So You Think You Can Debate?

Well, whether you think you can or not, these debate workshops taught by experienced debater and coach Isaac Lichlyter* will help you learn and hone the skills needed to participate in competitive team policy debate. Parents, whether your student is totally new to debate or simply looking to take the next step, these workshops will provide them with the instruction and hands on experience they need.

Two separate workshops for both novices and advanced debaters will be held at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, during the week of June 25. The first workshop, a 1 day class for new debaters, will take place on Monday, June 25 from 9 AM – 3 PM. This workshop will cover:

-        Speaking in public

-        How to write an affirmative case/negative brief

-        How to flow (take notes during) a debate round

-        How to persuasively present an argument

-        Basic research techniques

At the end of the workshop, participants will be able to practice applying the concepts discussed by participating in an informal debate round.

The second workshop is geared towards students who have been debating for at least 2 years (going into their 3^rd year) although exceptions may be given on a case by case basis. This workshop will be held June 26-27 from 9 AM – 3 PM. Topics to be discussed include:

-        How to sharpen your Cross-Examination skills

-        How to effectively use evidence

-        Negative organization and strategies

-        Non-traditional case structures

-        Resolutional Analysis (A laptop computer is not required, but would be helpful)

The price is $45/student for the beginner workshop and $70/student for the advanced workshop (Family discounts may be offered for families with multiple students)

Registration is limited to the first 20 participants!!

To register or if you have any questions please contact Lisa Lichlyter at: lichlytl@bellsouth.net

* Isaac Lichlyter competed in NCFCA Team Policy debate for 5 years. During his senior year of high-school, Isaac served as a student assistant for the Contenders Speech and Debate Club in Birmingham. While in college, he has also served as an assistant coach for the Memphis Debate Club. Isaac is a 2-time NCFCA Region 7 Team Policy Debate champion as well as an NCFCA National Team Policy Debate semi-finalist. He has earned numerous speaking awards including 9^th place at the 2007 NCFCA National Tournament and 11th at the 2009 NCFCA National Tournament. For the past two years, Isaac has contributed to NCFCA's The Source.