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2015-02-08
We began the class by introducing ourselves and we did a quick icebreaker. Next, Kevin informed the class about the topic of discussion for the next couple classes; civil disobedience. Initially, the students did not have a very good idea of what this was. Kevin discussed famous figures who have engaged in non-violent protests and broke down the word into small pieces while the students took notes. After the kids had a good understanding of what civil disobedience was, I began talking to them about the structure of a debate. I explained how there were two sides in a standard debate; affirmative and negative, and I talked about the components of a debate such as constructive arguments, cross-examinations, rebuttals, and closing arguments.
After that Kevin, and I split the class into two teams of three for a quick, mini-debate. One of the students suggested we debate the topic of soda in schools. Kevin and I assigned each team to take the role of either the affirmative side or negative side. We gave them about 7 minutes to talk to each other and come up with an argument for their side. During this time, Kevin and I roamed the classroom, listening to the kids talk to each other and helping them form ideas. After the 7 minutes were up, each student went to the front of the classroom and spoke for a minute about their argument. Kevin and I gave constructive criticism to the kids and had them get back into their groups to revise and improve their arguments. Finally, each student spoke in front of the classroom once more, with a much more improved argument than the first time.
We concluded the class by assessing the students’ skill levels by seeing what they were comfortable with and what they were weak at. I told the students that there are three major skills involved with debating; researching, writing arguments, and public speaking. I asked everyone to write down on a piece of paper, which of these skills they were strong at and comfortable with, and which of them they needed to improve on. I think that Kevin and I have a good sense of where everyone is at skillswise.
We were very pleased to see that many of the students expressed interest in what we were saying and showed a desire to learn. Can’t wait for next class!
If you were absent:
- We will be doing research in class. If you have a laptop and you can get your parent’s permission to bring in next class, that would be ideal. If not, email Kevin and myself. We will work something out.
- Kevin and I did assign homework this class. By next class you must:
- Research: Emerson, Thoreau, one person who supports civil disobedience, one person who doesn’t
- If any students will not be here next class on 2/22, please email Kevin and I in advance.