Sixth graders learn the art of debate through writing

Students in Michelle Mullins’ sixth-grade Language Arts class at Allapattah Flats K8 are learning how to utilize the writing process to write creatively, informatively and persuasively. As part of learning to write persuasively, students participated in a debate project in which they were grouped and asked to analyze a specific scenario and record the “pros” and “cons” of each. Some examples included consideration of a four-day school week or the positive and negative aspects of a school-enforced dress code. Students then split into sub groups and prepared a formal debate in which they had to argue in favor for, or against, a specific scenario. The debaters’ classmates then voted on whose argument was most convincing. The winning team was awarded with Gator Bucks. Pictured, from left to right, Deven Jones and Shan Askari counter-argue a point presented by Vincent Ancewicz and Justin Nolasco. Onlookers, Desiree Nolasco and Amber Kolbinskie, listen to the debate and consider which team deserves each of their votes.