Debating from a young age

What is debating?

A lot of  children have a talent when it comes to arguing in a black and white manner, leading many to think they would be skilled in debating. But debating involves a lot more than arguing, and is a skill that must be learnt and honed like any other. It utilises and improves critical learning, critical thinking and critical speaking - all important skills that will benefit your child in their adult life.

Recent research from the University of Bedfordshire and the English-Speaking Union has even revealed that learning to debate can improve children’s SATs results by six to 19 per cent in all subjects.

Important components to a good debate include;

Evidence and logic: This means being able to research a topic thoroughly and creating a strong, factual argument.

Delivery: The best argument will often fall short if it isn’t delivered well. It’s important that you are able to engage your audience.

Listening and responding: Hearing your opponent's argument and responding with a well reasoned counter argument.

Skills developed from debate

• Develop speaking skills and ability to verbally express themselves in front of an audience

• Builds critical listening skills

• Improves writing as it teaches how to structure and organise their work

• Help to develop research skills

• It encourages children to explore larger ethical questions

Due to this, debate is an excellent extra curricular activity for children to partake in, and will help them develop important skills. Do you think your child would benefit from debate? Then why not encourage them to join.