Course Description

In Introduction to Debate, students will explore the process of creating strong arguments and learn the speaking skills necessary in presenting their points. With the beginner-tailored Public Forum debate format, students will learn through experience: engaging in games, speaking drills, and practice debates with peers.

Who Is This Course For?

This course is best suited for 3-8th grade students looking to get into public speaking and debate. See course prerequisites for more information.

Course Prerequisites

• Ability to do basic research
• Non-school Google account with ability to access Google Classroom, Slides, Docs

Course Dates

This course runs for 5 weeks weekly and is held the week of August 11 and end on August 18.

Class Times (PST)

• Sunday, August 11, 1-3pm
• Monday, August 12, 1-3pm
• Wednesday, August 14, 1-3pm
• Friday, August 16, 1-3pm
• Sunday, August 18, 1-3pm

Syllabus

Lesson 1: Intro to Debate

Students will learn about the basics of debate and the Public Forum format. This lesson will also cover public speaking tips to help ease students into drills and public debates.

Lesson 2: Resolution Analysis and Case Construction

Resolutional analysis is the first step in creating strong arguments. Students will learn ways to interpret and analyze a given resolution, creating contentions based on their research.

Lessons 3: Refutations and Crossfire

Using debate drills and games, students will learn to spot weaknesses in an argument and properly refute them. In addition, students will receive tips on controlling the crossfire.

Lesson 4: Summary and Final Focus Review

With the round coming to an end, the summary and final focus are crucial in crystallizing and consolidating the contention a team wishes to highlight for the judge. Students will learn to pick which arguments to collapse on, and about time management tips to ensure success.

Lesson 5: Practice Debates

Following a quick review, students will engage in a practice debate tournament where they will debate their peers.