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Introduction to Debate - Middle School

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Introduction to Debate - Middle School

This middle school course introduces students to the fundamentals of debate structure, critical thinking, and argumentation. Through the study of current events and social studies, students will build foundational skills in analyzing real-world topics, constructing logical arguments, and engaging in thoughtful discussions. The class emphasizes developing essential skills that prepare students for more advanced debate formats and critical reasoning in various subjects.

Learning Outcomes

  • CDA-MS-1.1: Develop a foundational understanding of debate structure and the organization of arguments.
  • CDA-MS-1.2: Integrate social studies and current events to enhance research, analysis, and argumentation skills.
  • CDA-MS-1.3: Construct coherent arguments with a clear thesis and structured support.
  • CDA-MS-1.4: Apply critical thinking to evaluate evidence, identify biases, and assess the reliability of sources.
  • CDA-MS-1.5: Strengthen communication through clear articulation of ideas, peer feedback, and structured debates.
  • CDA-MS-1.6: Develop skills in rebuttals and counterarguments to enhance persuasive strategies.
  • CDA-MS-1.7: Foster collaborative learning by engaging in team-based discussions and group problem-solving.
  • CDA-MS-1.8: Build confidence in public speaking by practicing argument delivery in varied settings.
  • CDA-MS-1.9: Cultivate a deeper understanding of civic issues and social responsibilities through debate topics.
  • CDA-MS-1.10: Encourage self-reflection on debate performances to promote continuous improvement.
  • Early Bird Registration Opens
    December 1, 2024
    Registration Opens
    December 3, 2024
    Registration Opens
    December 3, 2024
    Registration Ends On
    January 8, 2025
    Late Registration Ends
    January 18, 2025
    Registrations Closed
    Registrations Closed
    Class Starts On
    January 12, 2025

    Session Season

    Winter 2025

    Frequency of Session

    Weekly

    Age Range

    0

    -

    0

    years

    Skill Group

    Introductory

    Location

    Online

    Total Number of Slots

    20

    Remaining Slots

    20

    Number of Sessions

    10

    10
    14
    Dylan Pope

    Course Structure

    30%

    Increase in top tier college
acceptance rates

    85%

    Increase in analytical skills, according to the NSDA

    45%

    of Harvard students competed in debate

    15%

    Increase in self-esteem, according to the NSDA

    Course Instructor

    You will be trained by the best instructors in the industry

    Dylan started debating back in 2015 in high school and was immediately drawn to Public Forum. He found plenty of success across the regional circuit, which landed him a scholarship to debate for a D1 team in college. In college, he won several PF tournaments across the country, such as the Gorlock Gala in 2022. He was a quarterfinalist in PF at the 2021 and 2022 PKD National Tournaments and took 1st place in PF at the 2023 PKD National Tournament. Outside of PF, he has also collected a variety of first-place trophies in debate events such as IPDA and NPDA.

    Dylan likes to coach a more communication-oriented style of debate and thinks the right blend of technical skills and communication is the path to winning any tournament. By prioritizing speaking style, he believes debaters develop the skills to adapt to any judge or opponent in front of them. Being able to quickly simplify and explain complicated arguments is key to winning judges, which is what ultimately wins rounds.

    He is super excited to join the NDC team. Debate has made him lifelong friends, let him travel the country, paid his tuition, and decorated his walls with glorious trophies and awards. He can’t wait to help students achieve the same results.

    INSTRUCTOR

    ELITE INSTRUCTOR

    Dylan Pope

    Assistant Coach

    Boise State

    Bids

    Rounds

    Win %

    Affordability

    Civic Debate Academy makes high-quality debate coaching affordable for all. With flexible pricing, financial aid, and scholarships, no student is held back by cost. We're here to ensure everyone can excel in debate, without breaking the bank. If you want to join the program, cost won't be the reason you don't.

    Register Now

    Tuition Fees

    Resident

    Full Tuition Amount

    $

    695

    Non-Resident

    $

    Comprehensive Prep Package

    Included

    $800

    On-Demand Support

    Included

    $960

    Scholarship Available

    - $

    Early Bird Discount

    - $

    50

    Late Registration Fees

    $

    50

    !

    Financial aid is awarded on a case-by-case basis. Click here to schedule a financial consultation with us

    Enroll Now

    Ready to register? Click the button below to secure your spot and start your debate journey!

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    FAQ

    Hello, How can we help you? - #FAQ

    Is there a makeup policy for missed classes?

    CDA does not offer makeup classes, but students can easily stay on track using CDA’s custom online learning portal, which provides access to class recordings and assignments. They can also message their instructor for help offline during the week!

    Are CDA classes available online or in-person?

    Yes, CDA offers both online and in-person classes to provide flexibility and accessibility for all students, no matter their location. Use filters on our class search page to find the perfect class for you!

    Is there homework in CDA classes?

    Yes, there may be some take-home work assigned to help students reinforce the material and practice their skills outside of class sessions. This ensures a deeper understanding of the content.

    What age groups are CDA classes designed for?

    CDA provides programs for students from 1st through 12th grade, with specific classes tailored to each age group and skill level. Each class specifies the appropriate age range and skill level on its posting.

    What types of classes does CDA offer?

    CDA offers classes tailored to students of all levels, from beginners learning debate fundamentals to advanced competitors preparing for national tournaments. Not sure where to start? Schedule a free consultation!

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