DEBATE 1 COURSE DESCRIPTION
This course covers both logic and argumentation as well as the fundamentals of effective public speaking. Students work collaboratively in groups as they engage in class discussions on public policy issues and team presentations on legal issues. Students will develop communication skills for careers in law & public policy, government, management, and business as they prepare, practice, and present team debates following the Lincoln Douglas and Policy Debate formats. Skills learned include case building, refutation, cross-examination, organization, negotiation, and communication. Units of Study include Argumentation, Persuasive Techniques, and Fallacies.
DEBATE 2 COURSE DESCRIPTION
This course covers advanced critical thinking skills in logic and argumentation with a focus on arguing legal topics. Students collaboratively engage in class discussions focused on civil and criminal issues as they prepare and present Public Forum Debates & Mock Trials. Students will further develop public speaking skills for careers in law/public policy, government, management, and business. Skills learned include preparing civil and criminal case arguments, including opening and closing statements, demonstrating refutation and rebuttal skills through direct and cross-examination, and developing organization, negotiation, and communication skills. Units of Study focus on Argumentation & Public Forum Debates on current legal issues.