# Formal Debate Foundations Course ## Module 1: Introduction to Formal Debating **Objective:** Familiarize students with the formal structure and goals of debating. ### Lessons: - What is a Debate? (Formal vs Informal) - Common Debate Formats (focus on Modified Lincoln-Douglas & Team Style) - Speaker Roles and Responsibilities ### Activities: - **Quiz:** Identify Speaker Roles - **Watch & Reflect:** Short student debate sample --- ## Module 2: Building Strong Arguments **Objective:** Teach students how to structure convincing arguments. ### Lessons: - What Makes a Good Argument? (Claim, Reason, Evidence) - Framing Your Point: Clarity and Logic - Using Examples and Evidence Effectively ### Activities: - **Argument Builder Template:** Fill-in-the-blanks - **Submit:** One-paragraph argument on a given topic --- ## Module 3: Rebuttal & Critical Thinking **Objective:** Teach how to identify weaknesses in opposing arguments. ### Lessons: - What is a Rebuttal? (Definition and Strategy) - Identifying Weak Arguments - Respectful Disagreement Techniques ### Activities: - **Rebuttal Practice Sheet** - **Submit:** Video rebuttal to a sample argument --- ## Module 4: Research & Preparation **Objective:** Help students prepare content-rich, well-researched speeches. ### Lessons: - Choosing Reliable Sources (Intro to online research) - Organizing Your Notes (Using the 3-point model) - Creating a Debate Outline ### Activities: - **Research Practice:** Topic worksheet - **Submit:** Research-based outline for a practice debate --- ## Module 5: Public Speaking & Delivery **Objective:** Improve speech clarity, presence, and expression. ### Lessons: - Voice Modulation & Pacing - Using Gestures and Eye Contact (tips for camera delivery) - Dealing with Stage Fright (and online speaking anxiety) ### Activities: - **Warm-up Game:** Tongue twisters & voice drills - **Submit:** 1-minute video demonstrating vocal techniques --- ## Module 6: Debate Strategy & Team Coordination **Objective:** Learn teamwork and strategy for winning debates. ### Lessons: - Collaborating with Teammates (Argument Division) - Flowing the Debate (Note-taking & Tracking Opponent's Points) - Time Management in Speeches ### Activities: - **Flow Sheet Practice** - **Submit:** Strategy Plan with role assignments for a team debate --- ## Module 7: Practice Debates **Objective:** Apply all skills in structured, mock-style debates. ### Lessons: - Preparing for the Mock Debate (Choosing side, writing speeches) - Peer Review & Feedback (Guidelines for constructive critique) - Self-Evaluation Techniques ### Activities: - **Mock Debate Round 1:** (Solo or Partner) - **Submit:** Full Debate Video + Reflection Sheet --- ## Final Project & Certification ### Includes: - **Comprehensive Quiz:** Key concepts & formats - **Final Debate Submission:** Evaluated with scoring rubric - **Digital Certificate of Completion** --- ## Additional Features: - Downloadable Planning Templates (Speech Outline, Rebuttal Cards) - Interactive Practice Quizzes (after each module) - Optional Peer Review (submit & exchange feedback) - Progress Dashboard for learners and parents - **Badges:** “Argument Architect”, “Rebuttal Star”, “Confident Speaker”