Computer Assisted Language Learning

  Summary          In these articles, the author talks about her experience of joining the debate team at her new school. She says it was a challenging but also a very rewarding experience. The author initially struggled to adjust to the social dynamics of the school and was unaware of the unspoken rules. However, the author was set on joining the debate team and eventually passed the audition. Debating gave the author a chance to compete and explore her intellectual interests. Debating taught the author the value of effective argumentation, including the importance of a clear structure, evidence, and logical reasoning. The author had to figure out how to balance the expectations of others with their own personal goals. Through perseverance and practice, the author developed strong debating skills and achieved notable success. The author learned that effective argumentation requires more than just a clear structure and evidence. It also requires the ability...

After listening to the speeches of level 1-2 today,I feel that they are very brave. When I was in level 2 , I didn’t dare to speak even to introduce myself. Although their English was not very smooth, at least they were very attentive to their PPT and serious about their country. Then came level 3-4 where I was surprised by two students, one of them was from Columbia and the other one I don’t remember. However, when they gave their speeches, they make me feel very much like a teacher in a class. Their English was very good and they spoke with confidence. In fact, I was very happy for them, their speeches were excellent. I’m at level 6, but I still can’t introduce myself or my country as well as they did. I should learn from them to be confident.

Introduction  When I was nine years old, I lost the ability to argue. This change felt like a slow erosion. At first, I tired to resist , but eventually, I got tired of the effort and risk involved in arguing. In July 2003 , my family moved from Korea to Australia. At first, I was excited , but soon I felt lonely and our of place in our new home in Sydney. Summary The author describes their struggle to adapt to a new life in Australia after moving from Korea. They felt isolated and found it hard to communicate and argue in English. Over time, they stopped arguing and chose to stay silent to avoid conflict. However, a school debate changed everything. The author discovered the power of debate and went on to achieve great success in competitive debating. They learned that good arguments can improve personal and public life, and that debating can be a tool for understanding and solving conflicts. -erosion -steady fade -wealthy -alienation -irritating -sympathetic -progressives -eschew...