American School of London - 30th April 2025

We began our session as usual by looking at the news and discussing the main headlines. Initially we talked about the death of the Pope (and how a new one will be chosen), followed by Mark Carney’s election in Canada and also Trump’s reaction to Amazon stating they would display tariff mark up prices in their goods.

Following this, in an exercise to improve public speaking, students individually discussed their favourite hobby and how they would theoretically make it a more unique experience.

As a group, we then discussed whether films should be made in tv franchises (as is happening with the Harry Potter series). Whilst many felt that it was unnecessary and just a money-making scheme, some agreed that it was time for a re-fresh and that cinematography had advanced hugely since the initial films. We also talked about ‘headphone dodgers’ who play music on buses and whether they should be given a £1000 fine. Most felt it was extremely annoying, but that this fine was too big in such a circumstance.

Our focus of the day looked at two points, persuasive language and also conclusions in an argument. We covered two impressive debates on whether homework should exist and whether we should ban plastic, with super contributions and POIs. 

We finished the session by discussing the Fourth Plinth and looked specifically at the artwork ‘The End’, which was placed on it during 2022. There were mixed opinions on it his work, with many agreeing it was interesting, although not one they would want in their own home!

Well done all!