Debating from Kindy to Year 6

​

"It is better to debate a question without settling it, than to settle a question without debating it." ~ Joseph Joubert

 

We live in a world where we communicate with others all the time. Debating is just a more formal way of communicating. It is the activity that brings the art of reading, thinking and speaking together in one place. It builds self-esteem in students. It enhances their confidence and courage. If we can speak publicly and convey our ideas and thoughts coherently and passionately, we have a valuable tool that can aid us in our public, private and future lives. We start introducing students to debating and public speaking from Kindy, right through to Year 6.

 

We know that debating builds other life skills such as the ability to work in a team, interact socially and engage with a topic and effectively deliver the information to others. The students work together to share ideas and information, play games that facilitate the development of debating skills and watch videos of debates that are critically evaluated.

​

​

Public Speaking Kindergarten to Year 6

​

Each year Sacred Heart holds a Public Speaking Competition. Before the competition students are taught the key skills for Public Speaking for their grade. Children then compete for a place in the whole school competition. Finalists are chosen from each grade and all students attend either the junior or senior competition. Speeches are judged on set criteria and the winners are chosen by an external, impartial judge. The Public Speaking competition is highly valued and showcases the student's growing confidence and skill in the very important life skill.

​