This program focuses on Lincoln-Douglas debate, a one-on-one values debate. Students who participate in debate acquire important skills that help them succeed in college and in careers that value clear communication. John F. Kennedy said that "the give and take of debating, the testing of ideas, is essential to democracy," and leaders in such diverse fields as law, news casting, and business management attest to the contribution that school debate made to their careers. Debating builds confidence in speaking in front of audiences as well as in interpersonal communications. Good debaters present articulate, logical arguments and defend their arguments with tact and grace. They develop skills in research, writing, persuasive speaking, time management, and thinking clearly under pressure. The course will cover logic and methods of argument, as well as philosophy pertinent to our bi-monthly resolutions.

English 221/222/223:  Debate: Theory and Practice                                    1/6 credit (Fall/Winter/Spring/2 periods per week)

Class time will be used to prepare and practice for local tournaments and to obtain individual coaching. Students will be expected to participate in at least one tournament per trimester.  Costs for additional tournament fees and food/lodging expenses for out-of-town tournaments will be the student’s responsibility.  Students taking this course join the Debate Program on Tuesday and Thursday.

May be repeated for credit 

English 231/232/233:  Debate:  Theory and Example                                  1/6 credit (Fall/Winter/Spring/3 periods per week)

Class time will also be used to prepare and practice for local tournaments and to obtain individual coaching. Students will be expected to participate in at least one tournament per trimester.  Costs for additional tournament fees and food/lodging expenses for out-of-town tournaments will be the student’s responsibility.  Students taking this course join the class on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.

May be repeated for credit 

English 251/252/253:  Debate:  Theory and Competition                            1/3 Credit (Fall/Winter/Spring/5 periods per week)

Class time will be used to prepare and practice for local tournaments and to obtain individual coaching. Students will be expected to participate in at least two tournaments per trimester.  Costs for additional tournament fees and food/lodging expenses for out-of-town tournaments will be the student’s responsibility. This class meets daily.

May be repeated for credit