Public Speaking & Debate

This course is aimed at 15 to 18 year olds who would like to learn to communicate effectively and confidently and will give students the chance to practice their debate, writing and public speaking skills through a series of workshops and classes. Through a combination of activities, guest speakers and field trips, students will learn the basics of argumentation, rebuttal, public speaking, news reporting and speech writing. Each participant will be able to present their ideas in a confident and convincing manner.
Public Speaking & Debate course is suited for students interested in studying law, political science, economics, communications or journalism at a University level and those whom have an interest in learning debating skills.
Students will be taught and given techniques:
in fundamentals of effective oral delivery including body control, use of voice and diction, and analysis of audience
about the importance and 'art' of preparation in public speaking and debating
regarding the selection and arrangement of material and use of transitions and theoretical effects in making brief speeches to inform, persuade, or entertain
how to structure ideas and arguments in their speeches in a sustained, persuasive and sophisticated way and support them with precise and relevant examples
Students will also be taught how to read, discuss, and write about speeches in order to interpret and evaluate the impact of ambiguities, subtleties, contradictions, ironies, and incongruities.

Target group

13-18

Course aim

Throughout the course students will be required to give at least seven formal speeches.  These speeches are designed to give students experience in a range of speaking situations.  Speech class is unlike many other classes in that it directly applies to students’ lives both now and in the future.
This course is designed to help students:
gain confidence and experience in public speaking
perform a variety of speeches in class that require expositive, persuasive, debate, parliamentary and interpretive skills
locate sources through research and differentiate between reliable and unreliable sources
incorporate sources into speeches and conversations in order to support a position
become proficient in research techniques, including Internet research, newspaper research, periodical research and primary research (interviews)
increase their working knowledge of current events
differentiate between fact, opinion, and fact-driven opinion
develop critical thinking skills and the ability to look at both sides of an issue
develop an appreciation for opposing viewpoints
develop an awareness of posture, vocal quality, personal appearance and verbal and non-verbal communication in all speaking situations, including personal interviews
exhibit a logical arrangement of ideas in writing and in speech
exhibit the ability to draw logical conclusions from critical evaluation of facts and ideas