How to Make a Valid Argument: Debate 101

Outside of art, every piece of content we consume - from a math equation to an essay - is an argument. 

In this class, we will learn the three basic tactics of argumentation: Ethos, Pathos, and Logos. We will then practice making arguments on policy issues (e.g. whether students should be given more homework by teachers) using the three tactics and discuss the pros and cons of each tactic.

Students will learn to think critically about the arguments made by others and to examine the strengths of their own arguments.

Specifically, the second half of the class will focus on:

1. The creation of a constructive argument (e.g. "Students should be given less homework by teachers so that they can focus on after-school activities...")
2. The use of a rebuttal (e.g. "TV and video games are responsible for limiting student participation in after school activities, not homework...")
3. The use of weighing in an argument (e.g. "Even if homework does limit after-school activities, the value of homework is greater than playing little league baseball..."). 

My teaching style is heavily focused on student-generated ideas and throughout the course, I will introduce concepts and then guide students as they interact with those concepts. Students will generate over 75% of the total talk-time throughout the course

No prior knowledge or skill is required for this beginner-level debate class.