The two teams for the debate were guided and directed by a student leader and carried out research on the topic as well as creating "rich" questions for the other team. The debate lasted 2 geography periods and showed that our Orchard Park students are not only "in tune" with global social issues - they are, in some cases, passionate and critical of their role in these matters.
As part of the population characteristics and demographics unit in Grade 8 Human Geography, students also demonstrated curriculum skills in Media, Drama, Persuasive Writing. Learning skills focused on included; cooperation, independent and group work, initiative, conflict resolution, goal setting and leadership.
After awarding each team their group mark and crowning "the winner," students completed a "self-reflection" activity where they identified strengths, next steps and set goals for future debate activities. Congratulations to all the grade 8 students who showed their interest and skills in researching and debating such a globally-significant issue. 
