The art of the debate

The future Clarence Darrows and Sonia Sotomayors in Marni Neenos’ fourth-grade class at New Scotland Elementary School on Friday debated the pros and cons of genetically modified food.

The young lawyers were randomly assigned to take the case “for” or “against” food that has been genetically modified, a subject they researched in recent weeks. The debate also tied into students’ study of Abraham Lincoln, where they learned he was known as “Honest Abe” because he worked diligently to maintain his reputation as an honest politician and lawyer.

After the debate, each student wrote an essay to support their side based on what they had learned. Neenos will tally the responses to determine which side prevailed – stay tuned for the outcome!

Check out some Facebook photos from the debate. (You don't need a Facebook account to see the photos linked in the highlighted text. A window may appear that says, "To see more from Albany City Schools on Facebook, log on or create an account,” but you can dismiss it by clicking “not now.”)