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Debating complements curriculum

�����鶹��Ƶ students brought forth classroom knowledge and strong teamwork skills to uphold long-standing tradition of excelling in the Independent Schools’ Debating Association (ISDA) competition.

Eight teams of �����鶹��Ƶ students from Years 6 to 12 put their debating skills and knowledge of current affairs to good use this season, with five teams including Years 7, 9 and 10 making it through to the Octos round. Primary A (Charlotte, Lila, Chloe, Emily and Zoe) and Senior B (Nina, Clare, Kate, Veronica and Rebecca) teams made it through to Quarter Finals where they debated St Aloysius’ College and Sydney Grammar respectively. Both teams debated with sophistication and good sportsmanship, but were ultimately defeated by their strong opposition.

History teacher and debating coordinator Miss Charlotte Karsten said it was encouraging to see students in �����鶹��Ƶ’s Senior B team draw on examples from their Ancient and Modern History classes to debated in the negative on the topic ‘That developed countries should actively seek to remove items of cultural significance from conflict zones’.

“The students who have historically been involved in debating often have a strong sense of social justice and equality,” Miss Karsten said.

“It has been interesting watching these girls debate from angles that they do not always believe in and to see how they use their critical thinking skills to develop arguments that reflect multiple perspectives.”

“It was so encouraging to see … in action the way debating can compliment the curriculum and consolidate understanding.

“Congratulations to all students who participated in this ISDA season and upheld �����鶹��Ƶ’s reputation as a force to be reckoned with. A big thank you also to the parents who have watched their daughters debate at a range of venues throughout the season.”