Extemporaneous Speaking US and International Current Event Debate Class
Come discuss current events and learn persuasive speaking in the process. All voices are welcome. Students choose the discussion topics and prepare for extemporaneous debate competitions or just join us for fun.
Jennifer Hughes, B.A., J.D., LL.M, LC
Average rating:
4.8
Number of reviews:(654)
Popular
What's included
1 live meeting
55 mins in-class hours per weekHomework
1 hour per week. Students will prepare current events and debates for discussions.Assessment
by parent requestGrading
Student can receive a transcript upon request, this class runs year-round and can be used in many states as an elective.Class Experience
US Grade 8 - 11
Civil discourse is an art that not many apply in their everyday life. My hope is this class will teach students to respectfully listen to others' opinions, while understanding that everyone's opinion is shaped by their own experiences and knowledge. This is an ongoing class, join anytime. You choose your article to share! Learn the art of finding credible research and practice for domestic extemporaneous and international speaking competitions with a Speech and Debate Coach, attorney and longtime government teacher. This is a student-centered class where students bring their articles and lead the discussions. This is also a great class to take if you are currently enrolled in a government or AP Government Course. As a group, we will formulate questions based on the chosen articles and take positions. Students are welcome to research any topic discussed during class and bring it to next week's class for further discussion. Classes are ongoing and students are welcome to come and go as they please.
Learning Goals
Civil Discourse
Understanding Propaganda
Misinformation/Disinformation
Current events around the globe
Speaking Skills
Persuasion
Other Details
Learning Needs
This is an inclusive class, all are welcome.
Parental Guidance
I believe in free speech. Sometimes a student will bring in an article and discuss personal topics. I will not tell a student they cannot discuss a topic, I just ask that they use facts as their basis. If another student does not like a topic presented I encourage them to discuss with family or to contact me directly. That being said, topics will be age appropriate and not harmful.
Supply List
Students should choose an article online that is as non biased as possible. I will provide a sheet showing news bias, it is the students choice how they wish to proceed. I will also provide a format sheet for our discussion.
Joined March, 2020
4.8
654reviews
Popular
Teacher expertise and credentials
Doctoral Degree from State University of Buffalo School of Law
I am a Professor and High School teacher. I am also a retired practicing attorney in New York State. I have taught Advanced Placement US Government, Advanced Placement Comparative Government and traditional High School Government and history classes for over twenty years. I coach for Potomac Debate and NSDA. Many of my students have won State Championships in individual Speech and Debate events including Lincoln-Douglas Debate, Domestic and International Extemporaneous Speaking, Dramatic Interpretation and more. I recognize that politics are deeply personal and encourage nonbiased discussions that encourage students to speak with their own family members. Reviews
Live Group Class
$15
weekly1x per week
55 min
Completed by 89 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 13-18
3-12 learners per class
