OUTLIERS

Is without question the single greatest non-fiction book I have ever read. It seems that Malcolm Gladwell simply gets it. It has also sparked introspective discussions and debates between my Father and I about the ideas, insights, and topics discussed in the book which take place just about every time we read another chapter in this book. Gladwell always uses logic and never seems to over-think the situations he talks about, but simply examines and provides insight on the information he presents to the reader, and that information only. The type of unbiased truth that Gladwell presents in this book is a marvel and something that everybody should recognize. I am not necessarily saying that everything Malcolm Gladwell says is the end all be all, but his points in Outliers are bold and largely indisputable.

CAREER

I think I've finally decided what I want to do with my life...

DEBATES: ROUND 1

Well, our first round of debates have concluded in class and now it is time to reflect...

Overall I think that our debate went very well. Both sides seemed interested and displayed a sense of purpose in the debate that made you feel like we wanted to convince the audience of our argument. I feel that performed to the best of my ability during the debate, however it was not perfect, not in my eyes or the eyes of the audience. I think that I performed strongest in my choice of the cross examination questions and refute. However, my rebutting and research information and inclusion of cold hard facts in my argument need some improving. If I could change anything, I would speak slower and provide more examples in my arguments. During the next round, I will mainly focus on my presence at the podium and including evidence in my argument that drives my opponent's into the ground. I am content with the rubric as it stands right now.

Suggestions for future debates:
1. Resolved: Public High school students in the United States ought not be required to pass standardized exit exams to graduate.
2. Resolved: That the United States government has a moral obligation to afford the same constitutional rights to all people on United States soil.