Speaking Projects at Blossom Elementary School

CE1 Debate: Is It Ever Okay to Hunt Animals?

Our CE1 students took part in a formal debate on the question, Is It Ever Okay to Hunt Animals? This was the second debate held at Blossom Elementary School, following the success of last year's debate involving the CE1 and CE2 classes.

As part of the Cambridge English curriculum, students learned how to write persuasive paragraphs before applying these skills in a real-life speaking activity. The project was carefully scaffolded over six weeks. Students began by learning the rules of debating, how to participate respectfully, the difference between facts and opinions, and how to use persuasive language effectively. They then researched the topic, planned their arguments, and drafted their speeches.

The class brainstormed a range of possible debate topics before voting for their favourite. Students were assigned to either the For or Against team, decided their speaking order, and worked collaboratively to prepare and practise their speeches. The project culminated in a formal debate performed in front of an audience of fellow students, giving everyone the opportunity to develop confidence in public speaking while presenting well-researched arguments.

CM1–CM2 Newscast Project

Our CM1 and CM2 students also completed an exciting speaking project by producing their own television-style newscast. Following the success of previous publications such as Blossom News and Blossom Magazine, students took their communication skills one step further by creating and recording a professional news broadcast.

This project focused on informative writing and speaking, again supporting objectives from the Cambridge English curriculum. Students began by watching examples of news reports and discussing the features of factual, informative journalism. They then selected a news topic, carried out research, and wrote their own scripts. After editing and refining their work, students rehearsed their presentations before recording their broadcasts using a green screen and professional recording equipment.

Learning Through Real-World Experiences

Both projects were designed to meet key learning objectives within the Cambridge English framework while giving students authentic opportunities to apply their skills in meaningful contexts. By combining reading, writing, speaking, research, teamwork, and presentation skills, these projects provided engaging, real-world learning experiences that helped students grow in confidence and communication.

We are incredibly proud of the enthusiasm, creativity, and professionalism shown by all of our students throughout these projects. They demonstrated that learning is at its best when classroom skills are brought to life through authentic experiences.