Speech & Debate for Social Justice

Speaking up for justice and for what one believes in are one of the core values of The Athenian School. In this class, students will investigate social movements, humanitarian needs, and environmentalism topics of interest. One of the most important skills students can learn is to feel comfortable giving a speech or presentation in front of a group of people. This course will explore some of the techniques required to become an effective public speaker and debater no matter what the venue. Students will learn how to deliver information effectively by practicing verbal technique, eye contact, body language, and word emphasis. There will be a final culminating speech project on their social issue of choice on the last day of class.