Making a point
On Wednesday, 7 June, members of the Senior Debating Team took part in their first-ever debate in an external competition, the Australian National Virtual Debating Competition (ANVDC). As part of the competition, the team took on three matches against different schools, all conducted via Zoom. The teams had one hour to prepare for the debate, with only 15 minutes to conduct internet research. Each speaker then had seven minutes of speaking time. Following the ‘round-robin’ stage, the winning schools progress to the knockout stage next term.
Our students performed admirably, debating for the Affirmative side on the topic: Australia should increase the number of military bases it has around the world. In the adjudicator’s words, “a tricky topic indeed!” While the debate was ultimately won by The Scots School Albury (“only just”!), the teamwork and passion shown by the students were extraordinary to witness. This kind of experience is invaluable, and we look forward to seeing our team go from strength to strength.
The McDonald College Senior Debating Team consists of Year 11 students:
- Speaker 1 – Samuel Dunnicliff
- Speaker 2 – Emma King
- Speaker 3 – Daniel Harris Silent
- 4th member – Caitlin Dooley
