Debating Update – Meeting and First Competition
On 24 February, we held our second debating meeting for the year. During this meeting, teams were finalised, although unfortunately some teams had to be cancelled due to clashes with other school events. The confirmed Year 10 team began preparing for their upcoming debate by working on the disclosed topic. We focused on developing arguments and discussing strategy, particularly how to play to the team’s individual strengths.
On 4 March, we participated in our first interschool debating competition, held over Zoom against Chaffey Secondary College.
Speaking for the negative side of the topic “That airlines should not be allowed to overbook flights” were Erica, Susan, and Eleanore, speaking in that order. The team presented a range of strong arguments and spoke with enthusiasm and conviction, with particularly passionate delivery from Susan.
Although the team did not win the debate overall, the adjudicator noted that the girls raised several strong points that the opposing team was unable to effectively dispute. Unfortunately, in the final speech, some new arguments were introduced. As debating rules do not allow new arguments in the concluding speech, this resulted in a technical breach. Additionally, a key point from the opposing team required clearer rebuttal.
These technical factors ultimately cost the team the win. However, the quality of the arguments themselves was very strong. In many ways, the team won the argument but lost the debate on technicalities, which provides valuable learning for future rounds.
Overall, it was a strong first performance and a useful experience to build on for upcoming debates.
Ms Jacob Marinelli | PE Teacher | Debating Program Leader | House Leader