ABOUT US

After hosting our first successful camp last summer, we decided that we wanted to continue to offer debate courses for children. It was truly a wonderful opportunity for the kids, and many parents requested that we hold another session during the school year as well as during the summer. Now that we have some free time this spring, we will start up classes again. We hope that we can reach out to more students and get them immersed in this amazing activity. Our staff is made up of very qualified Langley High School debaters, many of whom have had experience with teaching debate. We hope to provide the best debate experience we can to your child.

WHY DEBATE

Debate helps students in so many aspects, from public speaking, to improvisation, and simply, just the ability to look at an issue from multiple angles. You will realize that the world isn't just black and white; instead it's many shades of gray. Even more, the researching and writing that comes along with creating debate speeches really comes into play in high school because of the striking similarities between essays and debate speeches. But don't be intimidated; no one starts off as a professional debater. It takes practice, much like everything else in life. And right now is a great time for anyone to start learning how it works by giving it a shot. Debate is a really great hobby or club to pursue and I urge you to at least let your child give it a try. Almost all politicians and lawyers have participated in some form of debate when they were younger. But even if being a politician or a lawyer isn't their thing, the ability to persuade people is a very useful tool in any area. Debate matches can get really intense and exciting, and they're always fun, regardless if you win or lose. It would be our pleasure to help your child begin their journey with debate today.

OUR MISSION

At McLean Debate Academy, we strive to instill the love of debate in students. Debate helps improve very necessary skills such as logical reasoning, public speaking, improvisation, writing, and listening with intent. That is why we offer high-quality camps and classes at a minimal cost. We believe that all students should have access and exposure to this amazing activity. In order to achieve this goal, we are trying to set up debate clubs at middle schools in the area. Our current goal to establish a debate team at Cooper Middle School. To do this, we are setting aside 20% of proceeds from this camp to help set up a debate club at Cooper Middle School. So far, we have already raised over $80 for this cause. With the help of parent volunteers, we will be able to start this club at Cooper and various other middle schools.

CAMPS

Spring (Beginner)

Sign up for the 2019 Spring Session

Students will learn the basics of Public Forum debate. They will learn how to conduct research on the topic, form their own arguments, write a case, and pick apart their opponent's arguments. Kids will also learn how to come up questions to ask their opponent during crossfires, a central part in any debate or court case. On the last day, a final debate match will be held where parents can come and watch. Light snacks and water will be provided.

Time: March 27 - May 1, every Wednesday (except April 17th) from 3:30pm - 5:00pm.

Location: Dolley Madison Public Library

Summer (Beginner)

Sign up for the 2019 Summer Beginner Session

This 5-day camp is recommended for rising 6th-8th graders who have had little or no experience in debate. The camp will last 2 hours each day. Students will learn the basics of Public Forum debate. They will learn how to conduct research on the topic, form their own arguments, write a case, and pick apart their opponent's arguments. Students will also learn how to come up questions to ask their opponent during crossfire, a central part in any debate or court case. On the last day, students will be able to debate two rounds, and parents can come and watch. Light snacks and water will be provided.

Session 1 Time: July 9 - 13 (Tuesday to Saturday), from 7:00pm - 9:00pm. The debate is on July 13th.

Location: The location for both camps will most likely be at the Dolley Madison Library, McLean Community Center, or near Cooper MS.

Cost: Early bird discount: $50, Regular: $70

Summer (Advanced)

Sign up for the 2019 Summer Advanced Session

This 7-day camp is recommended for rising 7th-9th graders who have had experience in debate (participated in a camp or debate club). The camp will last 2 hours each day. Students will briefly review the basics of general debate and Public Forum debate. They will learn rebuttal and turn strategies, as well as impact weighing, and other tactics that will help them win more debates. Students will also practice coming up with questions to ask their opponent during cross-examination, a central part in any debate or court case. Lastly, they will be able to debate in four rounds, two on the 4th day and two on the last.

Session 1 Time: August 11 - 17 (Sunday to Saturday), from 7:00pm - 9:00pm. Debates are on August 14th and August 17th.

Location: The location for both camps will most likely be at the Dolley Madison Library, McLean Community Center, near Cooper MS.

Cost: Early bird discount: $80, Regular: $100