Intro to the Art of Debate (Self-Paced Class, Older Learners)
Join us in learning how to logically debate tough questions in a way that promotes respect and compromise!
Nick Babyak, M. Ed.
Average rating:
4.8
Number of reviews:(1,502)
What's included
4 pre-recorded lessons
4 weeks
of teacher support1 year access
to the contentClass Experience
US Grade 6 - 9
By the end of this Self-Paced class, students will know how to compose and analyze sound, respectful arguments around controversial questions. We'll learn: - the fundamentals of debate structure - supporting logical arguments with research - recognizing logical fallacies and crafting rebuttals - the art of compromise Practice debate questions will supplement the Lessons. They're guided by learner interest, but may include topics like: -Is cloning justified? -How is social media effecting society for better or for worse? -Is the death penalty justified? This is a Self-Paced class with no live meetings. Each of the 4 Lessons includes a pre-recorded Lesson Video (plus an Optional Worksheet for comprehension) with accompanying Debate posts, where students will do activities and engage in a back-and-forth with the teacher. Each Lesson's Debate will correspond to the debate skills taught in the corresponding Lesson. Students are also welcome to message me or arrange Q&A or live "office hours" for additional support. I also offer this as a Live Class, if your student prefers that method of instruction: https://outschool.com/classes/weekly-debate-club-ELOy0z8E#usu529M6QA This class is also perfect for Saysa (Scholastic Asia Young Storytellers Award) participants. See you in class! Class Listing photo by Miguel Henriques on Unsplash
Syllabus
4 Lessons
over 4 WeeksLesson 1:
Basics of Debate
We'll start by learning the fundamentals of debate structure. Plus Debate practice with the instructor and other students. Lesson 2:
Logical Arguments & Research
We'll craft logical arguments and learn about how to do good research, then put both to practice in our Debates. 16 mins of video lessons
Lesson 3:
Rebuttals & Logical Fallacies
We'll familiarize ourselves with common logical fallacies, then practice rebutting flawed arguments from the instructor. 14 mins of video lessons
Lesson 4:
The Art of Compromise
We'll end by discovering how to form compromises between two sides of a debate issue. 12 mins of video lessons
Other Details
Parental Guidance
If you or your student doesn't want to engage with a certain question for any particular reason, just let me know and I can avoid such topics and provide alternatives. I do so proactively around sensitive/emotionally-charged topics if I feel it's for the good of the class.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Joined April, 2018
4.8
1502reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
2 Degrees
Master's Degree in Education from University College London
Bachelor's Degree from Georgetown University
I teach a popular and highly-rated version of this class for younger students: https://outschool.com/classes/intro-to-the-art-of-debate-flex-class-x1ly2Z6X
and have decided to open a version for older students!
Also, my business degree includes courses on public speaking and I've served on international business case competition teams, which had a similar format to a debate.
It's crucial in today's world, filled with misinformation and arguments on social media, that young people know how to logically express themselves and engage with others. Reviews
Self-Paced Course
$10
weekly4 pre-recorded lessons
4 weeks of teacher support
Choose your start date
1 year of access to the content
Completed by 19 learners
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Ages: 12-17
