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Intro to Debate - High School

A structured introduction to debate designed for middle school students interested in argumentation and public speaking.

Speak Confidently

Argue Persuasively

Research Critically

High School

May 10, 2026 – Aug 16, 2026

Sunday 3:15 - 4:45 PM CT

Schaumburg, Illinois

Sun

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Riki Balu

CDA has helped me grow a lot as a debater. The coaches and the class schedule are great for enhancing prep and in-round strategy as a debater. I would recommend this club if you want to join a good environment and become a better debater.

#1 Debater in the United States

What will they learn

Our Critical Learning Standards

Introduction to Public Forum Debate

‍14-Week Course for High School Students

Course Overview‍

This introductory course provides high school students with their first comprehensive experience in Public Forum debate. Over 14 weeks, students will develop the skills needed to research effectively, construct structured arguments, and collaborate with a partner in real-time competitive settings.

What Students Will Learn‍

Students will master the core components of Public Forum debate, including case construction, crossfire questioning, rebuttals, and persuasive delivery. The course covers how to find and cite credible evidence, build compelling contentions using the Claim-Warrant-Impact framework, and engage strategically with current events and real-world issues.

Skills Developed‍

Beyond debate mechanics, this course builds public speaking confidence, critical thinking, and collaborative teamwork. Students will learn to analyze arguments, weigh competing impacts, and adapt their approach for different judges and situations.

Course Outcome‍

By the end of the course, students will participate in full-length practice rounds and be fully prepared to join JV or competitive debate teams.

When will the course happen

Session Timeline

Now Enrolling for

Start Date

May 10, 2026

End Date

August 16, 2026

Skill Group

Introductory

Class Frequency

Weekly

Number of Sessions

Location

Schaumburg, Illinois

Total Number of Slots

Class Day

Sun

Where we expect your student’s to go

Next Step in Learning

Did you know? CDA students can start competition in real tournaments in as little as 3 months?

Schedule a consult to hear more about our national champion trajectory program.

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Why Choose CDA

Trust by our numbers

30%

Increase in top tier college acceptance rates

85%

Increase in analytical skills, according to the NSDA

45%

of Harvard students competed in debate

15%

Increase in self-esteem, according to the NSDA

Learn More About

Course Instructor

Adan is a communication educator passionate about helping students find clarity, confidence, and authenticity in their voices. She holds a Master’s degree in Communication, specializing in Organizational Communication and Rhetoric. For the past two years, Adan taught Public Speaking at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, consistently ranked in the top 5 percent of instructors. She is also a McNair Scholar and has secured multiple institutional fellowships to support her communication research.

Adan has designed and led public speaking training for tour guides and coached engineering students to translate complex technical ideas into engaging, accessible presentations. She has also presented original research at national and regional communication conferences in front of hundreds of academics, with her work exploring rhetoric, technology, and identity.

Adan is excited to join the Civic Debate Academy team and looks forward to helping students refine their skills, expand their perspectives, and discover the power of their voices.

Adan Mulvaney

Elite Instructor

Instructor

Class Instructor | University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Bids

Rounds

Win

How much does it cost

Affordability

Civic Debate Academy makes high-quality debate coaching affordable for all. With flexible pricing, financial aid, and scholarships, no student is held back by cost. We're here to ensure everyone can excel in debate, without breaking the bank. If you want to join the program, cost won't be the reason you don't.

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Tuition & Fees

Tuition Amount

995

Course Materials

Free

After Class Support

Free

If you want your child to join this program, cost will not be the reason they can’t. We’ll work with you to find a solution that fits your family’s budget. Click here to learn more about financial aid.

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We have just launched CDA Camps!

CDA camps are now open for registration — structured programs for middle and high school students, led by experienced classroom teachers and top-ranked debate coaches. From beginners to advanced competitors, every student has a clear pathway to grow.

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