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UW Youth & Teen Programs

DebateAble: Debate for Middle School

Specifically designed for middle school students, this course teaches debate through discussion of issues that matter to you. You’ll be challenged to actively listen and argue both sides of any topic to cultivate a richer understanding of different perspectives. Hone your skills in critical thinking, high-level reasoning and evaluating evidence. The course includes a variety of activities to engage young debaters in a positive, upbeat environment. We’ll wrap up with a debate match on the last day of class, a required activity for all debaters (caregivers are invited to attend). 

UW Youth & Teen Programs is excited to partner with DebateAble, which brings its unique youth-focused curriculum to districts from Seattle to Dallas and young people across the country.

What You'll Learn

  • How to make presentations more powerful with stronger public speaking skills   
  • Ways to consider and argue topics from more than one side  
  • Tips for using evidence and persuasive reasoning in your arguments   
  • Debate formats and how to engage in civil argument  

Who Should Register 

This course is for incoming sixth to eighth graders.

Instructor

DebateAble is a Seattle-based organization that has developed a unique debate program for elementary and middle school students. DebateAble is bringing its curriculum to school districts throughout the country and helping students develop critical thinking abilities, tolerance for differing viewpoints, confidence in public speaking and teamwork skills. 

More Information

This online course is taught via Canvas and/or Zoom video conferencing. Classes meet in real time and are not recorded. Activities are held both synchronously and asynchronously. To participate, you should have access to a computer with a high-speed internet connection and a headset and webcam. 

See the Policies page for details about registration, refunds, waitlists and more. 

Details

Jul 29–Aug 9, 2024

A
Day
Mon–Fri
Time
1 p.m.–4 p.m.
Location
Online
Cost
$750
Refund Deadline
Jun 17, 2024
Register

Aug 12–Aug 23, 2024

B-1
Day
Mon–Fri
Time
9 a.m.–12 p.m.
Location
Online
Cost
$750
Refund Deadline
Jul 1, 2024
Register