A Brief But Spectacular Take On Debating Democracy
Ask students: What entity has helped over 100 New York City schools get access to debate training for students? Why do you think Erick believes respect is a huge factor in a debate?
Summary
The New York City Urban Debate League is the largest in the nation. Over the past ten years, it has helped over 100 New York City schools get access to debate training for students. Francis and Erick are two middle school students who participate in the league. They share their Brief But Spectacular take on debate and democracy.
For a transcript of this story, click here.
News wrap alternative: Check out recent segments from the NewsHour, and choose the story you’re most interested in watching. You can make a Google doc copy of discussion questions that work for any of the stories here.
Five Facts
- What entity has helped over 100 New York City schools get access to debate training for students?
- What does Francis suggest students need in order to have a good debate?
- Why do you think Erick believes respect is a huge factor in a debate?
- When did Erick begin debating?
- How is debate important for the real world, according to Francis?
Focus Questions
What do you think is the most crucial factor in having a good debate? Why?
News analysis: Why do you think the NewsHour interviewed two middle school students interested in debate to discuss democracy?
Alternative: See, Think, Wonder: What did you notice? What did the story make you think? What story would you want to find out more about? Where would you go to learn more?
For More
What students can do: Complete this Brief But Spectacular lesson and share your story with friends, family and us @NewsHourExtra (Instagram, Twitter, Facebook) using the hashtag #BriefButSpectacularEDU.
Student Video of the Day (October 22, 2020)
This lesson was written by Fariya Farah, a junior at Amherst College and NewsHour Classroom’s intern, with editing by Victoria Pasquantonio.
Republished with permission from PBS NewsHour Classroom.
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