Talk of the Town: Grades 7 & 8 Debate Their Way to Success
Whether it is presenting in the classroom or speaking in front of an audience of hundreds, the importance of public speaking is everywhere. Over the past few weeks, all Grade 7 and 8 students have been actively engaged in exciting and enriching public speaking and debate units in their respective English classes. In collaboration with CDS Debate coaches, Mr. Robinson and Mrs. Wyndham-West, students have been honing their communication and critical-thinking skills while exploring the art of effective speech and argumentation.
Public speaking and debate offer students a unique opportunity to develop and refine key skills that will serve them well both inside and outside the classroom. Through this unit, students have been challenged to think on their feet, express their ideas clearly and persuasively, and listen actively to opposing viewpoints. They have learned how to craft compelling arguments, structure speeches with confidence, and deliver their messages with poise and impact.
During their participation in lively debates, our middle schoolers have demonstrated impressive growth in their ability to communicate effectively, analyze complex topics, and engage in thoughtful discussions. Beyond building confidence and enhancing their presentation skills, public speaking and debate foster essential life skills such as critical thinking, active listening, teamwork, and resilience. These experiences empower students to become articulate leaders and empathetic communicators, capable of expressing their ideas with clarity and conviction.
A huge thank you to Mr. Robinson and Mrs. Wyndham-West for their expertise, guidance, and enthusiasm in running these outstanding units. We look forward to seeing our students continue to apply these valuable skills in all areas of their learning journey.
Finally, an exciting Middle School in-school competition is just around the corner. Our students will have the chance to put their debate skills to the test, and we can't wait to see who rises to the challenge!
Land Acknowledgment
The Country Day School wishes to recognize and acknowledge the land on which the school operates. Our nearest Indigenous Nations are now the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and the Chippewas of Georgina Island. The Dish with One Spoon Wampum covenant is often cited as an example of the shared responsibility for caring for these lands among the Huron-Wendat, Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee peoples who would call these their traditional territories. CDS respects the relationship with these lands and recognizes that our connection to this land can be strengthened by our continued relationship with all First Nations, by acknowledging our shared responsibility to respect and care for the land and waters for future generations.
School Information
Junior, Middle and Senior Schools
13415 Dufferin Street, King, Ontario L7B 1K5
(905) 833-1220
communications@cds.on.ca
admissions@cds.on.ca
Founded in 1972, The Country Day School is a co-educational private school offering programs in JK-12 and located on 100 acres north of Toronto in King.
13415 Dufferin Street, King, Ontario L7B 1K5
(905) 833-1220
communications@cds.on.ca
admissions@cds.on.ca
Founded in 1972, The Country Day School is a co-educational private school offering programs in JK-12 and located on 100 acres north of Toronto in King.
