DEPARTMENTS

  • Public Forum Debate
  • Extemporaneous Speaking
  • Lincoln Douglas Debate

PUBLIC FORUM DEBATE
July 8 - August 4, 2012

PUBLIC FORUM DEBATE CURRICULUM

student photosThe Northwestern Public Forum Debate summer intensive will immerse the student in the procedure and practice of championship level competition.  Focus will be in three main areas: Research, Argumentation and Communication.

At Northwestern we prize the quality of argument and evidence rather than quantity.  Though in our research module, numerous topics will be addressed as students learn the most effective methods to provide resolution evidence.  Special attention will be given to proposed resolutions for the 2011-12 season.

By offering a 4-week intensive, Northwestern Speech Institute will address the complete public forum debater; giving each student the best research, argumentation and communication skills.  Each student will be prepared not just for the next month's resolution topic, but for the entire year as they will have the best foundation on which to develop each resolution as it comes along. The Institute will conclude with a mock tournament.

EXTEMPORANEOUS SPEAKING
July 8 - August 4, 2012

Image guy with pencilThe extemporaneous speaking department will offer lectures that cover both foreign and domestic issues, providing students with background knowledge in every possible area. Daily coaching, practice speeches and cross-examination will encourage you to use the information you’ve learned to craft analytical and successful speeches. A mock tournament will be offered at the conclusion of the Institute.

 

LINCOLN DOUGLAS DEBATE
July 8 - August 4, 2012

The four week Lincoln-Douglas debate program at Northwestern University is designed to be the most comprehensive and accessible debate program in the country.  The National High School Institute firmly believes that all styles of debate are relevant and important, and as such, students receiving instruction will leave Northwestern prepared to compete locally, regionally, and nationally.

The LD program will feature a revolving curriculum that pairs students with instructors who are uniquely qualified in relevant areas of expertise. Students can expect instruction in various modes of political and philosophical thought from ancient political theory to postmodernism.  While focusing on the major strands of political theory, students will be able to attend various sessions on particular philosophers and theorists.

Moreover, the NHSI program will help debaters to gain an understanding of nationally successful debate strategies designed to bridge the gap between the local and the national circuits.  However, such instruction will never come at the detriment of traditional argumentation and speaking skills.  Debate is a communicative activity, and our emphasis on persuasion will help students to win state championships, and gain an edge on less well-rounded competitors.

In addition to a comprehensive lecture series; speaking drills, argumentation drills and practice debates will give each debater the ability to hone his/her skills. Students can expect to leave with extensive knowledge about the NFL topic areas proposed for the upcoming year. A mock tournament will be offered at the conclusion of the Institute.
NHSI is the one program in the country with a truly national focus, ensuring respect for all styles of debate, and all regions in which students will be competing.  This is a Lincoln Douglas experience designed to meet your specific academic, communicative, and competitive needs