One of the great ways to demonstrate knowledge of facts and understanding of concepts in History is through debate. Debating not only tests students’ ability to recall important details and explain how they fit into the “big picture”, but it adds the extra element of time pressure. Students must work and think quickly.
This week grade 9 wrapped up their unit on the American Civil War. The focus of the unit was the causes of that devastating war and its effects. Through an examination of these events, students explored concepts about sectionalism and government.
During the debate, students were paired up. The pairings changed for each debate question, giving all students a chance to work with each of their classmates. Tackling questions such, “Did the South deserve to be severely punished after the war?”, grade 9 did an outstanding job. It was one of those heart-warming moments as a teacher when I could sit back and watch my students show off their learning in a really concrete way. They were highly engaged, detailed, and eloquent. Well done!
