"5-stars for this class !! My child loves this debate class ! He learns to speak freely but in an effective way. Very structured class!"

"My daughter was skeptical at first because she didnt think she would enjoy the class. Once she completed her 1st class she had nothing but rave reviews. She loved the opportunity to share her thoughts and opinions in an open forum. She now has a new found respect and love for debating."

Did you know that public speaking is the number one fear for most people? Yet it's a necessary skill in nearly every profession and a crucial part of life in general. 

In this class, learners will overcome that fear by consistently practicing their public speaking and debate skills in a fun and encouraging environment. 

The class will start by giving the students a topic to practice impromptu speaking. They will then have 5 minutes to curate a speech (no research needed) and deliver it during the class. The more often they do this, the better they will get at being able to think on their feet and turn those thoughts into effective and compelling conversations and speeches. 

The second half of the class will be spent practicing beginner debate skills. Learners will be given the topic a week in advance, and a topic guide so they can do some research and gather facts to support their opinion. 

Examples of debate topics:
🎙 Should be ban plastic bottled water?
🎙 Are zoos ethical?
🎙 Is homework beneficial?


This class is to introduce learners to public speaking and debate and is an open debate style.  Learners will all be given a chance to present their opening argument. Then we will go to the rebuttal round where they are encouraged to counter the opposition's arguments. A debate can't be won just by speaking; it's just as important to listen. We will encourage them to listen to the other side and think of ways to weaken their points.

Learners will also get a bonus video lesson posted in the classroom each week to help them build their debate skills!
 
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Upcoming Topics:

Week starting 11/3/24: The voting age should be lowered to 16.
Week starting 11/10/24: We ought to colonize Mars. 
Week starting 11/17/24: All people should be required to participate in a year of national service.
Week starting 11/24/24: We should replace teachers with computers.
Week starting 12/1/24: Bottled water should be banned.

📣If you think these topics are too advanced, check out our 30 min intro class where we debate simpler topics that don't require any research ie: "are dogs better than cats".  https://outschool.com/classes/intro-to-public-speaking-and-debate-QsAuMteH#usfWkMy7s8

If your child has debate experience, check out the Intermediate version of this class!
Intermediate Level: https://outschool.com/classes/public-speaking-and-debate-intermediate-level-xqNwyqJ6#usfWkMy7s8

Please note this is an ongoing class. Learners can start or stop anytime. We always give a brief overview at the start of class for new learners. This is a subscription-based class, so you will be charged every Sunday to save your seat for the following week. You can stop the subscription at any time. 

All of our teachers have collegiate-level debate and coaching experience. Please see specific class time options for teacher info. 

Transfers can be accommodated with 24 hours notice. 

This class is backed by Outschool's Happiness Guarantee. If you aren't 100% satisfied, contact support@outschool.com for a full refund.