Debate sessions in English

This year our school introduced a new optional: debate sessions for preparing for Cambridge.
When I heard about it, I was very interested in it, because I needed to improve my speaking skills and I
really want to pass the Cambridge exam. So, I decided to try it.

Let me explain what debate means. There are two groups which have to discuss about a given
topic. One of the groups will speak for the topic and the other against it. In each group have to be 3
speakers. The first speaker talks about the topic and bring arguments for or against the topic for 5
minutes. The second speaker brings concrete examples for the arguments told by the first speaker and
also counter example for the arguments told by the other group. The third speaker is summarizing
everything told on the debate while is demonstrating, why his or her group where better than the
others.

First time was horrible for me. I forgot words and I couldn’t formulate sentences. I was the
second speaker at that time. But the time passed and with every session I was speaking better and
better. I improved my confidence in my words and in my speaking. Also, I learned to structure my
speech like an essay. I was very glad when finally, our teacher gave me a ten for my speaking,
confidence and structuring ideas! I tried all the speakers and I don’t have preferences about them. Each
speaker has pluses and minuses, and each of them suites to me depending on the topic.

In conclusion, I feel that I improved in speaking, but I know that I need to learn more. I
recommend to everybody who want to pass the Cambridge exam with success, but for those too who
want just to improve their speaking skills and their self-confidence.