The Debate
The day of the debate arrived, and the atmosphere at school was electric with anticipation. Students buzzed with excitement, preparing their speeches and strategies. Obinna and Funke met early to go over their final points, the weight of their project and the significance of their partnership heavy in the air.
“Are you ready?” Funke asked, her voice a mixture of nerves and excitement as they sat in an empty classroom, reviewing their notes.
“As ready as we’ll ever be,” Obinna replied, glancing at the time. “We’ve practiced so much; now it’s just about delivering.”
Funke took a deep breath, her eyes sparkling. “Remember, we’re not just debating our topic; we’re showing everyone that we can work together. It’s more than just grades.”
Obinna nodded, feeling a surge of determination. “Exactly. This is our chance to make a statement.”
As they made their way to the auditorium, the hallways were filled with students rallying for their respective teams. Friends and classmates wished them luck, and a sense of camaraderie enveloped them. Obinna spotted his friends from the earlier gathering and felt a wave of support wash over him.
Inside the auditorium, the stage was set, and the atmosphere was charged with energy. The opposing team, a group of confident seniors, stood on the other side, ready to defend their stance against the impact of social media on mental health.
Obinna and Funke took their places at the front, the audience’s murmurs fading as the moderator called for attention. Obinna glanced at Funke, who smiled encouragingly, and he felt his nerves settle slightly.
The debate began with opening statements, and Funke spoke passionately about the positive aspects of social media. “While there are certainly negative impacts, we cannot ignore the ways it connects people, fosters communities, and offers support. For many, it’s a lifeline,” she said, her voice strong and clear.
Obinna followed, expanding on her points. “Social media provides access to resources that can aid mental health, allowing individuals to share their experiences and find solidarity in their struggles. It’s a tool, and like any tool, it can be used positively or negatively.”
As they exchanged points and rebuttals, Obinna felt a thrill of excitement. They were working seamlessly, their ideas complementing one another, showcasing their teamwork. The audience was engaged, leaning in as they debated the nuances of their topic.
But as the opposing team presented their arguments, Obinna sensed a shift. The seniors were confident, their rebuttals sharp and rehearsed. They painted a compelling picture of the dangers of social media, and Obinna felt the pressure mount.
“They’re good,” Funke whispered during a brief moment of pause, her brow furrowed with concern.
“Yeah, but we can counter this,” Obinna replied, his mind racing. “We just need to stick to our main points.”
When it was their turn to respond, Obinna took a deep breath, his heart pounding. “While the risks of social media are real, we must also acknowledge the personal stories behind those statistics. Each individual is impacted differently. The key is to focus on education and responsible use, rather than demonizing the platforms themselves.”
Funke added, “It’s about creating a balance. We can educate users on how to engage healthily with social media, rather than shunning it completely. There’s a middle ground that can be beneficial for everyone.”
As they continued their back-and-forth, Obinna felt his confidence growing. The rhythm of their teamwork was palpable, and the audience was clearly invested. The back-and-forth banter invigorated him, and he could see their classmates nodding along, engaged in the discussion.
