Debating for Change: The UN Sustainable Development Goals
SAT Score Range
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6 sessions
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About
Dive into the most pressing global challenges of our time through the power of debate! This dynamic course empowers students to become effective advocates for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), exploring critical issues from climate action and poverty to sustainable cities and gender equality.
Each session will focus on a new SDG-related topic, challenging students to research diverse perspectives, construct logical arguments, and present compelling cases. We will utilize a collaborative, team-based debate format (two teams of five students each) that ensures active participation and fosters teamwork.
What You'll Learn & Develop:
Deep Understanding of SDGs: Gain in-depth knowledge of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals and their real-world complexities.
Critical Research Skills: Learn to identify credible sources, gather compelling evidence, and analyze complex information.
Logical Argumentation: Master the art of building structured, persuasive arguments and identifying flaws in opposing viewpoints.
Effective Communication: Enhance your public speaking, clarity, and articulation skills through regular debate practice.
Collaborative Teamwork: Work effectively in a team, strategizing and synthesizing arguments to achieve a common goal.
Global Awareness & Advocacy: Develop a stronger voice to advocate for positive change in your community and on the global stage
Each week, students will receive a "Debate Briefing Document" outlining the upcoming SDG topic, resolution, and key research areas. During our live sessions, teams will finalize their arguments, engage in structured debates, and receive constructive feedback to continually refine their skills.
Join us to sharpen your mind, find your voice, and contribute to a more sustainable future!
Target Audience: Students (ages 12-18)
✋ ATTENDANCE POLICY
Key Expectations:
Preparation is Mandatory: All students are expected to complete the weekly research and preparation based on the "Debate Briefing Document," whether they are scheduled to speak in a debate or to serve as a judge/active observer for that session.
Regular Attendance is Highly Encouraged: While we understand that occasional absences may occur, regular attendance is crucial for building your skills and contributing to your team.
Communication is Key for Absences:
If you anticipate missing a session, you must inform your teammates and the instructor at least 24 hours in advance whenever possible.
If an unforeseen absence occurs (e.g., sudden illness), please notify your team and instructor as soon as you are able to do so.
SESSION 1
5
Dec
SESSION 1
Speech and Debate
Speech and Debate
Fri 11:00 PM - Sat, 12:00 AM UTCDec 5, 11:00 PM - Dec 6, 12:00 AM UTC
Dec 6: Session 1 - Introduction to Speech & Debate (60 min)
Topic: Foundations of Argumentation & Public Speaking
Description: "Welcome to our Speech and Debate series! In this introductory session, we'll get to know each other and lay the groundwork for effective communication. We'll cover the fundamental components of a strong argument, introduce the basic structure of debate, and discuss essential public speaking tips to help you build confidence and deliver your message clearly and persuasively. We'll outline how we'll tackle exciting new debate topics in each upcoming session!"
This session focuses on teaching the basics, so no full debate yet.
SESSION 2
12
Dec
SESSION 2
Speech and Debate
Speech and Debate
Fri 11:00 PM - Sat, 12:30 AM UTCDec 12, 11:00 PM - Dec 13, 12:30 AM UTC
Dec 13: Session 2 - Building a Strong Case: Research & Structure (90 min)
Topic (for Debate): Should social media companies be held responsible for the mental health impacts on their users?
Description: "Moving beyond the basics, this session dives into the critical skills of research and case construction. Students will learn how to find credible evidence and build a cohesive, well-supported argument as they prepare to debate: 'Should social media companies be held responsible for the mental health impacts on their users?' We'll explore core debate structures and common logical fallacies, applying these directly to this pressing and relevant topic."
30 minutes of learning and 1 hour of debate.
SESSION 3
23
Dec
SESSION 3
Speech and Debate
Speech and Debate
Tue 11:00 PM - Wed, 12:30 AM UTCDec 23, 11:00 PM - Dec 24, 12:30 AM UTC
Dec 24: Session 3 - Art of Delivery: Voice, Body & Persuasion (90 min)
Topic (for Debate): Should all schools implement a mandatory 'Digital Citizenship' curriculum?
Description: "Your message is only as powerful as its delivery! This session focuses on refining your public speaking skills while preparing for our next debate: 'Should all schools implement a mandatory 'Digital Citizenship' curriculum?' We'll practice vocal variety, body language, and effective eye contact, alongside basic rhetorical techniques, to deliver persuasive arguments about technology education and student well-being during our debate."
30 minutes of learning and 1 hour of debate.
SESSION 4
28
Dec
SESSION 4
Speech and Debate
Speech and Debate
Sun 11:00 PM - Mon, 12:30 AM UTCDec 28, 11:00 PM - Dec 29, 12:30 AM UTC
Dec 29: Session 4 - Responsive Debating: Rebuttal & Refutation (90 min)
Topic (for Debate): Should humanity prioritize space exploration over addressing environmental issues on Earth?
Description: "Debate isn't just about presenting your own case; it's about responding to your opponent's! This crucial session teaches you the art of effective rebuttal and refutation. We will immediately apply these strategies to a debate on the thought-provoking topic: 'Should humanity prioritize space exploration over addressing environmental issues on Earth?' Learn active listening, identifying weaknesses, and structuring clear counter-arguments on resource allocation and long-term priorities."
30 minutes of learning and 1 hour of debate.
SESSION 5
3
Jan
SESSION 5
Speech and Debate
Speech and Debate
Sat 11:00 PM - Sun, 12:30 AM UTCJan 3, 11:00 PM - Jan 4, 12:30 AM UTC
Jan 4: Session 5 - Advanced Strategies: Framing & Impact (90 min)
Topic (for Debate): Should individuals be legally required to recycle and compost all eligible waste?
Description: "Take your debate skills to the next level! This session explores advanced strategies like 'framing' the debate (shaping how the judge views the core issues) and emphasizing the 'impact' of your arguments. We'll apply these to a debate on the practical and impactful topic: 'Should individuals be legally required to recycle and compost all eligible waste?' We'll delve into warrants and impact calculus to show why individual responsibility and environmental policy matter in our debate."
30 minutes of learning and 1 hour of debate.
SESSION 6
10
Jan
SESSION 6
Speech and Debate
Speech and Debate
Sat 11:00 PM - Sun, 12:30 AM UTCJan 10, 11:00 PM - Jan 11, 12:30 AM UTC
Jan 11: Session 6 - Mock Debate & Feedback (90 min)
Topic (for Debate): Should artificial intelligence (AI) tools like ChatGPT be integrated as a standard learning resource in high school classrooms?
Description: "It's time to put all your learned skills into practice! This final session will feature a structured mock debate where participants can apply their argumentation, research, delivery, and rebuttal techniques in a simulated environment on the highly relevant and exciting topic: 'Should artificial intelligence (AI) tools like ChatGPT be integrated as a standard learning resource in high school classrooms?' We'll conclude with constructive feedback and a Q&A to consolidate learning and prepare you for future debate success."