STANDARDIZED TESTING

Debate Club Meeting Recap

On January 13th, 2025, the Debate Club held another cordial & informative debate. Two groups, 9 and 10, debated on the prompt, "Should Standardized testing be abolished?" 

This past Monday, the UHS Debate Club hosted its final debate in the first round of our inaugural tournament. Two groups, 9 and 10, cordially discussed whether Standardized Testing (such as the ACT and SAT) should be abolished, questioning the accuracy of these tests. Both teams understood what needed to be done. It being the last round, there was only one more spot in the second round. Ultimately, group 9 (NEGATIVE) was voted the winner by our members watching.

One of group 9's members, Vivian Do, also walked away with the Member of the Meeting award for her performance in the debate. Although she did not speak frequently, when she did, her professionalism stood out, and she never failed to make excellent points. Congratulations, Vivian!

To receive input from members, President Alan Mowle asked about reflections regarding the first round of the debate and any comments for round two. Sean Nnoli pointed out how round two is where people will "excel."  "I'd expect strong debaters on both sides of each topic; I wouldn't underestimate any of my opponents." 

Issac Berger replied, "I really liked the research people put into the debate beforehand. Although the research was quite good, there were times where I feel the research hindered them in ways where they got mixed up in their words." When asked about rebuttals, he said, "A lot seemed more towards the other team than trying to convince the audience, seeming informal at times." He ended his response by saying, "Although rebuttals could be improved, I really liked the energy that people put into them, and I can't wait to see what the next round brings."

The second round of debates will begin Monday, January 27th. Thank you all for being a part of the beginning of this historic tournament. Stay tuned for future blogs regarding the Law & Debate scene here at UHS.