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Public Speaking & Persuasion Workshops

3-Day Online Workshop | July 21 - 23

15 hours of instruction | Fri 2PM-5PM CT | Sat-Sun 11AM-5PM CT 

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Cost: $249.00/student (need-based financial aid available)

Referral Discount: $25.00/referral

Class Size: 20-30 students

Open to: 6-12th grade (no debate experience required!)

Space is limited and offered on a first come, first serve basis!

Syllabus

Experienced Instructors

 

We pride ourselves on having experienced instructors who bring their expertise and passion for debate to the classroom. Our instructors have a deep understanding of the subject matter and are actively involved in the debate community, ensuring that students receive the highest quality instruction and guidance. With their wealth of knowledge and firsthand experience, our instructors empower students to develop skills that will last a lifetime.

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Through interactive activities and engaging discussions, students receive immediate and personalized feedback from our instructors. This real-time feedback allows students to understand their strengths, identify areas for improvement, and make tangible progress in their public speaking abilities. By nurturing a supportive learning environment, we ensure that every student's voice is heard and valued.

Schedule

Friday

2:00PM-3:00PM Opening Ceremony

3:00PM-4:00PM Introduction to Debate

4:00PM-5:00PM Team-building Activities

 

Saturday

11:00AM-11:15AM Opening

11:30AM-12:30PM Workshop & Activity

12:30PM-1:30PM Lunch

1:30PM-2:30PM Workshop & Games

2:45PM-3:45PM Workshop & Activity

4:00PM-5:00PM Office Hours

 

Sunday

11:00AM-11:15AM Opening

11:30AM-12:30PM Workshop & Games

12:30PM-1:30PM Lunch & Office Hours

1:30PM-3:00PM Practice Rounds

3:00-4:30PM Mini-Tournament!

4:30PM-5:00PM Awards & Closing

 

*All times in CT (Central Time)

WORKSHOP TOPICS

 

Introduction to Debate

Discover what debate is all about! In addition to learning the foundations of debate, students learn how excel in various public speaking opportunities throughout middle school and beyond.

 

Structure of an Argument

Uncover the secrets to constructing compelling and persuasive arguments in this engaging workshop which offers the building blocks for effective argumentation: claims, warrants, and impacts.

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Impacting and Weighing

Learn how to identify the key impacts in a debate and effectively communicate them to an audience.

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Refutation

Techniques to identify and counter arguments from opponents on the fly. Explore different types of refutation and how to dismantle opposing arguments by employing logical reasoning and evidence. 

 

Public Speaking & Confidence

 Learn techniques to enhance your public speaking skills and captivate audiences through interactive activities and practice delivering impactful speeches. 

Instructors

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Sydney Cook

UChicago '26

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Aidan Shannon

UChicago '25

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Jesenia Parthasarathy

UChicago '26

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Helen Wu

UChicago '25

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Ethan Ross

UChicago '24

FINANCIAL AID

Our goal is to provide an high quality, affordable debate education for all. We hope to make Chicago Debate Academy accessible to as many students as possible!

 

CDA offers need-based financial aid ranging from 10% – 100% of the full program cost for prospective students whose financial circumstances prevent them from meeting the full cost of the program.

To apply, please fill out the Financial Aid Form below and the official registration form above. We will get back to you with the finalized financial aid details within 1-3 business days. For more inquiries, please email chicagodebateacademy@gmail.com

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