Proposition: Tyler T and Soichiro H
Opposition Arthur M and Boris H
Judges: Zubin D'S and Alvin F
It is week 5 of debating! The first person to speak was Tyler, who began with the strong statement of fact that innocent people can die if there is an error in judgement. He continued to argue that the death penalty is very cruel, and people are not able to redeem themselves in this system of retribution. Finally, he then added that prisoners can still interact and contribute. Therefore, there are missed opportunities in death. 

Arthur then rebutted Tyler’s point by stating that the legal system is very accurate and that many of these people are mentally ill. He added that people feel safer if the criminals are eliminated and, furthermore, Arthur used some impressive statistics to back up his points and the reality that prisons are easy to escape.  

Soichiro then began by rebutting Arthur, arguing that prisoners could escape from custody. He stated that studies show that crime rates are going down, which shows that prisons are working in many parts of the world. He also argued that prisoners should be pardoned and get a second chance.  

Lastly, Boris rebutted Soichiro by stating that prison is not harsh enough for some crimes, using Noah’s Ark as an example of biblical punishment. He argued that capital punishment enforces discipline, and other crimes are less likely to follow. Finally, he referred to the financial burden of prisoners on society. 

Questions from the audience included queries about the nature of punishment. For example, could two wrongs make a right and are pardoned prisoners likely to offend again? They were answered well by all the speakers, with thoughtful and clear answers all round.  

In their final summaries, Tyler and Arthur both summarised their arguments and outlined their key points with convincing delivery. 

The judges praised the speakers, noting that they enjoyed their points, which were well-made, and referred to the excellent quality of presentation with increasing eye contact, which was a target. The scores were close, but the motion did not carry. 

Next week - Motion: Space travel should be abandoned to pay for all the problems the world is facing.
Proposition: Nathan C and Matthew Z
Opposition: Zachary S and Alfie L
Judges: Connor W and Javier R
 

Mrs Joy Bailey 
Head of History