Debate - Semester 1

Our online 24-week Debate Mastery course is divided into two semesters and are designed to empower students aged 14 to 18. Students will learn the art of effective argumentation, honing their critical thinking abilities while cultivating eloquent communication skills. This engaging program delves into the intricacies of debate, equipping participants with the tools to navigate intellectual discourse and excel in various academic and real-world scenarios.

Curriculum Highlights:

1. Logical Fallacies: Students will explore common logical fallacies, understanding how flawed reasoning can weaken an argument. They will learn to recognize and avoid these pitfalls through interactive discussions and practical exercises.

2. Rhetoric Techniques: Participants will delve into the art of persuasion through rhetoric. They will master techniques like ethos, pathos, and logos to craft compelling arguments that resonate with diverse audiences.

3. Crafting Resolutions: Students will delve into selecting and phrasing resolutions for debates. They will learn the importance of clear and specific resolutions as the foundation for structured discussions.

4. Analyzing Bias: Understanding bias is crucial in constructing balanced arguments. Students will study various forms of bias and develop strategies to identify and address bias within arguments and evidence.

5. Effective Use of Evidence: Debates thrive on credible evidence. Participants will learn to gather, evaluate, and present evidence from reputable sources to substantiate their claims and strengthen their positions.

6. Building Coherent Arguments: The course will guide students in constructing well-organized arguments that follow a logical progression. They will learn to develop a clear thesis, present supporting points, and anticipate counterarguments.

7. Reasoning and Critical Thinking Skills: Through guided exercises, students will refine their ability to reason logically and critically. They will practice dissecting complex issues, analyzing different perspectives, and formulating thoughtful responses.

8. Structured Debating: Participants will engage in practice debates, applying their newfound knowledge to real-world topics. This hands-on experience will help them refine their argumentation, delivery, and rebuttal skills.

9. Homework Assignments: To reinforce learning, participants will receive thought-provoking homework assignments that encourage independent research, critical analysis, and articulation of their viewpoints.

10. Peer Feedback and Collaboration: Collaborative learning is fostered through peer feedback sessions, where students provide constructive evaluations of each other's arguments, fostering a supportive and growth-oriented environment.

By the end of the 12-week journey, students will emerge as confident and articulate debaters, equipped to analyze complex issues, express themselves convincingly, and engage in respectful intellectual discourse. This course isn't just about winning debates; it's about cultivating lifelong critical thinking skills to serve students well in their academic pursuits and beyond.

Semester 2:

Online Meeting Day: Wednesdays, ((Session 2: January 17, 2024 – April 10, 2024, *w/break week included) ) 
Meeting Time: 10:00 AM (PST) – 11:00 AM (PST)
Price: $200