Public Speaking & Persuasion Workshops

3-Day Online Workshop | August 1st ~ 3rd

Fri 2PM-5PM CT | Sat-Sun 11AM-5PM CT

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

Referral Discount: $20.00/referral

Class Size: 8-12 students

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

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

Flexible refunds offered until Monday, 7/22.

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.

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, August 1st

2:00-2:30 Opening Ceremony

2:30-3:00 Introduction to Speech & Debate

3:00-3:50 Public Speaking Icebreaker

4:00-5:00 Session 1: Argument Structure & Burdens

Saturday, August 2nd

11:00-11:15 Morning Meeting

11:15-12:15 Demo Debate & Walkthrough

12:15-1:15 Lunch

1:15-2:30 Session 2: Argument Generation

2:30-3:30 Session 3: Weighing

3:30-5:00 College Admissions Panel

Sunday, August 3rd

11:00-11:15 Morning Meeting

11:15-12:15 Session 4: Refutation

12:30-1:30 Lunch

1:30-2:30 Session 5: Public Speaking

2:30-3:30 Practice Debate 1

3:30-4:30 Practice Debate 2

4:30-5:00 Closing Ceremony

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.

Stakeholders

Who is impacted by decisions? Identifying key stakeholders is often the secrete to creating compelling arguments and making them matter to your audience.

Public Speaking & Confidence

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

Games & Activities

Throughout the session we will provide opportunities to practice what you've learned in interactive contexts. In addition to practicing formal rounds, we'll show you how techniques can be applied to everything from discussions with freinds to party games!

... and more!

Instructors

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Helen Wu

UChicago '25

2024, 2025 WUDC Semifinalist

#8 team in the US (2023, 2025)

5th Place at 2023 APDA Nationals

Emily Grant

UChicago '28

2024 NPDL Nationals Champion

2023-2024 #1 ranked NYPDL debater

...and more!

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

Application