Description:   Since the beginning of human history, a great debate has raged — and as a Christian academy, we have the unique privilege of examining today's issues through the lens of God's truth.

This course is designed to sharpen your thinking and strengthen your voice. We'll kick off the semester with a Persuasive Speech, where you'll learn how to research effectively — finding data, statistics, and quotes that support your ideas and communicate your convictions clearly.

From there, you'll team up with a partner and dive into the art of debate. Topics can range from lighthearted (Resolved: Cats are superior to dogs) to deeply meaningful — current events, spiritual truths, worldview questions, and more. We'll build your skills step by step in a supportive environment, and since notes are allowed, you may be surprised by just how much you grow.

Note: Parents are welcome to attend and critique the debates in the latter part of the class (super helpful for the kids).

Below is a sample debate:

Tutor: Andrea Merboth has a BA in Occupational Therapy. She has homeschooled 4 children and been a high school Sunday School teacher for ten years as well as a coach/leader in Bible Quizzing for twelve years. For three years she was involved in the excellent Institute for Cultural Communicators (ICC) both in their speech/communications program and their debate program. She also has taught Speech for two years at the TRUTH Academy and has directed several plays, one-acts and skits, all which help to develop a student’s ability to speak in public. The comfort that Mrs. Merboth has in speaking in public was born out of her youth involvement as an assistant to a magician and later, to over ten years performing on stage with a band. Comfort on stage and before the microphone has opened many doors and proven that those who are comfortable and skilled will be the voice that is heard in a crowd-something which is critical to reaching the hearts of generations of people for Christ.

Cost: $$222, $232 or $242 (depending on registration date)/em>
Level: Grades 9-12
Prerequisite:: None
Homework: Memorization for the Persuasive Speech at the beginning of the class, then weekly gathering of material to support your debate topics.
Text/b>: Access to your Bible and a library/computer