Leaders Debate
"Debate is the art of thinking on your feet." - Winston Churchill
Why learn debate?
Debate is a formal discussion on a particular topic in which people express their opinions and try to persuade others to agree with them. There are many different formats of debate, but they all share the same basic goal: to help people understand and appreciate different perspectives on a given issue.
Debate is an important skill to learn for a number of reasons. First, it can help you develop your critical thinking skills. When you debate, you are forced to carefully consider all sides of an issue and to come up with strong arguments to support your own position. This process can help you to become a more critical thinker in all areas of your life.
Second, debate can help you improve your communication skills. When you debate, you are required to clearly and concisely articulate your ideas. You must also be able to listen to and respond to the arguments of others. These are all important communication skills that can be used in a variety of settings, both personal and professional.
Third, debate can help you build confidence. When you debate, you are putting yourself out there and taking a risk. If you are successful, it can be a very rewarding experience. This can help you to build your confidence and to feel more comfortable speaking up in other situations.
There is a growing body of research that shows the benefits of debate. For example, a study by the National Center for Education Statistics found that students who participate in debate are more likely to graduate from high school and to attend college. They are also more likely to be involved in extracurricular activities and to have higher grades.
In addition, debate can be a valuable asset on college applications. Many colleges and universities look for students who are active in debate, as it is seen as a sign of critical thinking skills, communication skills, and confidence.
Finally, debate is a skill that will become increasingly important in the future. In a world where information is constantly changing, it is more important than ever to be able to think critically and to communicate effectively. Debate can help you to develop these skills, and it can give you a competitive edge in the job market.
"Debate is not about winning or losing. It's about learning and understanding." - Barack Obama
Leaders Debate Levels
Topos and Ethos
Elementary students grades 3-6
This class focuses on teaching the fundamentals of debate. Students will develop a strong foundation in constructing persuasive arguments and effectively communicating ideas. They will learn different debate formats and gain exposure to various styles of argumentation.
Throughout the course, students will refine their speaking skills by identifying and correcting flaws in speeches, such as logical fallacies, style, and weak evidence. They will receive constructive feedback to enhance their public speaking abilities. Additionally, intermediate-level concepts will be explored, including counterarguments, refutation strategies, an array of topical knowledge, and debate terminology, enabling students to engage in more sophisticated discussions.
Practical exercises, like speech making drills and full debates, will provide real-world application of learned concepts. Students may also have opportunities to participate in local debate tournaments or engage in interclass debates. By the end of the class, students will possess a strong foundation in debate, equipped with the tools to construct compelling arguments, communicate effectively, and excel in both academic and professional settings.
Pathos
Middle school students grades 1-3
Pathos is an exclusive debate class designed for motivated middle school students who are eager to excel in the realm of debate and enhance their chances of admission into top high schools. This class focuses on developing a deep conceptual understanding of debate while honing students' speaking abilities to maximize their competitive edge.
Throughout their time in Pathos, students will dive into advanced debating skills, going beyond the basics to explore more complex argumentation techniques. The emphasis is on cultivating a thorough understanding of logical frameworks, counterarguments, and persuasive strategies. By mastering these advanced concepts, students will be equipped to construct compelling arguments that captivate judges and stand out in competitive environments.
In addition to advanced conceptual understanding, Pathos places significant emphasis on strengthening students' speaking abilities. The class is structured to push each student to develop their public speaking skills to a level that greatly enhances their chances of admission into top high schools. Through intensive practice and individualized coaching, students will refine their delivery, voice projection, and overall presentation skills, ensuring they make a lasting impact on their audience.
The ultimate goal of Pathos is to empower students to be as competitive as possible, equipping them with the tools and techniques to excel in debate competitions and improve their chances of gaining admission into their desired high schools. By the end of the class, students will possess a comprehensive understanding of advanced debate concepts, enhanced speaking abilities, and the confidence necessary to thrive in high-pressure debating environments.
Kairos
Middle school and High school students
Kairos is specifically designed for our top-performing debaters who have already achieved significant success in both national and international debate competitions. This advanced-level program is dedicated to honing the skills of these exceptional students, equipping them to become leaders within their school's debate club and positioning them for potential acceptance onto the prestigious World Schools National Team.
The primary focus of Kairos is to nurture the development of our elite debaters as leaders within their debate community. Through specialized training and mentorship, students will learn how to effectively guide and inspire their peers, fostering a culture of excellence and camaraderie within their debate club. Emphasis will be placed on cultivating leadership qualities such as effective communication, mentorship, and strategic thinking.
Furthermore, Kairos aims to help students build an impressive resume that showcases their debate accomplishments and positions them as highly competitive candidates for future opportunities. Students will receive guidance on crafting compelling debate portfolios, highlighting their championships, awards, and notable achievements. This class will also provide exclusive opportunities and access to resources that will further enhance students' debate credentials and bolster their chances of securing coveted positions on the World Schools National Team.
In order to maximize students' growth and exposure, Kairos prioritizes participation in a wide range of competitions. Students will be encouraged to attend as many competitions as possible, and the class will provide support and guidance throughout the preparation process. The ultimate goal is to attain as many championships as possible, cementing students' positions as top contenders in the debate circuit.
By enrolling in Kairos, students gain exclusive access to advanced skills training and unparalleled opportunities in the field of debate. This class is tailored for the most accomplished debaters, providing them with the guidance, mentorship, and resources needed to excel as leaders, secure prestigious debate positions, and achieve unprecedented success in their debating careers.
"Debate was a life changing experience that enhanced all aspects of my life. It was fun, challenging, and the lessons continue to guide towards success each and every day."
Anne Kim, Graduated Kairos Debater and Seoul National University Graduate
Debate is the future
As the world becomes more interconnected, it is becoming increasingly important to be able to understand and appreciate different cultures and perspectives. Debate can help you to develop these skills, and it can make you a more well-rounded individual.