Debating News

2018 HICES Debating Competition

Debating is not only about understanding the topic and knowing how to prove your arguments with evidence, but also about how to disprove your opponent’s arguments. The Final Preliminary Round for the 2018 HICES Debating Competition was held on Wednesday 9 May at William Clarke College. The Hills Grammar Junior School was represented by two debating teams in this competition: Hills Grammar Junior Team 1 and Hills Grammar Junior Team 2. Both teams were fearless as they argued against the topic “that we should teach coding instead of creative writing”. The confidence that comes with thorough preparation meant that The Hills Grammar Junior Debating Teams successfully anticipated counter arguments and skilfully clashed with their opponents, whilst maintaining their composure to the end.  The opposition schools, Hills Adventist and Arndell College were no match for the determination and eloquence of our Hills Grammar speakers. Both Hills Grammar Teams successfully proved that Creative Writing should not be compromised in favour of teaching Coding in schools, and they cleverly pointed out that both Coding and Creative Writing have significant educational value in the lives of children of the 21st century. Demonstrating their insight along with their debating skills, both teams won the argument, with Year 6 completing the competition with 4 points having won 2 of 4 debates, and Year 5 standing proudly, undefeated, in all four debates and with 8 points, qualifying to participate in the Finals.

Congratulations to both teams on their commitment and dedication. They have done Hills Grammar proud!

IPSHA Debating

Each Friday fortnight throughout Term 2, The Hills Grammar School is represented by two debating teams in the Friday afternoon IPSHA Debating Competition. In this competition the participants are encouraged to focus more on developing their debating skills, especially on engaging in the argument against their opponent. Each school prepares a negative and affirmative team on the topic. The first debate of 7 debates in the competition was held last Friday 11 May at Abbotsleigh Anglican School.  Last Friday, the topic of the debate was 'that technology is harmful to our friendships'.  The Year 5 team successfully argued against the topic, proving the many benefits of technology to friendships. Year 6 as the Affirmative team argued vigorously against their opponent’s case but in the end, conceded defeat. We are looking forward to the next debate on home ground against Knox Grammar School on Friday 25 May. The topic of this debate is 'that we should ban school uniforms'.

Congratulations to both teams for your commitment to preparation, and for your courage and skill in speaking before an audience.

Fiona Khoo | Junior School Teacher, Debating Coach