Debate

Last year I taught college writing. For my level two classes, I focused on politics. Too many college students I realized didn’t take an interest in government, in the decisions being made that would eventually affect them. Some knew who their government officials were, some didn’t. Many voted, if it was convenient. Others didn’t because they didn’t think it mattered. In an effort to improve their knowledge and interest in the world, or at least their nation, I created my curriculum around current events. For one of the their papers each semester, I required they watch one of the democratic debates and draw a topic from one of the hotbed issues facing the country. 

This year, as you know I am not teaching college. I quit my job so that I could stay home and homeschool my son. Therefore, keeping him home where it is safe but also ensuring that he has in person instruction which is far more effective. A couple of weeks ago, he told me, “I think you have to let me stay up to watch the presidential debate.” He’s ten. Debates are supposed to be boring, not something kids beg to stay up to watch. But when I pressed him as to why I should allow this, he responded, “Well, you made your classes watch it for homework last year. It’s only fair that you make me watch it this year.” Fair enough. He had a most excellent point. Since I made the schedule, we could easily stay up past his bedtime and then have a delayed opening the next morning. However, I added, “Watching the debate always comes with a writing assignment.” He sighed, but he didn’t complain — too much. 

Since he’s only in fifth grade, I couldn’t make the assignment as involved or as intense as I make it for my college students. So instead asking him to pay attention to the issues and the responses, I asked him to pay attention to the rhetoric. The way the candidates presented themselves and their ideas. In short, I wanted him contrast how each of them spoke, not zero in on what they were speaking about. As it turned out, there really wasn’t much else to write about. 

The debate was a disaster. My son recognized it for what it was. Here are his thoughts:

The Vice President and The Toddler

After watching the debate, I want Mr. Biden to win the election. While I was watching the debate, Trump did not act presidential because of his attitude and lack of respect for his opponent. He was rude, he kept interrupting, and he was inconsiderate. He sent shivers down my back. Trump lied and talked over the moderator and Mr. Biden. Trump insulted Mr. Biden when he said that his son was unpatriotic. A president should not attack or insult a family. So overall, Trump acted like a baby without his pacifier. 

When Mr. Biden spoke, he sounded smart and had a calm voice. During a pandemic this was helpful so everyone listening would be relaxed. Mr. Biden also talked directly to us, which made me feel as if he cared about the American citizens and wanted to win. Mr. Biden’s speaking made me respect him more, too. Over, all Mr. Biden acted more presidential.