This is an introductory course for students with little or no experience in public speaking or debate. The objectives of the class: to familiarize young people with basic principles of public speaking and debate, and to provide them with opportunities to practice effective and ethical communication and argumentation. In speech study, students will be introduced to speeches in three categories: Platform, Interpretation, and Limited Preparation. During the course, students will advance their research, organizational, and speaking skills to prepare and present up to four different speeches from the three categories and will have weekly impromptu practice. Debate study further builds on the skill of speech presentation. In debate, students will be introduced to the Value Debate format and will take part in debating both sides of a topic with the goal to advocate for and oppose a proposition without compromising their own beliefs. The class will hold 2-4 full-scale academic debates and several mini debates. In debate, students will prepare and present prepared speeches (constructive), learn how to conduct cross-examination, and will practice impromptu speeches in rebuttals.
For Speech, the handbooks will be provided by the teacher.
For Debate, students will need the NCFCA Guide to Value Debate Competitor's Handbook.
To purchase from the publisher: https://shop.ncfca.org/product/1008/NCFCA-Guide-to-Value-Debate-Competitor's-Handbook.
Several copies of the textbook will be available for rent.
The Case Study Handbook is provided by the teacher.
Supplies: 1" 3-ring binder and some loose-leaf paper.
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Parents are responsible for purchasing all textbooks and supplies before the first day of class.
Supply fees are due to each teacher on the first day of class. This fee covers materials, lab supplies, and other expenses incurred by the teacher. They are a one-time fee.
Please note the grade level for this class. Students younger than the recommended grade levels need special permission before signing up for the class. Please contact the office for more information.
What happens if a class is full? You may email administration@keysofva.org to be waitlisted.
