Ongoing Speech and Debate Club: The Art and Eloquence of Arguing
Kirsten Bowman JD
Popular
Average rating:4.9Number of reviews:(724)
In this ongoing club class, each week we will practice our debating skills with a different subject and format.
Class experience
US Grade 6 - 9
For 90 minutes each week we will practice our debate skills and critique each other. Each week will focus on different skills, such as how to think quickly and format a strong argument when rebutting, or how to present a solid original argument with structure and focus, or even how to throw off our opponent during a debate. The critical importance of respect for others opinions and kindness in argumentation will be present throughout the class, but we also plan to have lots of fun in this...
As a lawyer, I have spent many years of schooling learning debate format, argumentation skills and critical analysis of arguments. I have now been teaching The Great Debate on Outschool and absolutely love my hours spent with learners fine tuning our argumentation skills. I teach structure and format in the 10 week class.....this Debate Club is a place for learners to now come and practice their argumentation skills.
Homework Offered
Weekly preparation is useful to be effectively prepared for class.0 - 1 hours per week outside of class
Assessments Offered
If requested, grades and assessments are available. All assignments must be completed in order to receive grade or assessment.Grades Offered
If requested, grades and assessments are available. All assignments must be completed in order to receive grade or assessment.
Choosing debate topics is tricky. I encourage learners to engage in debate on both sides of an argument, even when they don't agree with the view point. I see this as a safe place to practice this skill, which can be very useful in understanding both your oppositions argument and view point as well as your own. By understanding the other side, you can more fully understand why you may hold a specific opinion or position. Having said that, I also tell my learners that it is important to know your boundaries and to know when you simply cannot argue a certain position. The topics are announced a week ahead of time, so if it is a topic that is unsuitable for the learner, they can opt out for that week. As well, as a rule, I stray away from current political issues and insist that the class remains respectful to everyone's personal right to their own thoughts and positions.
Popular
Average rating:4.9Number of reviews:(724)
I am a human rights lawyer by profession and a university professor and mom by passion. I have my JD with a specialization in international law and completed my PhD in international law in 2023. I have travelled the world working for the UN as a...
Group Class
$22
weekly1x per week
90 min
Completed by 541 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 11-16
4-16 learners per class
