Building Oracy & Critical Thinking Skills  at Debating Club

The Debating Club, a vibrant weekly fixture for our Year 5 and 6 pupils, continues to thrive as a forum for dynamic and thoughtful discussion. This week, our young debaters tackled two particularly challenging motions, sparking intense debates and critical thinking. 

The first motion, “This house believes there is no longer a need for paper,” prompted students to consider the environmental impact of paper use and weigh it against the benefits of digital technology. The debate explored various aspects such as sustainability, technology accessibility, and the cultural significance of paper. 

The second debate was equally provocative: “All prisoners should be given one day of freedom a year.” This topic allowed students to delve into complex issues of human rights, rehabilitation, and public safety, encouraging them to think deeply about justice and societal norms. 

As part of their development in the club, students are working to collect skills stickers in their Debate Planet passports. Each sticker represents mastery of a specific oracy skill, such as articulating arguments clearly, listening critically, or engaging respectfully with opposing viewpoints. These passports serve as a personal log of their progress and achievements in refining their debating skills. 

The Debating Club not only enhances our students’ academic skills but also boosts their confidence and ability to express themselves effectively. It is inspiring to witness their growth as they navigate these complex topics with maturity and enthusiasm.