OVERVIEW: Congratulations to students for making the team and to parents for raising children who are driven to be their best. This course will examine the basic principles of forensics. Specifically, students will study the art of argumentation and formal debate. Students will learn to enhance their public speaking skills, research skills, and writing abilities. The inherent rigor of debate encourages higher order thinking and boosts self-confidence. This class and corresponding competitions will help students develop skills that will serve them well in college and career.
EXPECTATIONS: Debate is not a club; it is a team. Therefore, every competitor is expected to practice and participate in tournaments. Preparing for competitions is the focus of the class. Voluntary failure to compete in the scheduled tournaments will likely result in removal from the team.
STUDENTS: Students will work hard in this class preparing their speeches and/or cases. Students will work independently or cooperatively for paired events. Team captains will have added responsibility. Progress checks will usually be done weekly for a grade. Individual weekly goals will depend on the student's event.
PARENTS: Parents are expected to volunteer for fundraising and judging events. We will have an informational parent meeting every August. We will utilize email and Remind for communication regarding events. To sign up for Debate notifications, go to https://www.remind.com/join/f7eb4k