Opening New Worlds…One Topic at a Time
At the NYCUDL, we believe debate should do more than teach students to argue — it should help them understand the world around them.
That’s why, in recent years, we have introduced field trips that bring each debate topic to life. Recently, elementary and middle schoolers in our district programs visited the Queens County Farm to explore the farm-to-table topic. They saw how food is grown and harvested and ask real farmers how policy and environment impact what we eat.
Research shows that these types of experiences have a real impact. According to studies from Harvard Graduate School of Education and Education Week, students who build background knowledge read better, think more critically, and retain more information. The more debaters understand a topic, the easier it is to connect ideas — and the more confident they become in expressing them. Our debaters are not simply memorizing an argument; they’re living it and connecting it to their community.
Thank you for helping us continue to open new worlds for our students. Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful and restorative Thanksgiving.
With gratitude,
Your NYCUDL Family
P.S. This Giving Tuesday, your impact can go twice as far! Every donation will be matched dollar for dollar until we reach our $25,000 goal.