This is our catalog of courses. We will occasionally adjust the course listing to reflect the addition of new courses and the retirement of others.
Learn the art of argumentation and hone your presentation skills as you get involved in the democratic debate process. Participate in a number of exercises, including a Mock Presidential Debate and Mini Debates — and learn how to defend issues that affect our faith and culture.
Total Classes: 12
Duration: 55 minutes
Prerequisite: None
Suggested Grade Level: 9th to 12th grade
Suggested Credit: One full semester of Debate, Speech, or Communications
Description
How can young people learn to argue reasonably for what they believe in a world that’s filled with angry arguments? In this course, students will learn the art of argumentation and “forensics” and will be challenged to hone their skills of presentation and oral communication as they participate in a number of exercises, including a Mock Presidential Debate and Mini Debates on issues that affect our faith and culture. This course is both fun and challenging!
Course Outline
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Introduction
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How Argumentation Works
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Preparation for First Debate
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First Live Classroom Debate – Part I
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First Live Classroom Debate – Part II
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Errors of Logic and Argumentation
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How to Find and Evaluate Evidence
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Group Discussion – Part I
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Group Discussion – Part II
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Arguing on the Internet
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Final In-Class Debate – Part I
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Final In-Class Debate – Part II
Materials and Homework
Course Materials: Handouts in the form of PDF files provided free by the instructor
Homework: Assignments and readings and debate prep. Two to three hours per week on average. Students will also be required to watch and report on all Presidential Debates.
