When it comes to the study of history, debating is one of the best ways for students to show that they not only understand different perspectives, but they are able to analyze and critique those perspectives. Grade 10 has shown themselves particularly adept at this, and this morning was no exception.
We’ve been examining the aftermath of the First World War and the question confronting the students in today’s debate cut to the heart of the matter: Was the Treaty of Versailles a fair settlement?
Was it right to make one country (Germany) pay so heavily for that terrible war? Did Germany alone cause the war? Can you really make peace when all you want is revenge?
Grade 10—divided between those supporting the treaty and those opposing it—did a fantastic job juggling the complexities of the era. Following a popular debate format, students had their turn making statements and then having those statements questioned by the opposition. I was very happy to see that each student had thought through their position and were ready for the cross examination.
It’s this type of critical thinking about history that makes students able to think about the present and the future issues facing our world. Well done, Grade 10! And thanks to grades 8 & 9 for being such a great audience.
Renzo makes his rebuttal for the negative side
The affirmative side makes an opening statement