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Introduction to Debate

A Six-Week Program for Middle School Students

Middle school students are invited to a free program series to discover skills and gain confidence through learning about debate! This series will be led by Park Tudor junior and debate champion, Penelope Guevara!

This free six-week program series introduces middle school students to the fundamentals of debate. Students will learn how to research topics, construct persuasive arguments, respond to opposing viewpoints, and speak with confidence. No prior experience is required - just curiosity and a willingness to participate! Each of the sessions will present a new topic, but will build off one another, so attendance at all sessions is highly encouraged! Please speak to library staff if you need assistance registering for all programs in the series. All materials will be provided, but students should bring a notebook and pen. The schedule and topics for each session are:

• Week 1 - What is Debate?    
      Introduction to debate: what it is, why it matters, and how it works. Students will explore different debate formats and discuss the value of civil argumentation.
• Week 2 - Research & Evidence
      How to find reliable information, evaluate sources, and use evidence effectively. Students will practice researching a sample topic using library resources.
• Week 3 - Building Arguments
      The structure of a strong argument: claims, reasons, and evidence. Students will learn to organize their ideas clearly and persuasively.
• Week 4 - Responding to Others
      Listening actively, taking notes, and crafting rebuttals. Students will practice identifying weaknesses in arguments and responding respectfully.
• Week 5 - Speaking with Confidence
      Public speaking techniques: voice, posture, eye contact, and pacing. Students will deliver short speeches and receive constructive feedback.
• Week 6 - Putting it All Together
      Students will have mini-debates on topics of their choosing. Students will apply everything they have learned in a supportive, low-stakes environment.

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