Introduction to Debate and Public Dialogue

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Getting Ready To Celebrate Kwanzaa - Pre-Teens/Teens 10-14

Hope Koumentakos

Average rating:5.0Number of reviews:(2)

This class is an introductory overview of the Socratic method, logos, pathos, and ethos, and how these are used by successful orators. We will spend the second half of the class facilitating a Mock Debate. Who will come out on top?!

Class Experience

We will spend fifteen minutes covering a brief overview of the difference between public dialogue and debate, as well as how the Socratic method is used in dialogue. Then, we will spend a few minutes defining logos, pathos, and ethos and discussing famous examples. Finally, during the second half of the class, the students will be divided into two teams and assigned roles. Each student will have the opportunity to give an opening argument, closing argument, or rebuttal. At the end of the...

Students will learn the basics of debate methodology and how to engage in constructive, effective public dialogue. This class lays the groundwork for students interested in taking more advanced debate classes (I offer a four-session advanced course, for example).

While in college, I was the Head Delegate to Harvard University’s annual international Model United Nations conference. My team also took home the winning title in the highly publicized Jerusalem and Athens Forum annual debate. Beyond undergraduate studies, I have continued to be a devout student of Plato’s accounts of Socrates as well as Aristotle, Aquinas, and other ancient and classic exceptional orators. In my work as a freelance web designer and copy writer, I have also helped several small businesses, nonprofits, and agencies to incorporate the concepts of effective oration and logic into their public materials.

Homework Offered
Assessments Offered
Grades Offered

0Please bring a notebook, writing utensil, and a phone, tablet, or laptop with internet access.

Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.

Meet the teacher

Hope Koumentakos

Average rating:5.0Number of reviews:(2)

Hi friends! My name is Hope, and I am a writer and educator based in the Washington, D.C. Metro Area. My experience is diverse. I have worked in web design, women’s rights initiatives, community development and outreach, copy writing, and...