Read This--It's Worth the Time and Effort
Finding Their Voices Encouraging struggling students to argue may seem a debatable strategy. But there's no arguing with success.
By Karen Houppert Sunday, August 26, 2007; W12
IT IS 5 O'CLOCK ON A FRIDAY NIGHT IN APRIL, AND IGNACIO EVANS AND JERMOL JUPITER ARE MAKING PLANS.
Heads bent close together, Jermol's braids knock up against Iggy's Mohawk as they map out their evening. They whisper. They argue. They reach an agreement.
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I wouldn't be surprised if the interest in debate doesn't have its roots in rap--something I truly dislike--but the power of debate is hard to argue. From Benjamin Franklin to Martin Luther King, Jr., those who can think on their feet and channel words into action, made our future.
This is an inspiring story of a small sliver of school kids participating. One can only hope it spreads, not by curriculum but by popular appeal.
* For more in-depth articles by Jim on Things That Work Great, check out Opinion-Columns.com