Who This Class is For:

 

Students in grades 5–7 who are ready to move beyond simple opinions and begin constructing well-reasoned arguments, understanding both sides of a debate, and preparing for formal competition formats like Lincoln-Douglas.

What Students Will Learn:

This course introduces students to structured debate using the Lincoln-Douglas (LD) format, with a strong emphasis on critical thinking, research, writing, and delivery. Students will practice developing cases, crafting rebuttals, engaging in cross-examinations, and speaking persuasively in front of others.

 

Weekly Topics Overview:

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• Week 1: Building Strong Arguments – Logic, Claims, and Evidence

• Week 2: Introduction to the LD Debate Format

• Week 3: Research Skills – Finding Credible Sources

• Week 4: Frameworks – Defining Fairness and Values

• Week 5: Rebuttal Strategies – Countering Opposing Views

• Week 6: Cross-Examination – Asking and Answering Under Pressure

• Week 7: Public Speaking – Voice, Body, and Confidence

• Week 8–9: Resolution Workshops – Developing and Testing Debate Cases

• Week 10: Practice Debates – Compete and Reflect

 

Materials Used:

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• NSDA Lincoln-Douglas Debate Guide

• Instructor-created research and framework worksheets

• Sample cases and resolution handouts

 

Learning Goals:

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• Write and present clear, persuasive arguments

• Understand debate structures and scoring

• Practice real-time thinking, questioning, and refutation

• Build confidence to speak in formal settings and tournaments