*Can be repeated yearly as assignments/topics will change*

Speech and Debate is a valuable competitive performance class. During the fall semester we will focus on “Speech”. Speech events sharpen writing and public speaking skills. This course explores a wide variety of speeches, including but not limited to Extemporaneous, Demonstration, Opinion, and Persuasive speeches.

The spring semester concentrates on “Debate”. Debate teaches students how to participate in the rational exchange of ideas and arguments as they relate to significant social issues. Students are introduced to basic debate skills, including research methods, argumentation, questioning, and rebuttal experience, primarily through the use of Team Policy and/or Lincoln-Douglas Debates.

This course is designed to help students:

• Gain confidence and experience in public speaking

• Perform a variety of speeches in class that require expositive, persuasive, debate, parliamentary, and interpretive skills

• Locate sources through research and differentiate between reliable and unreliable sources

• Incorporate sources into speeches and conversations in order to support a position

• Differentiate between fact, opinion, and fact-driven opinion

• Develop critical thinking skills and the ability to look at both sides of an issue

• Develop an appreciation for opposing viewpoints

• Develop an awareness of posture, vocal quality, personal appearance, and verbal and nonverbal communication in all speaking situations, including personal interviews

• Exhibit a logical arrangement of ideas in writing and in speech

• Exhibit the ability to draw logical conclusions from critical evaluation of facts and ideas.

Class homework assignments: Moderate- regular weekly work on research and speeches, weekly performance (“giving their speech”) in class

Wednesday

Time: 12:55-2:25
Grades: 9-12
Cost: $400
Supply Fee: $100
Tutor: Debbie Vaughn