Proposition 1 Michael Z
Michael confidently delivered a strong start with clear arguments about the benefits of modern smartphone apps and teaching tools in the classroom. The safety of location apps for parents was used to argue that mobile phones have a wide range of benefits.

Opposition 1 Tobi O
Straight to the rebuttal! Tobi highlighted the drawbacks of mobile phones as potential distractions to learning and clearly took the opposing side of this debate. He also raised the safety aspects of the internet convincingly.

Proposition 2 Louis B
Again, a clear and clever rebuttal of the opposing arguments straight off the bat. Louis took a broader view of the arguments and raised the need to protect the environment and avoid photocopying. He cited the experience of young people today and how it can benefit a wide range of pupils by offering them alternative ways to learn.

Opposition 2 Barnaby D
An appeal to the heart this time, Barnaby considered the limitations of some phone apps and how they can stifle learning. In addition, he noted students' screen time and the medical impact of headaches, sleep disorders and scientific evidence to support why phones should not be allowed in class. Barnaby's caring approach changed the pace and raised good questions.

Following the speakers, we had questions from the audience, which were varied and specific. For example, Conrad challenged the evidence of health problems using devices such as smartphones. Others raised the use of IT to save paper, charging issues, and how the lessons would be organised in practice; the speakers hotly defended all points. Unfortunately, the debate had to end with discussions all in mid-flow, allowing the judges, Sammy Q and Sammy P, to explain their marks this week. They referred to the speakers' strengths, from the range of arguments to their delivery, providing feedback which was very helpful and supportive. Both judges have become veterans over the past two terms, which was apparent in their feedback!

Judges and the audience carried this motion; well done to this week's proposition.

Next week, the moral issue of the costs involved in space exploration is up for debate, and as I type, the debate has already inspired a wealth of discussion.

Mrs Joy Bailey
Head of History and Year 8