This class is meant to provide teen learners with a friendly, respectful environment in which to explore and discuss their ideas and opinions on difficult questions and claims with a group of peers and the instructor.  The teacher's role is to pose questions and claims, initiate discussion, play 'devil's advocate' to increase engagement and thought levels, and maintain focus on the topic at hand. Learners will be given a question or claim to consider before each class so that they have time to structure and develop their thinking. Everyone, regardless of experience with debate and discussion, will be able to fully engage with and enjoy the class.  This class is intended to be stress-free yet thought-provoking and engaging as we share and debate ideas with friends. 

Topics for the first few weeks of class are noted below:

Week of August 24 - Brief personal introductions, introduction to class purpose and expectations, establish norms and guidelines for respectful, engaging, inquisitive discussion and debate
Week of August 31 - Objective reality does not exist. Individuals create their own reality.
Week of September 7 - Does the continual development of artificial intelligence pose a threat to human beings?
Week of September 14 - Is it ever ok to lie?
Week of September 21 - Are human beings obligated to better themselves?
Week of September 28 - If people read more books the world would become collectively smarter and safer.









teens, middle school, high school, debate, social club, discuss, talk, opinion, friends, English, reading, writing