Introduction to Debate Workshop

Middle School Debate Workshops in Maryland

Program Overview

Our middle school debate programs are a powerful tool for children. As they grow and prepare for future academics and future careers, the skills gained at debate camps will help them again and again. Communication, problem solving, critical thinking, and self-esteem are abilities that children should learn early so they later become ingrained. These are the skills we teach. These are the skills that will help kids succeed.

How We Teach

We let kids learn hands-on. We teach theory, but we emphasize application. As students learn the basics of middle school debate, the techniques of speech, and the strategies of winning, they always have the chance to try the theories they have learned.

To master the techniques taught in class, kids need to apply the techniques through exercises and real application. Such exercises are the best way to grasp the concepts of debate. Seeing how the theories work in application helps the students understand why the theories work.

What We Teach

Students at our academic camps learn to:

• Structure Arguments
• Support Arguments with Evidence
• Research Evidence
• Write Persuasively
• Draft Rebuttal Briefs

We Make Debaters Better

Our teachers provide clear instruction, elucidating the essential ideas and techniques of debate. They guide students into writing, researching, and presenting effective cases, based upon logic and evidence. They analyze each child’s arguments and provide feedback—feedback formed from years of real experience. Parents, your child will learn how to become a debater.

Middle School Debate Camp Teaches Kids Preparation, Presentation, and Effective Argumentation

An early introduction to forensics can set children on the path of successful academic and career communication. Whether or not they are competitively debating or presenting, every school they attend and job they hold will require effective communication abilities. Our staff realize this critical stage in a child’s life is the key time for building these skills.