A fun journey of self-discovery, critical thinking, and persuasive communication

Please Note: Student who participate in Speech and Debate, may compete in Virtual and/or In-Person Conferences ( Additional fees will apply)

When: Online- Zoom : Thur. 8 pm ET

Who:    Grades 6 -12

Time:   1 hour

Online Group size: limited to 6 students

Skill Level:  All Levels (Participation in this program is based upon skill level and Director’s Approval)

A Prerequisite waiver requires additional explanation of background, or abilities that adequately prepares the student for the program.

Focus : Speech and Debate is a combination of public speaking, acting, and arguing all in one competitive sport. Students will develop critical thinking, and persuasive communication that will shape them into a formidable debater! 

There are three “tracks” that students can compete: Speech, Oral Interpretation, and Debate. 

  • Speech competitors craft a persuasive and/or informative speech and then present it to a series of judges. Speeches are either written on the spot or carefully curated over the year. 

  • Oral Interpretation events competitors take pieces of literature and poetry and present their interpretation of them in a 10-minute scene either by themselves or with a partner. 

  • Debate students work as a team to prove their side of an argument against another team. ( 4 types of Debate)

 All sessions are recorded for reinforcement and feedback

*Enrollment Minima and Limits: All group classes have enrollment minimum and limits as listed in program descriptions. Public Speaking for Teens (PSFT) reserves the right to cancel, combine or reschedule sessions in the event the minimum number of (3) three students for the session is not met.