoning, but also builds self-confidence.
The final event began with an interesting prelude about stage fright. Through an eloquent poem presentation, the boys elaborated ways to tackle stage fright and showcased the importance of self-expression and confidence.
Through an acrostic poem, the students highlighted the benefits of debating in class. The participants encouraged one and all to embrace success which comes in all sizes and find a voice to express themselves.
The debate topics were carefully chosen according to the age group and interest of the participants. The boys debated on five different topics ranging from ‘Primary schools should have a mid week off!’ to the point of discussion whether ‘Children must follow a timetable at home!’.
The students came up with detailed arguments and reasons to support their motion and negate the points of the opposition.
Whether it was debating about ‘No school uniforms for students!’ or ‘No exams till grade 5!’, the students had well crafted arguments and put their points across with conviction, strength and logical reasoning. The participants left no stone unturned to prove their point when it came to the topic ‘Computers should replace books in schools’. They cited well-placed arguments and real life examples from online teaching scenario to further support their case.
The debate speeches were followed by a beautiful PowerPoint presentation tracing the journey of how the boys prepared for their challenge, looking for the arguments, preparing the speeches, working on the delivery, voice modulations and expressions. The presentation indeed brought smiles on the faces of one and all.
The event was judged by Ms Sisha Joseph, English teacher from the Middle School. She applauded the confidence and conviction of the budding orators as she declared the results for the Best Speaker-For and Against.
We had our eminent Principal, Brother Miranda as the guest of honour. The other esteemed guests were Mrs. Sheel, Headmistress, Middle School and Mr. Chopra, Administrator, Senior School.
Brother Miranda in his concluding speech encouraged the boys to understand the essence of debating. He emphasised on paying attention to the arguments of the opponents and have a listening ear. He applauded the efforts put in by the students for their speeches and presentations. Mrs. Kaushal, Headmistress of the Junior School addressed the budding debaters in the end. She appreciated the event and was all praise for the boys to have taken up the challenge during the Elocution Classes. She further encouraged the boys to hone their speaking and listening skills and continue working dedicatedly.
