Speech & Debate for Grades 6-8 and 9-12 at PCLC 


​2024-2025 Classes:
Grades 9-12 (there are two options):
Thursdays, 1:00-2:30 PM; or Thursdays, 2:45 PM-4:15 PM
Grades 6-8 (there are three options):
Tuesdays, 10:45 AM-12:15 PM; Thursdays, 10:45 AM-12:15 PM; or Thursdays, 2:45 PM-4:15 PM

Please Note:
  • All classes cover similar areas of communications but are adjusted according to level.
  • Continuing enrollment, from year to year, means opportunity for continued growth. ​
  • Class assignments are varied from year to year with a few favorites repeated.
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Noteworthy Aspects of the Course
  • Students are not evaluated on a curve but against their own prior performances which serves to propel individual growth.
  • Assignments that require outside of class preparation are alternated with assignments that require little or no outside preparation. There is also an attempt to keep load lighter during finals.

  • This class is for students who are reluctant as well as those who thrive on performing (and every student in between those two extremes).
  • New assignments are almost always given at the top of the class. This increases the importance of being on time.
Typical Class Session
  1. Listen & Learn (instruction, new assignments, notes)
  2. Performances & Review (from peers & instructor) or in-class time to work on group assignments

The year focuses on four main areas:
  • Focus on Speech
    • Introductions and Creating Class Connections
    • Assignments likely to include
      • Platform speaking (an original composition, either fully scripted or fully outlined)
      • Literature Interpretation (somewhat similar to acting)
      • Limited Preparation Speaking (speeches that require little or no at home preparation.
    • Teaching and Evaluation will include every aspect of delivery.
  • Focus on Debate
    • Elements of Argumentation
    • Common Fallacies
    • 4 Point Refutation
  • Focus on Special Assignment: such as Toastmasters Meeting model, Mock Trial or Podcasting
    • Mock Trial: introduction to the various roles people play in court trials (judge, attorney, defendant, bailiff, etc.); introduction to terms and procedures commonly used in court trials; analyzing testimony and role playing
    • Podcasting: introduction to engaging an audience; drafting the script;, interviewing others; tools for recording editing and mixing
  • Final Projects (individual & group)
    • Individual assignment to be determined but likely to be an assignment that involves the use of persuasive techniques.
    • Group Assignment: to be determined.
SPECIAL NOTE: These classes are fun. We laugh at ourselves a lot. This class is more active and hands-on than lecture-filled. There is a definite social element to these classes which make Speech & Debate a great place to meet new friends.