By Carly Beaver and Kayla Forry

In CP 11, students have been working on debates about controversial topics, such as: cell phone use, the death penalty, medical marijuana, video games, gun control and animal testing. Their debates have to last the entire 43 minute class period,  giving opening statements and rebuttals for both positive and negatives to each side. They had two weeks to finish research, and had to come up with six subtopics to discuss in their debate. 

Students were graded on their opening statements, rebuttals, clear enunciation, expression and appropriate professional wear. Students had to have all their information on notecards, ready to present. The audience had to take notes on literary elements and rhetorical devices that they heard while each group was presenting. Nerves were definitely present in their debates, but as they continued on, they became more confident in themselves and their information.