On April 11th, the eighth grade classes of SHSID held their annual English speech competition in the auditorium. Prior to the competition, each student meticulously prepared their own speech topics. The English teachers conducted several rounds within the classes to determine the finalists. On the day of the competition, the contestants showcased their speeches on stage, in front of an eager audience of peers and teachers. Hosts Mr. Laverriere and Mr. Brigham enlivened the event with vivid language and valuable commentary.

As the competition commenced, the eight selected students took to the stage, each having laboriously prepared to global issue to address. From land desertification to social media, from plastic pollution to health concerns, each speaker chose a topic they were passionate about, preparing earnestly in hopes of leaving a lasting impression on the audience. The atmosphere was filled with youthful energy and passion, as each student exuded confidence and charisma, becoming soulful poets who ignited the hearts of their listeners. The audience was inspired by each speakers' enthusiasm and sincerity, their eyes shining with heartfelt longing for the future and eagerness for change.

The contest proceeded in two rounds, starting with students at the S and S+ levels of English proficiency, followed by those at the H and H+ levels. Each participant delivered an outstanding performance. They stood confidently on stage, articulating their viewpoints and ideas fluently in English, providing a myriad of vivid examples to solidify and convey their viewpoints. They showcased their love for the language and public speaking, as well as their thoughtful concern and contemplation on social issues.

The first to take the stage were students from the S/S+ levels. 8(4) Clemence discussed the French strike event, emphasizing the government's need to choose the majority over the minority. 8(3) Isabella addressed animal abuse, stressing the importance of not abusing power and taking action to protect animals. 8(7) Emma spoke about gender discrimination, urging people to strive to eliminate gender stereotypes and promote equal opportunities and rights for men and women. Chloe from Class 8(1) led the audience to contemplate the hot topic of AI's impact and offered solutions on the issue.

Afterward, students from the H/H+ levels began their passionate speeches. 8(2) Annie talked about the mass sterilization and violation of women’s rights in India, shocking the audience with eye-opening facts and statistics. 8(11) Maggie introduced the Afghan refugee crisis, highlighting its severity. 8(3) Eileen discussed educational inequality, elaborating on its significance, causes, and solutions. Annie from Class 8(1), also addressed gender inequality issues prevalent in society, prompting the audience to contemplate deeply.

After intense competition, the judges announced the winners. Mr. Liu Lian, Principal of SHSID Middle and Primary School, and Mr. Shen Tianyuan, Vice Principal of SHSID Middle and Primary School presented the prizes to the H/H+ round winners. Mr. Key, Assistant Principal of English Curriculum and Ms. Wu, Grade 8 Supervisor presented the prizes to the S/S+ round winners.Each awardee gained more confidence and courage, as their efforts were recognized. This competition is not only a showcase of speeches but also an exercise in students' independent critical thinking abilities and an inspiration for their global citizenship awareness. In the process of expressing their views, they looked introspectively to refine their thoughts on social issues, rediscovered fervor for language and communicative skills, and challenged themselves to speak confidently in front of an audience.

Amidst the sincere congratulations of the hosts, the event concluded successfully.

Both the participating students and the audience harvested abundantly, carrying with them a passion for public speaking and a thirst for knowledge, envisioning a brighter future ahead.

Awards List:

S/S+WINNERS

First Prize

8-1 Chloe

Second Prize

8-7 Emma

Third Prize

8-3 Isabella

Honorable Mention  

8-4 Clemence

H/H+WINNERS

 First Prize

8-1 Annie

Second Prize

8-3 Eileen

 Third Prize

8-11 Maggie

Honorable Mention  

8-2 Annie S

Written by  8-6 Amy

Supervised by Zhang Xinyi,Mr. Laverriere，Mr. Brigham

Pictures by G8 Photography Service Learning Group

Edited by Cong Luo, Bianca Noguera