Middle School Junior Varsity Public Forum Debate

14-Week Course for Middle School Students

Course Overview

This course is designed for middle school debaters with some experience who are ready to sharpen their skills and step into competitive Public Forum. Over 14 weeks, students will move beyond the basics and into the strategic side of debate — learning how to flow rounds, weigh arguments, and collaborate effectively with a partner to win.

What Students Will Learn

Students will deepen their understanding of Public Forum round structure, speaker roles, and what judges look for in a round. The course introduces research skills like cutting cards, evaluating source credibility, and organizing evidence into digital blockfiles. Students will also learn how to anticipate opposing arguments and prepare strategic responses in advance.

Skills Developed

This course emphasizes competitive readiness through guided drills and scrimmage rounds. Students will build stronger flowing techniques, practice weighing arguments under time pressure, and develop the teamwork habits that set successful debate partnerships apart. Along the way, they'll grow more confident engaging with current events and constructing persuasive, evidence-based positions.

Course Outcome

By the end of the course, students will be prepared to enter tournaments with confidence and a personalized debate toolkit. They will leave with stronger research habits, sharper strategic thinking, and the ability to reflect on their performance to set meaningful goals for continued growth.