2024 PUBLIC SPEAKING AND DEBATE CAMP

For over a decade Capitol Debate has strived to enrich the lives of students through communication programs. During the first week of camp, students' classes will be located at the Harvard Faculty Club, 20 Quincy St, Cambridge, MA 02138*. Students will study at Bentley University for the 2nd week. Our overnight student accommodations will be provided at Bentley University. We gather expert staff, with a diverse group of students, and select excellent facilities and locations to create fun, safe, and supportive environments.

*Disclaimer: Capitol Debate or any responsible parties is not affiliated with Harvard University, nor is Capitol Debate a Harvard University program or activity.

Ages: 13-17. Campers must be 13 by the start of camp.

Capitol Debate's Public Speaking and Debate Camps provide a transformative experience for students looking to enhance their communication and debating skills. They become more confident, self-assured, and develop critical thinking, logical reasoning, and refutation skills, allowing them to succeed in any setting. Tailored to each child's level, the camp provides a safe and challenging environment for growth, helping students find their voice and become more persuasive, empowered to make positive change.

Experience Capitol Debate Camp at Capitol Debate at Bentley University in Waltham, Massachusetts

Watch our students grow, learn, and succeed year after year

Program Highlights from 2018
Success Framework

Extensive Checklist for Success

At Capitol Debate, we ensure that every aspect of public speaking and debate is thoroughly addressed. Our comprehensive checklist is meticulously designed to track and guide each student's progress.

Teacher explaining debate techniques
Voice!

Vocal Quality Mastery

  • Perfect your vocal delivery

Key Voice Elements:

  • Voice projection & clarity
  • Effective vocal variety
  • Strategic use of pauses
  • Emphasis techniques
Non-Verbal!

Body Language Excellence

  • Master non-verbal communication

Non-Verbal Skills:

  • Purposeful gestures
  • Commanding stage presence
  • Strategic eye contact
  • Expressive facial control
Structure!

Speech Architecture

  • Build compelling speeches

Speech Structure:

  • Powerful openings
  • Clear main points
  • Logical transitions
  • Memorable conclusions
Cross-Ex!

Strategic Cross-Examination

  • Master the art of questioning

Cross-Ex Skills:

  • Strategic questioning
  • Answer preparation
  • Time management
  • Composure control
Refute!

Refutation Techniques

  • Counter arguments effectively

Refutation Skills:

  • Clear signposting
  • Strategic ordering
  • Impact assessment
  • Argument comparison
Closing!

Persuasive Closings

  • End debates powerfully

Closing Techniques:

  • Powerful summation
  • Victory articulation
  • Emotional connection
  • Call to action

Capitol Debate Summer Programs Reviews Are In! 🔥

See what Parents and Students are Saying

LX

Libo Xu

CAPITOL DEBATE Parent
Verified Review
Excellent Program ⭐
This is a wonderful program that introduces the fundamentals of debate and an excellent camp for younger students to get the away from home experience. Program is well run and the staff is super caring.
#CapitolDebate #SummerSuccess
HM

Heather McCarthy

CAPITOL DEBATE Parent
Verified Review
Perfect Balance ⭐
This camp provides a good balance of fun and academics. My son learned a lot, made new friends, and would recommend this camp to others. The residential facilities are very nice and the staff is very caring.
#CapitolDebate #SummerSuccess
CB

Colleen Bates

CAPITOL DEBATE Parent
Verified Review
Well-Rounded Experience ⭐
We have two boys who attended camp several years and have had such great experiences each time. The various extracurricular activities (sports, movie, field trips) kept them busy too. They have lots of freedom in a safe environment.
#StudentGrowth #CampActivities
KR

Katie Rector

CAPITOL DEBATE Student
Verified Review
Life-Changing Summer ⭐
Capitol Debate made my summer way better than it's been. I loved learning debate with enthusiastic teachers and great friends. I will be back every year and maybe try different locations.
#DebateSkills #SummerHighlight