What is the forensics/speech and debate team?
 | We're a team / club that prepares for and travels to local, regional, and national trips to forensics and debate tournaments. We're supported by our school coach, Mr. Cannon, and some awesome volunteer college coaches. Forensics isn't like CSI: It's public speaking and "interpretation" (basically contest acting) and you can do it on your own or with a friend. There are many kinds of Debate as well: student congress, policy debates with partners, and philosophical debates on your own. |
| What's in it for me?
click here for more details - Make friends from other schools, states, & countries!
- Improve Ivy Leage admission chances up to 60%!
- Join the National Honor Society for speech & debate!
- Visit prestigious colleges, e.g. Harvard!
- Improve your relationships: Learn how to settle conflicts and understand others' point of view.
- Become persuasive! (good for parents, teachers, etc)
- Win medals, trophies, cash and scholarships!
- It helps in other classes: Presentations, discussion, research, and essays become easy!
- Try any event you want: debate, solo or duo acting, children's storytelling, poetry, impromptu speaking, orations, current events, congress, etc.!
- Take fun overnight trips!
- Build your confidence!
- Prepare for your future career!
- Speak and think quickly on your feet!
What does it take to be on the team? You just need interest! There are no "cuts" or "tryouts." There aren't a lot of requirements, although if you want the better opportunities (e.g. overnight trips or special tournaments like Harvard, State, or Nationals), you need to practice with us regularly. Generally, we meet once a week to talk about team and then have practice once a week for whatever event you want to try. For bigger tournaments or at the beginning, practicing twice a week is a good way to start. (You might do one practice with another team member and the other with your coach.) You'll need to help us fundraise and we will have a suggested dues contribution but we'll make sure anyone can participate; regardless of financial situations.Make friends from other schools, states, & countries!
Is it scary? Is it hard? No and no! You usually have a small audience (8 people or so) of the other students and a judge who gives you written feedback, unless you make it to finals or major tournaments. It requires effort (practice, research, meeting with coaches) and time (tournaments are usually on Saturdays for most of the day -- some are full weekened away trips) but it's all worth it... and we'll help you so you're sure you're ready! |
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