Extracurricular Program
Introduction to Speech & Debate

June 10 – August 3, 2024

8-WEEK ONLINE COURSE • GRADES 9–12

Introduction to Speech and Debate is a beginner’s guide to competitive and compelling public speaking.

Learn how to speak confidently in any scenario and discover methods and practice drills used by the country's top student speakers. Reap the benefits of practicing in a “team” setting, without the pressure of traditional competition.

Regardless of education focus, learning how to communicate effectively is a core skill needed in every industry. From class presentations to college interviews, speaking with charisma is an underutilized yet essential professional tool.

You'll finish this program ready to debate your classmates, give informative presentations, and even improvise compelling speeches.

Prerequisites

• This program is open to students in grades 9–12

• No prior public speaking experience is necessary.

Takeaways

Students will complete the program with:

• Structured outlines for different communication styles (e.g., Persuasive, Informative, Collaborative, etc.)

• Improved short-form writing through practice drills, improvised speeches, and class debates

• Competition information and evidence research required to enter NSDA Speech & Debate events

Instructor

Leahkim Luansing has been involved in high school and college debate since 2008.

As a competitor and coach, she worked with independent and nonprofit institutions to develop and teach various strategies used in competitive events such as Policy, Public Forum, Parliamentary, and Lincoln-Douglas Debate.