Grapevine High School sophomore Sophia Thompson is headed to the UIL 5A Congress State Contest after finishing in fourth place out of approximately 50 students in the regional debate competition. Only the top five at regionals advanced to state, which will begin with the preliminary sessions on Tuesday, January 7, at the University of Texas at Austin. The finals will be held Wednesday, January 8, at the Texas Capitol.
“I am so excited!” Thompson stated. “My family has all gone there [to UT Austin] so I am excited for a full circle moment if I go there in the future.”
In preparation for the state competition, Thompson is researching information and preparing speeches on the 11 to 12 pieces of legislation that competitors will debate in favor of and against.
She is also preparing to answer live questions from opponents during the event.
“It’s not just about writing the speeches beforehand; there’s actual application of the knowledge that must be used when other competitors are asking questions live during the round,” GHS professional communications and speech and debate teacher Demarcus Powell added. “Being able to speak on the floor is how you earn points so you have to be prepared to speak on both sides of every bill.”
The UIL competition models the legislative process of the United States Congress, including following parliamentary procedure, and is one of several debate events held throughout the school year. Powell shared that students learn valuable skills in the process.
“It’s about research, critical thinking and teamwork,” he said. “The research students conduct often mirrors the work done at a college or professional level. Debate also sharpens their ability to develop original arguments and collaborate with teammates and coaches.”
Thompson says that in debate class at GHS, “I have learned to think more on my feet. I am not so scripted when I write speeches. Instead, I have points and I am able to elaborate. Thinking on my feet also helps me receive and ask questions better.”
Ultimately, Powell states that the skills the students learn make them more adept to different situations while also learning time management.
Thompson agreed.
“For me, I see it as a life skill,” she emphasized. “I’m able to communicate better with people and I’m really excited to take these skills with me into the future, but for now I’m enjoying the experience.”
Good luck to Thompson as she heads to state in January!