Wednesday, November 28th, 2018. Day 4.

Wednesday, November 28^th, 2018. Day 4.

Here is what we did today in language class:

Rules for a Debate

A debate is not the following:

a)    anything that resembles a Jerry Springer Show

You should avoid the following:

b)    shouting

c)     interruptions

d)    chanting

e)    talking over someone else

f)      having private conversations among groups or people

You should do the following:

g)    respect people by avoiding laughter

h)    use a respectful tone and maintain eye contact

i)       project your voice

j)       avoid mumbling

k)    be aware of time

l)       look for logical flaws

Here is the structure:

1.    The ‘for’ is given 3 minutes to present their case, which is three points each is followed by and details.

2.    The ‘against’ presents their side, using the same format within 3 minutes.

3.    Then, the ‘for’ side can clarify by asking questions.

4.    The ‘against’ side gets to ask questions for clarification.

5.    The ‘for’ side gets to ‘poke holes’ in the opposing arguments.

The 'against side' gets the same chance.

There are closing remarks for the ‘fors.’

There are closing remarks for the ‘againsts.’

A panel decides the winner.

This takes 18 minutes plus 2 minutes for closing arguments.

Statement: Coding or computer programming should or should not be taught through the Ontario curriculum and reported on all Ontario provincial report cards.

The following statements were generated by student input.  Some other points were later added.

For:

1.    Coding is easy to learn.

2.    Coding teaches the basics of logical or sequential thinking.

3.    Coding can be extended outside of the classroom.

Against:

1.    Coding competes already with a heavy course load.

2.    Coding takes away from legislated time requirements and may decrease time from math or language.

3.    Coding increases screen time or time with electronics which has adverse effects.

Rebuttal to the Against Side:

1.    Some research suggests that coding can improve learning skills such as the ability to focus and would therefore not take away but enrich the programme.

2.    The volume of work will not increase since the new coding subject will take the place of additional or former math and language homework.

3.    Coding increases screen time, but jobs and careers of the future will largely require people with these technical skills.

Rebuttal to the For:

1.    Contrary to popular opinion, coding is not necessarily easy to learn.  If it was easy, perhaps more people would be doing it outside.

2.    Coding outside of the classroom is perhaps wishful thinking.  People have opportunities already to code, but they use their computers for homework, social media or video games.

3.    Cross training may not necessarily transfer.  If you swim more, you do not become a better runner.   If you code more, it does not guarantee that it will transfer logical skills.

*For: Even old programming languages such as Pascal are still used by the military.  Learning old codes or new codes constitutes learning or life skills.

*Against: technology and coding becomes obsolete, especially with A.I. and new ‘game changing’ innovations, so coding is a waste of time and money.

Closing Remarks and additional comments of the ‘For’  and 'Against' side:

For/Against:

In conclusion,_________________________________________.

Wednesday, November 28^th, 2018. Day 4.

Language: provide a chart or in a written format, three ‘for’ statements, examples, and details and three ‘against’ statements, examples, and details for the below statement drawn from student suggestions.

The City of Toronto should widen its sidewalks.

Math: there is a test tomorrow on fractions, ratios, percentages, and decimals; work on your knowledge hook; complete page 174 #1-11 and wrap up questions #1 & #2

*The boys in Grade 7 have a health test on Wednesday, December the 5^th.*

Science: students must present their science projects on Friday, November the 30^th.

*Those boys who are interested in playing basketball are required to return their forms A.S.A.P.*

*Please bring in non perishable goods, such as soup cans, for the Norseman Food Drive to help the Daily Food Bank.