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In this class, learners will be able to consistently practice their public speaking and debate / argumentation skills through team debating. This class is designed for learners who are moving up from our Beginner class (see below) or have had some prior debate experience. 

Learners will be given the debate resolution a week prior to class. (This topic is listed in the class description and the welcome email). They will not be assigned a side (affirmative or negative) or a team until the start of class. Learning how to debate for either side regardless of their personal opinions improves their skills, but also encourages more thorough research. 

Some examples of possible debate topics would be:
- Should the artifacts currently held in the British Museum and museums like it be sent back to their countries of origin?
- Do violent video games make their players violent?
- Should we legalize the use of performance enhancing drugs in sports?
- Should plastic surgery be banned?
- Should felons be able to vote?

At the start of class, teams will be assigned randomly and be moved to a monitored and guided in breakout room to prepare and plan their debate. 

After prep time, the class will come together to debate using the Public Forum format. Learners will have a role (cross-examiner, closer, etc)  and an allotted amount of time to present their case.  After the debate has concluded, the teacher will provide feedback to both sides and declare a winner. 

If it's not a full class, the class will start by giving the students a random topic to practice impromptu speaking. They will then have 5 minutes to curate a speech (no research needed) and deliver it during the class. The more often they do this, the better they will get a being able to think on their feet and turn those thoughts into effective and compelling conversations and speeches.   If it's a full class, all time will be spent in preparation and debate. 

If your child doesn't have any experience in debate or public speaking, please consider starting with our Beginners class:https://outschool.com/classes/public-speaking-debate-club-beginners-hbOxf41F

Upcoming Debate Topics:
Week of 11/24/24: Purchasing clothes made of animal furs should be illegal.
Week of 12/1/24: Social media should be restricted for anyone under 18.
Week of 12/8/24: Art is only a frivolous luxury and is unnecessary for society.
Week of 12/15/24: Standardized tests are good for education.
Week of 12/22/24: Physical currency should be eliminated.
Week of 12/29/24: It is better to set a goal that is aspirational than to set a goal that is achievable.

We also offer private group classes and 1:1 tutoring! 

This class is backed by Outschool's Happiness Guarantee.