Should Canada be welcoming Syrian refugees? This was the heated topic of debate in Annie Rochon’s Quebec and Canadian Studies class.
Earlier in the semester, the class was divided into two groups: affirmative and negative. Each group was given class time to gather facts on the topic and prepare their argument. The debate itself took place on Thursday, February 11. Judging the event was instructor Annie Rochon and guest Dick Hannis.
The affirmative team kicked off the debate. They explained how Syrians are entering Canada for safety, and that each one went through a long screening procedure. The team used statistics to show how refugees benefit the economy. The negative team then used their research to deliver facts on why Canada should not be taking in refugees. They pointed out the flaws in the screening and interrogation process, as well as the negative effect the refugees have on the economy.
In the end, the negative team was voted the winners, because they were well-organized and presented sound facts.
The project itself was educational. The students learned about the Syrian refugee crisis, while also learning about Canada, how to research, and how to create a sound argument.
Elise Temkkit is an Apollos editor! See her bio here.