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Getting Started – Why Your PM Speech is the Key to Success As the Prime Minister (PM) speaker, you’re the first one up for your team! This means it’s your job to set the stage, introduce your team’s plan, and make sure everyone understands what the debate’s all about. To do this, there are a few key steps you’ll need to cover: define important terms, explain what’s happening now, identify the problem, and present your team’s solution, also called the “model.” Step 1: Define the Motion – So Everyone’s on the Same Page Definitions are like the ground rules for the debate. You’ll want to make sure everyone knows what each key term means so no one’s confused about the topic. Sentence Starters: “In this debate, we define ‘[term]’ as…” “For the purposes of this debate, ‘[term]’ means…” Example: If the topic is “This House Would Ban Fast Fashion,” you could say, “For this debate, we define ‘fast fashion’ as low-cost, trendy clothes made quickly and often thrown away.” Step 2: Explain the Status Quo – What’s Happening Right Now? Once you’ve defined everything, explain the current situation. This helps everyone understand why this issue is important and needs to be debated. Sentence Starters: ·       “Right now, the situation is that…” ·       “Currently, it’s common to see…” Example: “Right now, the situation is that fast fashion is causing tons of waste and pollution, and a lot of these clothes end up in landfills.” Step 3: Identify the Problem – Why Does This Matter? Here’s where you highlight why the status quo isn’t great. Explain the issues with the current situation and why it’s a big deal. Sentence Starters: ·       “The problem with this is that…” ·       “This creates a major issue because…” Example: “The problem with this is that fast fashion is harmful to the environment and unfair to workers, who are often underpaid.” Step 4: Present Your Model – Your Team’s Big Solution! Your model is the solution your team proposes to fix the problem. Think of it as the game plan to make things better. Sentence Starters: ·       “Our model suggests that…” ·       “We believe the best solution is to…” Example: “Our model suggests banning fast fashion and encouraging people to buy sustainable brands, which reduces waste and supports fair treatment for workers.” Step 5: Show Solvency – How Does Your Solution Solve the Problem? Solvency is all about showing that your model will make things better. Explain why your solution actually works! Sentence Starters: ·       “This model will fix the problem by…” ·       “Our solution works because…” Example: “This model will fix the problem by reducing demand for disposable clothes, which means less waste and fewer environmental issues.” Step 6: Explain the Burden – What Do We Need to Prove to Win? The burden is what your team has to prove to win. Tell the audience what your team will show by the end of the debate to convince them your solution is the best one. Sentence Starters: ·       “Today, our goal is to prove that…” ·       “We have to show that…” Example: “Today, our goal is to prove that banning fast fashion leads to a cleaner environment and fairer treatment for workers.” Time to Unleash Your Best Arguments! Once you’ve set up the topic and model, it’s time to bring out your best arguments and end with a powerful conclusion! Each argument you make should link back to your model so that the audience understands exactly why your solution is the best one. Wrap it all up with a memorable conclusion that leaves everyone confident in your team’s victory! What Makes a Winning PM Performance? Being a great PM speaker isn’t just about what you say—it’s also about how you say it! Imagine yourself as a mix of a storyteller and a superhero. Great PMs use eye contact, strong gestures, and a clear voice to keep everyone engaged. Add a bit of humor and energy to show you’re confident and passionate about your points. Winning points come from smooth flow, clear explanations, and an energetic delivery. So, stand tall, get excited, and make your PM speech one to remember!

Is AI Writing Cheating? Let’s Talk About Plagiarism! Using AI to write essays or speeches can cause problems if you’re not careful. One big concern is plagiarism—taking someone else's work and calling it your own. If AI-generated content is used without giving credit, it’s hard to say who really created the work. This confusion can make it easy to cheat, especially in school projects.   Why Building Skills Is So Important At ThinkTalk, we believe it’s super important for students to practice writing and critical and creative thinking. Relying too much on AI for essays and speeches means missing out on learning how to express your own ideas and develop your own voice. These skills are essential for future challenges, whether it’s in high school, college, or your future career!   AI Might Not Be the Best for Fact-Checking AI tools aren’t perfect for creating fact sheets. In debates or research projects, you need accurate sources—like article links and publication dates. AI often struggles to provide this information, making your research less reliable. It’s smarter to do your own digging to find trustworthy facts.   Use AI for Ideas, But Do the Hard Work Yourself! AI can be great for brainstorming or getting inspiration, but it shouldn’t do all the work for you. The more effort you put into your writing and research now, the stronger and more confident you’ll become. Developing your skills today will pay off big time in the future!

The ESDP Fall 2024 Public Speaking Crash Course offers a detailed approach to developing public speaking skills, crucial for excelling in the upcoming tournament. This course provides students with the tools and techniques needed to craft and deliver powerful speeches, ensuring they stand out in a competitive environment. Why Structure Matters The approach to a successful speech begins with selecting a captivating topic. Choosing a subject that interests both the student and the judge is fundamental for engaging listeners and establishing a connection. Once students pick up their topic, the next step is to create an outline. This structured approach helps organize their thoughts and ensures a logical flow of ideas. A strong thesis statement is equally important—it’s a concise sentence that sums up the main point or claim of their speech, guiding the entire presentation. Finally, delivering their polished speech with confidence is crucial for making a memorable impression. Avoiding Common Mistakes and Engaging Your Audience Common pitfalls in speech preparation include lack of structure and failure to capture audience interest. To avoid these, students will learn how to use effective attention-getters, such as starting with a thought-provoking question or a compelling story. These techniques not only hook the audience but also set the stage for a captivating presentation. Engaging the audience from the start helps maintain their interest and enhances the overall effectiveness of their speech. Flexibility and Quick Thinking Impromptu speaking requires quick thinking and adaptability, skills that are priceless during the tournament. Practicing spontaneous speaking on various topics helps students prepare for unexpected questions and scenarios. Techniques such as mind mapping and bullet lists are excellent for organizing thoughts rapidly, ensuring that students can respond clearly and confidently even in high-pressure situations. Techniques for a Winning Presentation To make their speech stand out, students will learn how to employ techniques like uncommon facts and how to create vivid imagery to captivate their audience. Uncommon facts provide surprising insights that grab attention, while vivid imagery helps the audience visualize and connect with the message. Students will learn how to pose thought-provoking questions to encourage deeper reflection and use analogies and metaphors to clarify complex ideas. Connecting their speech to current events and proposing new solutions can further enhance its relevance and impact. Our ESDP Fall 2024 Public Speaking Crash Course is designed to equip students with essential skills for both prepared and impromptu speaking. By focusing on structure, audience engagement, and advanced techniques, students will be well-prepared to excel in the tournament and beyond, demonstrating their ability to communicate effectively and persuasively.

Teacher Chase joins us as an experienced and passionate teacher. He teaches Public Speaking, A3000, and other courses and has a special passion for teaching writing. What inspired you to become a teacher? I became a teacher because of my lifelong curiosity about the world and my love for learning. Since childhood, I have always asked ‘why’ and ‘how’, even when answers were elusive. As a teacher, I aim to promote a similar curiosity with my students. Asking questions is vital to the knowledge-building process. Moreover, I appreciate the optimism and inexorable feeling of progress that only an academic environment can bring. They say if you love what you do, you will never work a day in your life – for me, my passion is cultivating the minds of tomorrow. I believe that teachers have the capacity to promote positive future change by helping each and every student be successful. What are the standout moments in your career? One career highlight was representing the United States (U.S.) abroad as an English Language Fellow in Hungary and Poland. The English Language Fellowship, a program sponsored by Georgetown University and the U.S. Department of State, provided me with so many unique opportunities, such as working with highly motivated and ambitious students, giving lectures at conferences across central Europe, and meeting U.S. ambassadors, U.S. diplomats, and even U.S. President Joe Biden.  Another great honor was being admitted to the Doctoral Studies Program in Education at the University of Virginia (UVA). This is one of the best education programs in the U.S., and it’s been an incredibly enriching experience working with my peers and esteemed professors at UVA. My research in curriculum and instruction has immeasurably strengthened my abilities as a teacher. How do your interests outside of the classroom influence your approach to teaching? In my free time, I am constantly reading and being active. In my opinion, these are symbiotic activities that are essential for the development and maintenance of a scholarly mind. I encourage my students to also pursue a healthy balanced lifestyle for their academic, social, and emotional well-being. Furthermore, I am passionate about global travel – I have lived in many different countries and have explored the intricacies of the diverse languages and cultures there. Hence, I aim to bring a global perspective to my classroom that is characterized by tolerance and open-mindedness. What is the most surprising lesson you’ve learned from your students? Early in my career, I learned that students, no matter their age, also have much to teach. Therefore, in my opinion, one of the most essential characteristics of a teacher is the ability to actively listen to one’s students and encourage them to share their ideas. By promoting classroom dialogue, teachers can build a positive, supportive learning community where students feel comfortable taking risks – I firmly believe that a mistake can be just as valuable as a success if one learns from it. As a teacher, I have witnessed firsthand how the exchange of ideas enriches a classroom, both by building the knowledge and emotional intelligence of students. What do you hope students will remember most about you and your classes? Generally, my classes at Logic Bird focus on writing. I consider writing to be a tool for thinking, so therefore, I fundamentally hope for my students to leave my classroom as better thinkers. I believe in problem-based learning where students work with authentic issues and collaborate to propose realistic solutions. As a result, I hope that my students gain useful practice in considering the issues of today, including how to potentially solve them through lateral thinking and a can-do mindset. Last, I hope that my students graduate from my class with a heightened love of learning. It is undeniable that every topic is interconnected, and this web of knowledge is essential for truly understanding the world around us. Therefore, I hope my students understand that no topic is actually ‘boring’, no matter how dry it may seem at first. That’s because each topic can help us better understand the things that we are deeply passionate about. With that being said, I hope my students can find interest in any and all subjects.

In a globalized world, learning a second language is more than just a valuable skill—it’s a path to more diverse perspectives, improved cognitive abilities, and greater career opportunities. The New York Times Reading Course illustrates the lasting benefits through engaging content and real-world examples, demonstrating how language learning can transform young lives. How the Course Boosts Reading and Writing Skills The New York Times Reading Course has greatly improved students' reading and writing abilities. Through engaging articles and thought-provoking assignments, students have expanded their vocabulary, deepened their understanding of complex texts, and developed stronger analytical skills. The course's focus on current events and diverse topics challenges students to think critically and creatively, improving their ability to synthesize information and express ideas clearly. For instance, analyzing opinion pieces helps students understand various perspectives while refining their writing skills through structured responses. This approach not only increases their learning performance but also prepares them for writing and comprehension tasks, equipping them with the tools to excel in both their studies and everyday communication. Sharpening the Mind This course integrates articles and activities that challenge students to think critically and solve problems, strengthening cognitive benefits. Learning a second language through reading and discussion has been shown to boost cognitive functions like problem-solving and multitasking. Research from the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) indicates that these children often excel in executive functions such as working memory and attention control. For instance, a study by Penn State University found that they tend to have a higher level of cognitive flexibility, allowing them to switch between tasks more efficiently.  Cultural Awareness  This type of language learning opens doors to new cultures and perspectives. The New York Times Reading Course covers diverse topics, such as global environmental issues, through various cultural perspectives, exposing students to different viewpoints and histories. For example, a recent module explored the impact of climate change in the USA and Switzerland, helping students understand how different cultures approach environmental challenges. This exposure encourages empathy and cultural sensitivity, skills that are increasingly important in our interconnected world. Preparing for the Future Understanding multiple languages is a significant asset in today’s job market. The New York Times Reading Course highlights this through real-world examples. According to a report by the New American Economy, multilingual workers are highly desired, with employers valuing their ability to connect with diverse clientele. For example, companies like Google and IBM have actively searched for multicultural employees to manage international operations and enhance communication with global clients. By learning a second language through this course, students lay the groundwork for future career opportunities.

Teacher Brandon joins us as an accomplished debate coach. He and has a long record of coaching debaters. Let's get to know him more! Can you introduce yourself?  My name is Brandon. I have been teaching since 2016. My first teaching job was at Hofstra University, I was the assistant forensics coach there, while I was in graduate school. When I left Hofstra, I went to Cornell and acted as the speech director - teaching argumentation and debate. I also got a master’s in global development from Cornell. I have also been teaching online for both middle schoolers and high school students since the pandemic.  What are the highlights of your career? Being the only coach at Cornell University, the speech team went from not placing ranks in tournaments to being in the top 11 of the country. Apart from coaching I also helped the university with hosting DEI workshops for other faculty/staff, union groups and corporate organizations.  What do you think is the most important value of debate? Debate gives us one of the most powerful tools available to anyone which is the ability to see another person’s perspective. Debate allows you to take on the viewpoint of another side, and that is a skill and a tool that we are lacking in society. Debate allows us to engage in dialogue, and while we can disagree on different issues, debate allows us to see that disagreements are okay. How do you use debate in real life?  I have always seen speech and debate as a sport tied to advocacy in the real world. This is why I have always done both. I am the director of a non-profit organization called Tru Relief. Tru Relief aims to provide development training for other NGOs and international non-profit organizations. Making speech and debate actionable out in the world is what I do outside of teaching.  What do you like most about teaching at Logic Bird? I like teaching at Logic Bird because there is a lot of structure. There are a lot of resources and supportive tools available to the staff. Everyone is also very responsive. For example, if you have questions about something, the staff provides you these Loom videos and multiple folders of resources. I have worked with other companies where you are just left alone on your own. Logic Bird is different because the company actively reaches out to support you.  The students are also very attentive, they have a lot of good ideas and contribute very well to the class. Their abilities at their age are simply impressive. What do you do outside of debate?  The two biggest parts of my life are travel and performing. I have been to 27 different countries. I have lived in Ecuador for six months, but now I am currently living in Florida.

If you are looking for an exceptional program to enhance your child's English proficiency while also developing their critical and creative thinking skills, look no further than ESDP: English Speech and Debate Pentathlon! This competition is designed to challenge and inspire young minds, fostering comprehensive growth in communication and cognitive abilities. Enhancing English Proficiency Participating in the ESDP competition is a powerful way of improving your child's command of the English language. With a focus on content relevance, organization, and depth, students learn to create logically sound and content-rich speeches. The emphasis on language clarity, vocabulary, and grammar pushes students to refine their linguistic skills, ensuring they communicate effectively and confidently. The competition also encourages the use of figures of speech, adding expressiveness and flair to their language. Building Critical Thinking Skills In today's world, critical thinking is essential. The ESDP competition hones this skill by requiring students to analyze topics deeply, form coherent arguments, and defend their viewpoints. During debate preparation, they evaluate evidence and practice reasoning through argumentation drills. This rigorous training ensures that your child can form well-supported opinions and present them persuasively. Fostering Creative Thinking Creative thinking is a vital component of success. The ESDP competition fosters this through public speaking segments, particularly impromptu speaking, which challenge students to think quickly and creatively. Writing activities, such as crafting descriptive narratives and complex characters, further enhance their creativity. By exploring narrative arcs and conflicts, students learn to create engaging and compelling stories—skills that translate into powerful arguments and speeches. How do students prepare for the ESDP competition? At Logic Bird, each student receives constructive feedback, which is more valuable than mere compliments. Specific ways to improve are identified, ensuring that students get through all the material each day. Both oral and written feedback is provided for each activity, guaranteeing thorough understanding and continuous improvement. Also, Logic Bird’s ESDP summer camp offers a variety of learning sessions to prepare students comprehensively. In the interview session, students learn strategies for answering questions, seeking clarification, and understanding interview etiquette. Public speaking classes focus on impromptu speaking, verbal and nonverbal presentation skills, and practical speech practices. Debate preparation includes evaluating evidence, honing reasoning skills, and full practice days where students perform as if in competition. Hosting lessons cover public speaking strategies, writing welcome speeches, and reviewing effective speech examples. Finally, writing classes delve into descriptive writing, narrative arcs, conflicts, and tension, culminating in practice through short story writing. By participating in ESDP summer camp, students will be equipped with the tools they need to excel in communication and beyond. The structured feedback, diverse learning sessions, and emphasis on critical thinking ensure that every participant emerges as a more proficient and confident communicator. Don't miss this opportunity to give your child the tools they need to excel in communication and beyond!

Public speaking is a skill that holds immense power. Whether delivering a persuasive presentation, engaging in a lively debate, or mastering a new language, the ability to communicate effectively can open doors to countless opportunities. However, for many people, stepping onto a stage or into a virtual room to speak can be a daunting task. How can you build the confidence needed to become a proficient public speaker? Embracing the Journey of Public Speaking Public speaking is not innate; it is a skill that can be honed through practice and dedication. One of the most effective ways to build confidence in public speaking is through exposure. Engaging in debate clubs, participating in online learning platforms, and taking language classes are all avenues that offer a safe space to practice and refine one's speaking abilities. Harnessing the Potential of Online Learning In today's digital age, online learning has revolutionized education by making knowledge accessible to all. Platforms dedicated to public speaking offer courses and resources tailored to enhance communication skills. Through interactive modules, live sessions, and feedback mechanisms, individuals can progress from hesitant speakers to confident orators. Embracing online learning as a tool for self-improvement can be a game-changer in building confidence in public speaking. Empowering Through Language Classes Language classes provide a unique setting for individuals to broaden their linguistic abilities and cultural understanding. Beyond mastering grammar and vocabulary, these classes emphasize spoken communication. By actively engaging in conversations, delivering presentations, and participating in discussions, students develop a sense of ease and confidence in expressing themselves in a new language. This newfound fluency not only enhances linguistic proficiency but also nurtures confidence in public speaking across different contexts. Building confident speakers is a journey that requires patience, practice, and perseverance. So, step out of your comfort zone, engage with diverse learning experiences, and watch as your speaking prowess develops, empowering you to captivate audiences and command attention with every word spoken.

The importance of public speaking Public speaking is a vital skill that applies to many aspects of life, from professional to personal development. If mastered, the art of public speaking yields numerous benefits that extend beyond the podium. Some of the benefits include:  Critical Thinking: Engaging in public speaking hones one's ability to think critically. Speakers must organize their thoughts logically, anticipate counterarguments, and present their ideas persuasively. This process enhances analytical skills and promotes a deeper understanding of the subject. Language Proficiency: Regular practice of public speaking enhances language skills by fostering a stronger command of vocabulary, grammar, and syntax, which are crucial for effective communication. Additionally, public speaking improves rhetorical delivery and cultivates powerful diction. Communicative Skills: Public speaking enhances overall communicative abilities. It requires clarity of expression, proper body language, and the ability to connect with an audience. These skills are crucial for successful interpersonal interactions and leadership development.  Confidence : Public speaking builds confidence. Overcoming the fear of speaking in front of an audience and successfully delivering a speech boosts self-esteem and promotes a positive self-image. Global Citizenship:  Effective public speaking fosters global citizenship. It enables individuals to share their ideas and perspectives on international platforms, promoting cross-cultural understanding and cooperation. What We Offer We recognize the transformative power of public speaking and offer a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip students with these essential skills. Public Speaking Level-up Curriculum: Our cumulative curriculum is designed to build a solid foundation through weekly sessions. Each course is structured to enhance speaking abilities progressively. Semester Courses: These are carefully crafted to provide continuous improvement over an extended period. Week-by-week drills ensure that students develop a strong foundation in public speaking. Summer/Winter Camps: These intensive and immersive programs provide a concentrated learning atmosphere, allowing students to make significant progress quickly. TED Talk Series: By incorporating selected TED Talk videos, we ensure that students learn from speech masterpieces. This series is divided into different levels to cater to varying proficiencies. We offer three different courses within our TED Talk Series. TED Talk Junior: Focuses on fundamental skills and building confidence in young speakers. Students learn the basic skills necessary to craft and deliver a TED Talk on a topic of their choosing.  TED Talk Senior : Emphasizes advanced techniques and the development of a personal speaking style. This second course teaches Monroe’s Motivated Sequence to help guide students toward writing a logical and captivating TED Talk on a topic of their choice.  TED Talk Special Topics: Covers specialized topics and unique aspects of public speaking, providing a comprehensive understanding of various styles and formats. This course focuses more on storytelling and utilizes different topics about stories and how to tell a story to guide the students toward sharing their own stories.  Impromptu Speaking: This course highlights the importance of being able to improvise on any topic. It particularly benefits real-life situations and standardized language testing, such as TOEFL and IELTS spoken tests. The course is designed to improve quick thinking and spontaneous communication skills. Extemporaneous Speaking: Extemporaneous speaking differs from impromptu in that it involves more preparation time and focuses on delivering well-structured speeches on current event topics. This course helps students develop the ability to articulate their thoughts on current affairs and relevant issues, enhancing their global perspective. At Logic Bird, we believe public speaking is more than just a skill—it's a pathway to personal growth and life-long learning. Our courses are designed to provide students with the tools they need to succeed in a globalized world, fostering not only proficient speakers but confident and critical thinkers.

Debating, with its diverse formats and rigorous intellectual demands, offers a unique educational experience. British Parliamentary (BP) Debating stands out as a widely embraced and challenging format. This style, influenced by the actual proceedings of the UK Parliament, is intellectually stimulating and instrumental in building a range of valuable skills for students. Structure of British Parliamentary Debating British Parliamentary (BP) debating is a format that consists of four teams with each team having two members. Each team member is tasked to give one speech and present arguments for or against the motion. BP is known for its unique feature of having “opening” houses namely opening government and opening opposition. These opening houses discuss the main arguments in the motion and set up the debate. Meanwhile, the  “closing” houses, namely the closing government and closing opposition, are required to extend the arguments of “opening” without simply repeating the opening speech or contradicting the opening speech. In BP debating each team is tasked to prepare only for 15 minutes. This limited preparation time is known to foster fast critical thinking skills and excellent analysis for the debaters who use the format. BP debating also fosters team chemistry since arguments need to be presented and defended within very strict time limits. During the BP debate, speakers can offer Points of Information to their opponents. Points of Information can be used as a question to clarify the argument of your opponents or to refute the other team. Unlike any other formats, such as the World Schools Debating Championship or Public Forum debate, there is no reply or summary speech in BP. Benefits of British Parliamentary Debate 1. Sharpening Analytical and Critical Thinking Skills With only 15 minutes to prepare, debaters must quickly digest information, formulate strategies, and craft persuasive arguments. This intense preparation mimics the pressures of real-life decision-making, honing students' ability to think on their feet. 2. Enhancing Communication Skills Effective communication is at the heart of BP debating. Participants learn to express complex ideas succinctly and persuasively, improving their public speaking and argumentation skills—abilities that are crucial both in academia and in the workplace. 3. Cultivating Quick Thinking and Strategic Agility The interactive nature of BP debates, especially during exchanges of Points of Information, tests debaters’ knowledge and spontaneity. This fosters not only quick thinking but also the strategic use of information to steer debates favorably. 4. Developing Empathy and Open-mindedness Debating various viewpoints, often irrespective of personal beliefs, helps debaters understand and articulate diverse perspectives. This practice builds empathy and enriches students' understanding of complex societal issues. 5. Promoting Teamwork and Collaborative Skills Success in BP debating relies heavily on teamwork. Debaters must synchronize with their partners to present unified arguments and defend against rebuttals, enhancing their collaborative and strategic planning abilities. 6. Providing Competitive and Academic Advantages The competencies developed through BP debating make participants stand out in academic and professional arenas. These debaters are often more adept at tackling complex questions and presenting well-formed arguments during college admissions interviews and job applications. 7. Offering Broad Learning and Networking Opportunities Participating in the BP format opens doors to a variety of national and international competitions, such as the World Universities Debating Championships and the Asia British Parliamentary Championships. These events not only allow students to showcase their debating skills but also to network and learn from peers around the globe. Final Thoughts BP debating format is widely used at the World Universities Debating Championships & Cambridge Asia British Parliamentary Championships, with several regional competitions adapting it as well. It is hard to master, but it provides an endless amount of complex and exciting events that students can grow from. Learning how to debate in BP opens up a multitude of opportunities for students since numerous debate competitions use this format.

Debate is an essential educational tool that significantly enhances students' critical thinking, public speaking, and comprehensive research abilities. Engaging in structured debate formats allows students to explore diverse perspectives, articulate their ideas effectively, and develop a keen sense of empathy and understanding. This article delves into the significance of debate in education and provides an overview of three prominent debate formats: Lincoln-Douglas, Public Forum, and British Parliamentary. Why Debate Matters Critical Thinking : Debate requires students to analyze complex issues, evaluate evidence, and construct logical arguments. This process enhances their ability to think critically and make informed decisions. Public Speaking: Regular debate participation helps students develop confidence in public speaking. They learn to articulate their thoughts clearly and persuasively, an essential skill for any professional field. Research Skills: Debaters must research their topics thoroughly, which improves their ability to gather, assess, and synthesize information from various sources. Empathy and Understanding:   By arguing both sides of an issue, students gain a deeper understanding of opposing viewpoints, fostering compassion and respect for differing opinions. Debate Formats  Lincoln-Douglas Debate Overview : Named after the famous debates between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen A. Douglas, the Lincoln-Douglas (LD) debate focuses on values and philosophical issues. It is a one-on-one debate format in which each debater presents arguments for and against a resolution. Structure Resolution : Typically framed around a moral or ethical issue. Rounds : Each round includes constructive speeches, rebuttals, and cross-examinations. Timing : Constructive speeches are 6 minutes long, rebuttals 3-4 minutes long, and cross-examinations 3 minutes long. Skills Developed Emphasis on ethical reasoning and value-based argumentation. Development of individual research and speaking skills. Public Forum Debate Overview: Public Forum (PF) debate involves two teams who argue for and against a resolution. The topics are usually current events or policies, making them accessible and relevant to the public. Structure Resolution: Focused on contemporary issues and policies. Rounds : Each team presents constructive cases, engages in crossfire (a period of open questioning), and delivers rebuttals and summaries. Timing : Constructive speeches are 4 minutes long, crossfires are 3 minutes long, rebuttals are 4 minutes long, and summaries are 2 minutes long. Skills Developed Collaboration and teamwork. Ability to engage in cross-examination and rapid refutation. Research and argumentation on current events and public policy. British Parliamentary Debate Overview:  British Parliamentary (BP) debate is the format used in many international competitions, including the World Universities Debating Championship. It involves four teams (two on the government side and two on the opposition) debating a single motion. Structure Motion: Usually a statement of policy or principle. Teams: Each side consists of two opening and two closing teams, each with two speakers. Rounds: Each speaker delivers a constructive speech and engages in points of information (brief interjections) from opposing teams. Timing : speeches are typically 7 minutes each. Skills Developed Flexibility and adaptability, as speakers must respond to arguments from multiple teams. Advanced strategic thinking and collaboration. Ability to deliver speeches with limited preparation time. Importance of Debate Debate is a powerful educational tool that equips students with essential skills for their academic and professional lives. Whether through the value-based focus of Lincoln-Douglas, the current event-centered approach of Public Forum, or the dynamic and strategic environment of British Parliamentary debate, students gain invaluable experience in critical thinking, public speaking, and effective communication. By participating in these structured debate formats, students enhance their intellectual abilities and learn the importance of empathy, respect, and collaboration in addressing complex issues.

Public Forum (PF) debate is an accessible and engaging format designed to help students develop critical thinking, public speaking, and research skills. Our Public Forum Camp is specifically tailored for beginners who are eager to build a solid foundation in PF debate. Through interactive lessons, practical exercises, and daily debates on official PF topics for 2023 and 2024, students will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in this form of debate. Course Overview The camp is designed to engage students in the specifics of Public Forum debate through a balanced mix of theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Over seven days, participants will progressively build their expertise, starting with the fundamentals and advancing to more complex aspects of the PF debate format. Early sessions focus on understanding the PF format, crafting arguments, and learning essential debate techniques such as card cutting and flowing. As the camp progresses, students dive deeper into the roles and responsibilities of speakers, mastering the art of Constructive and Rebuttal speeches. Each day includes interactive activities and practice debates on official PF topics, ensuring that students apply their learning in real-time scenarios. The latter part of the camp is dedicated to improving debate skills and strategies. Students will engage in Summary Speeches, Final Focus and Grand Crossfire sessions, where they practice direct exchanges, and learn to perform Impact Calculus, which is crucial for weighing the importance of arguments across debate formats. Emphasis is also placed on effective preparation, time management, and strategic planning. By the end of camp, participants will be familiar with the PF tournament requirements through the introduction of PF judging criteria and tournament structure, and will have developed strong teamwork and collaboration skills, essential for success in PF debates. This broad approach ensures that students not only learn the mechanics of debate, but also gain the confidence and competence needed to excel in competitive settings. Importance of Public Forum Debate Students benefit much from learning Public Forum discussion in both academic and personal settings. One of the primary causes is that PF debate pushes students to apply advanced critical thinking abilities by having them examine complicated topics from different perspectives. Students gain transferable abilities in any subject by learning how to construct coherent, convincing arguments and skillfully counter opposing views. In order to build strong arguments, debaters must also perform in-depth research, which enhances their capacity to recognize and assess reliable sources. Continuous practice delivering speeches and participating in cross-examinations builds confidence and proficiency in public speaking. Lastly, group work fosters strong cooperation abilities in students by teaching them how to plan ahead and assist one another under pressure. Through engaging lessons and practical debate experiences, students will emerge as confident, capable debaters ready to tackle complex issues and excel in any discussion.