Student goals include:  
I.   Enhancement of critical thinking and reasoning abilities.
II.  Further academic advancement and development. 
III. Development of sound and logical arguments.
IV. Learning the value of extensive and intense study of an issue, from all sides. 
V.  Development of Communication Skills, having the adaptability for many styles and allowing for complex argumentation. 

I am a semi-retired Professor and High School teacher.  I am also a practicing attorney in New York State.  I taught Speech and Debate for many years at the Middle and High School Level.  I was an award winning coach at the State level.  My students also competed at the National Level.  Several received scholarships to college based on their speech and debate accomplishments.  I have also taught Advanced Placement US Government, Advanced Placement Comparative Government and traditional High School Government for over ten years.  I know it is important to introduce a fact based, non biased lesson to students that will foster discussions with their family.  For twenty years I have had the opportunity to work with students from Pre-K through Graduate School in both a traditional learning atmosphere and those classes that deviate from neurotypical teaching.  I held my teaching certification in World History/US History/Government and Economics for Middle and High School.   My teaching philosophy is that all students are individuals and unique learners that must have a stimulating educational environment where they can grow physically, mentally, emotionally, and socially. It is my desire to create this type of atmosphere where students can meet their full potential. I will provide a safe environment where students are invited to share their ideas and where mistakes are considered education victories.
     While incorporating the eight learning styles into each class, I believe that there are five essential elements that are conducive to learning. (1) The teacher's role is to act as a guide. (2) Students must have access to hands-on activities. (3) Students should be able to have choices and let their curiosity direct their learning. (4) Students need the opportunity to practice skills in a safe environment. (5) Technology must be incorporated into the school day.

Each week the instructor will work with debate groups and they will be expected to complete assigned parts of their arguments.  Students should expect 1-2 hours of work weekly after the third week.  For speech events, students should practice their piece daily and fill out practice sheets as well as supplemental worksheets (such as character bios) for their event.

Grades are available upon request.  Student will receive full points when they can check off everything on teachers rubric.

55 minutes per week in class, and an estimated 1 - 2 hours per week outside of class.

We will be using a Character Database
NSDA videos
Lincoln Douglas Handbook
Newspaper Articles (Middle School Appropriate Articles)