Summer Academic Enrichment Eligible Programs

Goals

Lincoln Douglas Debate (LD) is a one-on-one event where debaters argue against one another on a specified resolution. Many people refer to LD Debate as a “values” debate, as questions of morality and justice are commonly examined. During this session, students will:

• focus on developing their research, writing, and public speaking skills. • deepen or develop their listening, note taking, and critical thinking skills. • actively participate in speaking exercises, topic discussions, and research sessions. • understand basic elements of Lincoln Douglas speaking like values, criterion, and stock issues • become familiar with basic philosophical concepts necessary to compete in Lincoln Douglas Debate

These skills and content knowledge directly translate to essay writing and analysis in social studies courses. Public speaking, argumentative writing, and deep reading of non-fiction texts prepares students for success in their English coursework and beyond.

Activities

Students learn to think on their feet and speak during games and practice rounds, improving moment to moment. We offer a low-stakes environment where students can build the skills they need to thrive at high-pressure tournaments during the season.

Our knowledgeable, caring, and experienced staff love forensics and they want to share the activity with you! We hire experienced university instructors, classroom teachers, and speech and debate coaches who have a proven track record of coaching champion speakers from many backgrounds.

It's not all work and no play. Frequent breaks and a free lunch period are important for our camp model. We make time for rest and opportunities to connect with fellow campers. Whether students like outdoor fun, board games, or arts and crafts, they'll enjoy the 'traditional camp activities' we try to integrate where we can!

Each camp's programming increases in difficulty and complexity day-by-day, allowing shy students to become accustomed to speaking in public bit by bit before they reach the camp's cumulative event, a showcase or tournament. In the case of Lincoln Douglas Debate, students hold a mock Lincoln Douglas tournament judged by volunteers who are familiar with Lincoln Douglas Debate.

Program Dates

High School – Lincoln Douglas Debate – Quick Start camp will be held on the following dates:

06/24/2024 – 06/28/2024 M – F, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Can students reside on campus? No

Can students commute to campus? Yes

Can students take online classes? No