Introduction to Competitive Debate

Do you like arguing? Do you want to improve your persuasion skills? Are you looking to gain confidence speaking in front of groups of people? Join us for Introduction to Competitive Debate. This beginner course will give you the basics of debate, including debate format and etiquette, how to construct a strong argument, and helpful tips and tricks for public speaking! Come learn how to put those arguing skills to good use!

Each class will be broken up into three segments. The first will be the instructional phase, during which the instructor will introduce the week’s topic, and explain the key concepts. The second phase will be comprised of group activities designed to allow students to try putting the new concepts into practice. Finally, the students will be divided into teams and will have the final last segment of class to work on preparing their arguments for the Mini Debate Tournament in Week 6.

Week 1: Introduction: What is debate and why do it?

Week 2: Competitive Debate format, etiquette, and conventions (BIRT, defining terms, affirmative/negative, etc.)

Week 3: Argument formulation and speech writing

Week 4: Cross Examination techniques and strategies

Week 5: Impromptu Debate

Week 6: Mini Debate tournament