CDS Middle School Debate Championship
On Monday, March 4, and Tuesday, March 5, the Paul C. Duckett Theatre was filled with anticipation and excitement as CDS Middle School students showcased their eloquence, critical thinking, and persuasive skills in the inaugural Middle School Debate Championship. This two-day event brought together young orators from Grades 7 and 8, who demonstrated their ability to craft compelling arguments, engage with complex topics, and present with confidence.
The Journey to the Finals
The competition kicked off with the semi-final rounds on Monday, where students took the stage to deliver powerful speeches and engage in rigorous debates. The level of preparation, composure, and articulation displayed by all participants was truly commendable, making the judges’ task of selecting finalists incredibly challenging.
Tuesday marked the final round, where the top debating teams from the semi-finals returned to compete for the title of Middle School Debate Champions. The finalists captivated their audience and impressed the judges with their ability to think on their feet, defend their viewpoints, and challenge opposing arguments.
The event was hosted by student emcees Isla Gunning and Michael Chen, who set the stage and highlighted the key criteria that the judges - CDS debate coaches Mrs. Wyndham-West and Mr. Robinson - would be assessing throughout the competition:
- Analysis & Organization – A well-structured argument with logical flow.
- Logic & Evidence – Points backed by credible research and examples.
- Teamwork – Effective collaboration in team debates.
- Delivery – Clarity, confidence, and persuasiveness in presentation.
- Clash & Refutation – Engaging with and countering opposing viewpoints effectively.
The audience was also reminded of their role in fostering a respectful and encouraging environment, ensuring that each speaker was met with attentive listening and unwavering support. Students Thomas Merianos, along with timekeeper Austin Cheng, ensured the debate was kept within the appropriate time limits and that each speaker was given their fair allotted amount of time.
Congratulations to all our debaters. In Grade 7: Vivienne Chen, William Chen, William Li and Oakley Stephenson. In Grade 8: Lily Gottdenker and Thomas Pitts.
A big round of applause to Grade 8 students Reya Kumar and Lina Sweeney for their successful achievement as the winners of this year’s CDS Middle School Debate Championship.
We wish you all more success - your voices truly made an impact!
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.
