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Junior Varsity - Middle School

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

See class schedule
Speak ConfidentlyArgue PersuasivelyResearch Critically

Riki Balu

Stanford Finalist

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

Class Schedule

Junior Varsity - Middle School

Aug 31, 2026 – Dec 7, 2026
5:00 PM – 6:30 PM CT
TBA
MondayOPEN CLASS
Sep 1, 2026 – Dec 8, 2026
6:00 PM – 7:30 PM CT
TBA
TuesdayOPEN CLASS
Sep 1, 2026 – Dec 8, 2026
7:45 PM – 9:15 PM CT
TBA
TuesdayOPEN CLASS
Sep 2, 2026 – Dec 9, 2026
8:00 PM – 9:30 PM CT
TBA
WednesdayOPEN CLASS
Aug 27, 2026 – Dec 3, 2026
7:00 PM – 8:30 PM CT
TBA
ThursdayOPEN CLASS
Aug 30, 2026 – Dec 6, 2026
6:30 PM – 8:00 PM CT
TBA
SundayOPEN CLASS
What will they learn?

Our Critical Learning Standards

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 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.

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.

When will the course happen?

Session Timeline

Sum '26
Now Enrolling For
Fall 2026
Win '27
Sum '27

Start Date

August 31, 2026

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End Date

December 7, 2026

Skill Group

Junior Varsity

Location

Online

Class Frequency

Weekly

Total Number of Slots

10

Number of Sessions

14

Next Course

Varsity Debate

Where we expect your student's to go

Next Step in Learning

Winter 2027

Varsity Debate - Middle School

Summer 2027

Travel Team - Middle School

Who are CDA for

Did you know? CDA students can start competition in real tournaments in as little as 6 months?

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

Why choose CDA?

Trust Us 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

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.

Tuition & Financial Aid

Full Tuition$995
Comprehensive Prep PackageIncluded$995
Weekly mocks and Drill SessionsIncluded$960
$995 One-Time Payment

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.