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Intro to Debate - Elementary School

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

Speak Confidently
Argue Persuasively
Research Critically
Elementary School
May 09, 2026 Aug 15, 2026
Sunday 11:45 - 12:45 PM CT
In-Person
Sun
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.

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 — Elementary School

14-Week Course for Elementary School Students

Course Overview

This beginner-friendly course introduces elementary students to the exciting world of debate. Over 14 weeks, young learners will discover how to share their opinions, support their ideas with reasons, and listen respectfully to different viewpoints.

What Students Will Learn‍

Students will learn the basics of making an argument—stating a claim, giving a reason, and explaining why it matters. Through fun topics and guided discussions, they'll practice speaking in front of peers and responding to simple questions about their ideas.

Skills Developed‍

This course builds foundational skills in public speaking, active listening, and critical thinking. Students will gain confidence expressing themselves, learn to organize their thoughts, and develop respect for different perspectives.

Course Outcome‍

By the end of the course, students will participate in mini-debates and be ready to continue building their communication skills in future debate programs.

When will the course happen

Session Timeline

Now Enrolling for

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
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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

$
749

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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