Debate

Debate Classes

Intro to Debate (G4-6) Online Saturday 1:00 -2:00pm EST (Jan 28, Feb 4, 11, 25, Mar 4, 11, 18, Apr 1, 15, 22, 29, May 6, 13, 20, 27)

• This class is designed for students who are in their first year of debate experience. Topics will include argumentation and opening statement structure, cross-examination strategies, and closing statement preparation.

Public Forum (G6-9) Online Saturday 9:00-11:00am EST (Feb 18, 25, Mar 4, 11, 18, Apr 1, 15, 22, 29, May 6, 13, 20, 27, Jun 3, 10)

• Public Forum Debate was designed to enable debaters to discuss current events in an accessible, conversational format. Public Forum rounds feature polished delivery, exciting clash, and fast-paced refutations. It is one of the most popular debate formats students around the world compete in. You partner with one other student to prepare to debate both sides of the topic. You learn how to research, think strategically, write persuasive speeches, and hone your listening skills. You can’t help but improve on your public speaking skills, and you will start to really believe in your abilities as an effective communicator. The class will use the topics, or what we call resolutions, decided by the National Speech and Debate Association.

Parliamentary Debate (G6-9) Online Friday 7:30-9:30 pm EST (Jan 27, Feb 3, 17, Mar 3, 10, 17, 31, Apr 14, 21, 28, May 5, 12, 19, 26, Jun 2)

• Parliamentary debate is a formal contest featuring critical analysis and rhetorical skills. Participants represent the advocates for and against a motion for debate (also known as a resolution or topic). Parliamentary debate is extemporaneous debating on topics that change from debate to debate. This is a great class for brushing up on current events and improving speaking skills simultaneously.  The sessions always end with group discussions. Students are able to share new insights and valuable information. Students can research a topic effectively and are able to process ideas quickly to formulate positions.  They are trained to be quick thinkers and persuasive speakers. The students gain so much knowledge from week to week. The collaboration is fun, inviting, accepting, and the feedback is very helpful and insightful. Everyone leaves with a feeling of accomplishment with their newfound knowledge to share.

Lincoln-Douglas (G6-9) Online Sunday 9-11am (Feb 19, 26, Mar 5, 12, 19, Apr 2, 16, 23, 30, May 7, 14, 21, 28, Jun 4, 11)

• Lincoln-Douglas Debate typically appeals to individuals who like to debate, but prefer a one-on-one format as opposed to a team or group setting. Additionally, individuals who enjoy LD like exploring questions of how society ought to be. Many people refer to L.D. Debate as a “values” debate, as questions of morality and justice, are commonly examined. Students prepare cases and then engage in an exchange of cross-examinations and rebuttals in an attempt to convince a judge that s/he is the better debater in the round.

*Tuition does not include debate tournament costs.

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