Learning & Teaching News
ICAS Awards
Anychild who was absent when their ICAS Certificate was presented will receive theirs at next Monday's Assembly (8/12).
House Debating
As part of their English learning in Term 4, all students in Year 5/6 participate in a House Debate. The benefits of debating are immense, and can be categorised into 4 areas:
Thinking and research skills
Analytical thinking skills.
The ability to think clearly under pressure.
A strong sense of curiosity and a love of learning about issues and the world around them.
An ability to gather and evaluate information from a range of sources.
Informed exchange of ideas.
Initiative in applying thinking skills critically and creatively.
Communication skills
Coherent and confident expression of ideas in collaboration with teammates.
The ability to coherently and convincingly argue a point of view for their team, which they may not personally support.
Public speaking skills.
Word power and strength of language.
Social skills
Self-esteem and self-confidence.
A sense of understanding, tolerance and acceptance of different views on issues.
Respect of the right of others to hold differing and alternative ideas.
Sportsmanship
Generosity of spirit between participants, across all school sectors.
Teamwork and sportsmanship.
Valuing participation more than the outcome.
A sense of responsibility to be humble in victory and gracious in defeat.
The ability to respond appropriately to constructive feedback.
Students in the other levels attend these debates in support of their house and this exposure is a valuable asset when it is their turn to debate for their house when they are older.
The schedule and topics are below. Parents and friends are most welcome to come and watch.
The results of Round 3 are below as well as the ladder after the 3 rounds.
Round 3
Clarke (273) def Perkins (271) - Best Speaker: Arlo P. 2nd Best: Raf L
Fraser (280) def Jackson (272) - Best Speaker: Jacob Y. 2nd Best: Thomas C
This means that in the Finals which will be at 2.20pm on Monday 8th December, Perkins will debate against Fraser for first and second. Clarke will debate against Jackson for third and fourth. As the higher placed team in their debate, Perkins and Clarke will get to choose whether they want to be Affirmative or Negative once they hear the topic. The challenge is they will only get the topic the morning of the 8th December and so will have just that day to prepare.
Nick Byrne
Learing & Teaching Leader