SUMMER 2022 SCHEDULE (BY LOCATION):
Online:
Elementary School
Online |9am-12pm| June 6th to June 10th| Foundations of Public Speaking
Online |9am-12pm| June 13th to June 17th| Elementary Speech & Debate
Online |9am-12pm| June 20th to June 24th| Advanced Elementary Debate
Online |9am-12pm| June 27th to July 1st| Congressional Debate
Online |9am-12pm| June 27th to July 1st| Practice Rounds & Tournament Camp
Online |9am-12pm| July 11th to July 16th| Debate Games and Fun Activities
Online |9am-12pm| July 18th to July 22nd| Spontaneous Debate
Online |9am-12pm| July 18th to July 22nd| Advanced Elementary Debate
Online |9am-12pm| July 25th to July 29th| Speech Events
Online |9am-12pm| July 25th to July 29th| Practice Rounds & Tournament Camp
Online |9am-12pm| August 1st to August 5th| Foundations of Public Speaking
Online |9am-12pm| August 8th to August 12th| Elementary Speech & Debate
Middle School
Online |1pm-4pm| June 6th to June 10th| Foundations of Public Speaking
Online |1pm-4pm| June 13th to June 17th| Beginner Speech and Debate
Online |1pm-4pm| June 13th to June 17th|Circuit Debate
Online |1pm-4pm| June 20th to June 24th|Beginning Debate Writing
Online |1pm-4pm| June 20th to June 24th| Advanced Debate
Online |1pm-4pm| June 27th to July 1st| Congressional Debate
Online |1pm-4pm| June 27th to July 1st| Practice Rounds & Tournament Camp
Online |1pm-4pm| July 11th to July 16th| Advanced Debate Writing
Online |1pm-4pm| July 11th to July 16th| Beginner Speech and Debate
Online |1pm-4pm| July 18th to July 22nd| Lincoln Douglas Debate
Online |1pm-4pm| July 18th to July 22nd| Speech Events
Online |1pm-4pm| July 25th to July 29th| Practice Rounds & Tournament Camp
Online |1pm-4pm| July 25th to July 29th| Circuit Debate
Online |1pm-4pm| August 1st to August 5th| Foundations of Public Speaking
Online |1pm-4pm| August 8th to August 12th| Advanced Debate Writing
Online |1pm-4pm| August 8th to August 12th| New LD Topic Jumpstart Session (Online Only)
Online |1pm-4pm| August 15th to August 19th| New LD Topic Jumpstart Session (Online Only)
High School
Online |1pm-4pm| June 6th to June 10th| Foundations of Public Speaking
Online |1pm-4pm| June 13th to June 17th| Beginner Speech and Debate
Online |1pm-4pm| June 13th to June 17th|Circuit Debate
Online |1pm-4pm| June 20th to June 24th| Advanced Debate
Online |1pm-4pm| June 27th to July 1st| Congressional Debate
Online |1pm-4pm| June 27th to July 1st| Practice Rounds & Tournament Camp
Online |1pm-4pm| July 11th to July 16th| Beginner Speech and Debate
Online |1pm-4pm| July 11th to July 16th| Advanced Debate Writing
Online |1pm-4pm| July 18th to July 22nd| Lincoln Douglas Debate
Online |1pm-4pm| July 18th to July 22nd| Speech Events
Online |1pm-4pm| July 25th to July 29th| Practice Rounds & Tournament Camp
Online |1pm-4pm| July 25th to July 29th| Circuit Debate
Online |1pm-4pm| August 1st to August 5th| Foundations of Public Speaking
Online |1pm-4pm| August 8th to August 12th| Advanced Debate Writing
Online |1pm-4pm| August 8th to August 12th| New LD Topic Jumpstart Session (Online Only)
Online |1pm-4pm| August 15th to August 19th| New LD Topic Jumpstart Session (Online Only)
Cupertino / Saratoga:
Elementary School
Cupertino |9am-12pm| June 6th to June 10th| Foundations of Public Speaking
Cupertino |9am-12pm| June 13th to June 17th| Elementary Speech & Debate
Cupertino |9am-12pm| June 20th to June 24th| Advanced Elementary Debate
Cupertino |9am-12pm| June 27th to July 1st| Congressional Debate
Cupertino |9am-12pm| July 11th to July 16th| Debate Games and Fun Activities
Cupertino |9am-12pm| July 18th to July 22nd| Spontaneous Debate
Cupertino |9am-12pm| July 25th to July 29th| Speech Events
Cupertino |9am-12pm| August 1st to August 5th| Foundations of Public Speaking
Cupertino |9am-12pm| August 8th to August 12th| Intro to Speech and Debate
Middle School
Cupertino |1pm-4pm| June 6th to June 10th| Beginner Speech and Debate
Cupertino |1pm-4pm| June 13th to June 17th| Congressional Debate
Cupertino |1pm-4pm| June 20th to June 24th| Competitive Debate
Cupertino |1pm-4pm| June 27th to July 1st| Speech Events
Cupertino |1pm-4pm| July 18th to July 22nd| Foundations of Public Speaking
Cupertino |1pm-4pm| July 25th to July 29th| Beginner Speech and Debate
Cupertino |1pm-4pm| August 1st to August 5th| Speech Events
Cupertino |9am-12pm| August 8th to August 12th| Competitive Debate
High School
Cupertino |9am-12pm| July 11th to July 16th| High School Speech and Debate
San Francisco:
Elementary School
San Francisco |9am-12pm| June 20th to June 24th| Foundations of Public Speaking
San Francisco |9am-12pm| June 27th to July 1st| Elementary Speech and Debate
San Francisco |9am-12pm| July 11th to July 16th| Advanced Elementary Debate
San Francisco |9am-12pm| July 18th to July 22nd| Speech Events
San Francisco |9am-12pm| July 25th to July 29th| Practice Rounds & Tournament
Middle School
San Francisco |1pm-4pm| June 20th to June 24th| Beginner Speech and Debate
San Francisco |1pm-4pm| June 27th to July 1st| Competitive Debate
San Francisco |1pm-4pm| July 11th to July 16th| Speech Events
San Francisco |1pm-4pm| July 18th to July 22nd| Foundations of Public Speaking
San Francisco |1pm-4pm| July 25th to July 29th| Practice Rounds & Tournament
San Mateo:
Elementary School
San Mateo |9am-12pm| June 13th to June 17th| Foundations of Public Speaking
San Mateo |9am-12pm| July 11th to July 16th| Intro to Speech and Debate
San Mateo |9am-12pm| July 25th to July 29th| Advanced Elementary Debate
San Mateo |9am-12pm| August 1st to August 5th| The Art of Speechmaking
San Mateo |9am-12pm| August 8th to August 12th| Intro to Speech and Debate
Middle School
San Mateo |1pm-4pm| June 13th to June 17th| Foundations of Public Speaking
San Mateo |1pm-4pm| July 11th to July 16th| Beginner Speech and Debate
San Mateo |1pm-4pm| July 25th to July 29th| Competitive Debate
San Mateo |1pm-4pm| August 1st to August 5th| Speech Events
San Mateo |1pm-4pm| August 8th to August 12th| Congressional Debate
High School
San Mateo |1pm-4pm| July 11th to July 16th| High School Speech and Debate
San Mateo |1pm-4pm| August 1st to August 5th| High School Speech and Debate
SUMMER 2022 SESSION CAMP DESCRIPTIONS:
ELEMENTARY CAMPS (3RD, 4TH, 5TH):
Public Speaking: General
Strong public speaking skills are foundational in academic debate and beyond. Our Public Speaking Camp is designed to empower students to thrive in the dynamic ecosystem of real-world public speaking, whether they’re preparing for Speech & Debate competition, classroom presentations, interviews, or running for student office. We will learn and practice confidence-building, verbal and nonverbal communication, posture, eye contact, audience adaptation, energy, persuasion, speech structure, and more as we help students realize their public speaking potential
Elementary Speech and Debate 101
The “Elementary Debate 101” camp is the perfect entry point for any elementary school student looking to explore the fascinating world of speech and debate. Students will gain exposure to all the major pillars of debate education: public speaking, argumentation, logic, critical reasoning, oratory, prepared and spontaneous speeches, and persuasive writing. In this class, we aspire to get kids excited and comfortable with public speaking, develop familiarity with organized argumentation, and have a lot of fun learning about all kinds of interesting kid friendly topics.
Competitive Elementary Debate (Advanced Elementary Debate)
The Competitive Debate Camp is for students who want to win tournaments! Athens isn’t just a learning academy; We are also an award-winning competitive team! This camp will prepare students for tournaments and help them reach new levels of competitive success. Our experienced coaches will cover everything that goes into Speech and Debate competition: navigating the tournament ecosystem, competitive strategy, teamwork, judge adaptation, preparation, practice, and more!
Elementary Congressional Debate
Athens’ Elementary Congressional Debate Camp will teach students what it’s like to be effective real-world policymakers. Congressional Debate is a fantastic way for students to learn elements of American civics, democracy, rules of order, the (age-appropriate) issues facing our society, and the legislative process that goes into making the world a better place. In Congress Camp, students will draft, amend, debate, and ultimately vote on mock Senate bills while developing their skills of writing, persuasion, cross-examination, critical thinking, and advocacy.
Elementary Play Camp - Games and Activities
Mr. Rogers said, “Play gives children a chance to practice what they are learning.” Athens students learn so much, there’s no better way to reinforce that learning than through enriching games and activities! At Athens Play Camp, students will learn and play several games designed to reinforce their skills and knowledge: Verbal Static Insanity, Debate Jeopardy, Fortunately-Unfortunately, Prove It!, The Hot Air Balloon Debate, Popcorn Storytelling, and many more!
Just Rounds (Online)
For students who love the thrill of competition, Athens is hosting an entire camp of practice rounds! Practice is one of the most important ways to grow as a speaker and debater. In the Just Rounds camp, students will debate numerous practice rounds with full, detailed, individualized instructor feedback. In this camp, participation and practice are paramount!
Tournament Camp (Online)
Get ready to compete! At Athens Tournament Camp, students will learn about - and compete in - a full Athens tournament (SPAR and Impromptu). This is a great camp for any students who are intrigued about the idea of competition but intimidated or confused about where to begin. And for students who already have tournament experience, it’s another fantastic opportunity to compete!
Spontaneous Speech (Impromptu)
Of all that students learn in the world of speech and debate, few skills are more portable and broadly applicable than the ability to speak effectively with limited preparation. At Spontaneous Speech Camp, students will learn to speak with purpose, clarity, and confidence - at a moment’s notice. Impromptu Speaking is one of Athens’ most popular competitive events, developing multiple skills: time management, mental organization, theme identification, thesis-building, speech structure, preparation, poise, and focus.
SPAR Debate
The Elementary SPAR Debate Camp is the place to be for students who love to debate! One of Athens’ favorite events, Spontaneous Argumentation is a limited preparation debate event that develops a number of skills in students: critical thinking, persuasion, mental organization, cross-examination, logic, issue-spotting, crystallization, and more. Easy to learn but difficult to master, SPAR provides the perfect annex for foundational Speech and Debate concepts. Students will learn the ins and outs of SPAR debate, with tons of engagement and practice.
Prepared Speeches
At Athens, we believe it’s never too early to grow as a critical thinker, writer, and speaker. Our Prepared Speeches Camp is designed to give elementary students a head start in all three areas. From persuasive writing and speaking to creative interpretations of literature, students will learn and practice the process of delivering powerful speeches, from conception to composition through performance, culminating in the delivery of their own original prepared speech!
MIDDLE SCHOOL CAMPS (6TH, 7TH, 8TH):
Beginner Speech and Debate
Beginner Speech and Debate Camp is the perfect entry point for any Middle School student looking to explore the fascinating world of speech and debate. Students will gain exposure to all the major pillars of debate education: public speaking, argumentation, logic, critical reasoning, oratory, prepared and spontaneous speeches, and persuasive writing. In this class, we aspire to get kids excited and comfortable with public speaking, develop familiarity with organized argumentation, and have a lot of fun building a wealth of knowledge.
Public Speaking
Strong public speaking skills are foundational in academic debate and beyond. Our Middle School Public Speaking Camp is designed to empower students to thrive in the dynamic ecosystem of real-world public speaking, whether they’re preparing for Speech & Debate competition, crafting memorable classroom presentations, or running for student office. We will learn and practice confidence-building, verbal and nonverbal communication fundamentals, posture, eye contact, audience adaptation, energy, persuasion, speech structure, and more as we help students realize their public speaking potential.
Competitive Debate
The Middle School Competitive Debate Camp is for students who want to win tournaments! Athens isn’t just a learning academy; We are also an award-winning competitive team! This camp will prepare students for tournaments and help them reach new levels of competitive success. Our experienced coaches will cover everything that goes into Speech and Debate competition: navigating the tournament ecosystem, competitive strategy, teamwork, judge adaptation, preparation, practice, and more!
Speech Events
Our Middle School Speech Camp will offer a synthesis of both prepared and limited-preparation speaking. With limited-prep speaking, students will learn to speak with purpose, clarity, and confidence - at a moment’s notice. Impromptu Speaking develops multiple skills: time management, mental organization, theme identification, thesis-building, speech structure, preparation, poise, and focus. The perfect compliment to limited-prep speaking, prepared speech training develops critical thinking, writing, and polish. From persuasive writing and speaking to creative interpretations of literature, students will learn and practice the process of delivering powerful speeches, from conception to composition through performance, culminating in the delivery of their own original prepared speech!
Congressional Debate
Athens Middle School Congressional Debate Camp will teach students what it’s like to be effective real-world policymakers. Congressional Debate is a fantastic way for students to learn elements of American civics, democracy, rules of order, the (age-appropriate) issues facing our society, and the legislative process that goes into making the world a better place. In Congress Camp, students will draft, amend, debate, and ultimately vote on mock Senate bills while developing their skills of writing, persuasion, cross-examination, critical thinking, and advocacy.
LD Camp (Online Only)
In LD Camp, students will learn everything Lincoln-Douglas Debate! This camp is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of all things related to Athens’ most popular debate event! Whether your student has zero experience with LD or is looking to fortify their existing knowledge and skills, LD camp will cover all the elements of LD success, from case construction, to research, to tournament procedure, to cross-examination strategy, to rebuttal speeches, value, criterion, framework, and beyond! All students will leave this camp ready to compete in LD.
Just Rounds (Online)
For students who love the thrill of competition, Athens is hosting an entire camp of instructional practice rounds! Practice is one of the most important ways to grow as a speaker and debater. In the Just Rounds Camp, students will debate numerous practice rounds with full, detailed, individualized instructor feedback. In this camp, individual practice and competitive development are paramount!
Tournament Camp (Online)
Get ready to compete! At Tournament Camp, students will learn about - and compete in - a full Athens Lincoln Douglas tournament. This is a great camp for any students who are intrigued about the idea of competition but intimidated or confused about where to begin. And for students who already have tournament experience, it’s another fantastic opportunity to compete!
New LD Topic Jumpstart Prep Session (Online Only)
Our New Topic Jumpstart Prep Session is all about getting a head-start on the Fall competitive season! In this camp, students will research, write, perfect, and practice with their own debate cases and research files on the first Fall LD topic. By the end of this camp, our students will be experts on the topic before many other teams even begin to research.
Beginning Debate Writing (Online Only)
The Debate Writing Camp is designed to take our student’s case-construction skills to the next level. Whereas beginning debaters are typically given previously researched evidence by their coaches to use in their debate cases, this camp will empower students to research a topic, find, evaluate, format, and incorporate evidence, and write their own debate cases - from scratch. Developing this skill early provides students an incredible avenue for growth as writers - both inside and outside debate.
Advanced Debate Writing (Online Only)
For debaters who are already comfortable constructing their own cases, the Advanced Debate Writing Camp will take your case writing to the next level. We will explore advanced research and card-cutting, advanced alternative case formats, block-writing, and concepts that go far beyond case-writing basics. Advanced Debate Writing is suitable for students who have experience cutting cards and writing their own cases from scratch.
Circuit Debate (Online Only)
In Circuit Debate Camp, students will compare and contrast Traditional LD Debate with Circuit LD, and learn to seamlessly navigate between them. If your student is comfortable in Trad but not in Circuit - or vice versa - this camp is just what they need to learn to adapt and thrive in any debate situation, whether it be in front of a lay audience or a panel of expert debate coaches. Circuit Camp is suitable for Open-level and Advanced debaters only.
Advanced Debate (Online Only)
Designed for those students who have mastered the fundamentals of debate and tasted tournament success, our Advanced Debate camp will challenge and catalyze growth in even the most experienced debater. If your student feels they have reached a plateau, this is the perfect camp for them. Our advanced instructors will expose students to all-new college-level debate concepts, and help each individual student to identify and advance in key growth areas - to reach new heights of competitive success.
HIGH SCHOOL CAMPS (9TH - 12TH):
Beginner Speech and Debate
Beginner Speech and Debate Camp is the perfect entry point for any High School student looking to explore the fascinating world of speech and debate. In this camp, students will gain exposure to the of debate education: public speaking, argumentation, logic, critical reasoning, oratory, prepared and spontaneous speeches, persuasive writing, and more. In this class, we aspire to get kids excited and comfortable with public speaking, develop familiarity with organized argumentation, and have a lot of fun building a wealth of deployable knowledge and skills.
Public Speaking
Strong public speaking skills are foundational in academic debate and beyond. Our High School Public Speaking Camp is designed to empower students to thrive in the dynamic ecosystem of real-world public speaking, whether they’re preparing for Speech & Debate competition, crafting memorable classroom presentations, or leading their class in student office. We will practice confidence-building, verbal and nonverbal communication fundamentals, posture, eye contact, audience adaptation, energy, the foundations of persuasion, speech structure, and more as we help students reach new heights in their public speaking potential.
Competitive Debate
The High School Competitive Debate Camp is for students who want to win tournaments! Athens isn’t just a learning academy; We are also an award-winning competitive team! This camp will prepare students for tournaments and help them reach new levels of competitive success. Our experienced coaches will cover everything that goes into Speech and Debate competition: navigating the tournament ecosystem, competitive strategy, teamwork, judge adaptation, preparation, practice, and more!
Speech Events
Our High School Speech Camp will offer a synthesis of both prepared and limited-preparation speaking. With limited-prep speaking, students will learn to speak with purpose, clarity, and confidence - at a moment’s notice. Impromptu Speaking develops multiple skills: time management, mental organization, theme identification, thesis-building, speech structure, preparation, poise, and focus. The perfect compliment to limited-prep speaking, prepared speech training develops critical thinking, writing, and polish. From platform writing and speaking to creative interpretations of literature, students will learn and practice the process of delivering powerful speeches, from conception to composition through performance, culminating in the delivery of their own original prepared speech!
Congressional Debate
Athens High School Congressional Debate Camp will teach students what it’s like to be effective real-world policymakers. Congressional Debate is a fantastic way for students to learn elements of American civics, democracy, rules of order, the (age-appropriate) issues facing our society, and the legislative process that goes into making the world a better place. In Congress Camp, students will draft, amend, debate, and ultimately vote on mock Senate bills while developing their skills of writing, persuasion, cross-examination, critical thinking, and advocacy.
LD (Online Only)
In LD Camp, students will learn everything Lincoln-Douglas Debate! This camp is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of all things related to Athens’ most popular debate event! Whether your student has zero experience with LD or is looking to fortify their existing knowledge and skills, LD camp will cover all the elements of LD success, from case construction, to research, to tournament procedure, to cross-examination strategy, to rebuttal speeches, value, criterion, framework, and beyond! All students will leave this camp ready to compete in LD.
Just Rounds (Online)
For students who love the thrill of competition, Athens is hosting an entire camp of instructional practice rounds! Practice is one of the most important ways to grow as a speaker and debater. In the Just Rounds Camp, students will debate numerous practice rounds with full, detailed, individualized instructor feedback. In this camp, individual practice and competitive development are paramount!
Tournament Camp (Online)
Get ready to compete! At Tournament Camp, students will learn about - and compete in - a full Athens Lincoln Douglas tournament. This is a great camp for any students who are intrigued about the idea of competition but intimidated or confused about where to begin. And for students who already have tournament experience, it’s another fantastic opportunity to compete!
New LD Topic Jumpstart Prep Session (Online Only)
Our New Topic Jumpstart Prep Session is all about getting a head-start on the Fall competitive season! In this camp, students will research, write, perfect, and practice with their own debate cases and research files on the first Fall LD topic. By the end of this camp, our students will be experts on the topic before many other teams even begin to research.
Beginning Debate Writing (Online Only)
The Debate Writing Camp is designed to take our student’s case-construction skills to the next level. Whereas beginning debaters are typically given previously researched evidence by their coaches to use in their debate cases, this camp will empower students to research a topic, find, evaluate, format, and incorporate evidence, and write their own debate cases - from scratch. Developing this skill early provides students an incredible avenue for growth as writers - both inside and outside debate.
Advanced Debate Writing (Online Only)
For debaters who are already comfortable constructing their own cases, the Advanced Debate Writing Camp will take your case writing to the next level. We will explore advanced research and card-cutting, advanced alternative case formats, block-writing, and concepts that go far beyond case-writing basics. Advanced Debate Writing is suitable for students who have experience cutting cards and writing their own cases from scratch.
Circuit Debate (Online Only)
In Circuit Debate Camp, students will compare and contrast Traditional LD Debate with Circuit LD, and learn to seamlessly navigate between them. If your student is comfortable in Trad but not in Circuit - or vice versa - this camp is just what they need to learn to adapt and thrive in any debate situation, whether it be in front of a lay audience or a panel of expert debate coaches. Circuit Camp is suitable for Open-level and Advanced debaters only.
Advanced Debate (Online Only)
Designed for those students who have mastered the fundamentals of debate and tasted tournament success, our Advanced Debate camp will challenge and catalyze growth in even the most experienced debater. If your student feels they have reached a plateau, this is the perfect camp for them. Our advanced instructors will expose students to all-new college-level debate concepts, and help each individual student to identify and advance in key growth areas - to reach new heights of competitive success.
Online:
Elementary School
Online |9am-12pm| June 6th to June 10th| Foundations of Public Speaking
Online |9am-12pm| June 13th to June 17th| Elementary Speech & Debate
Online |9am-12pm| June 20th to June 24th| Advanced Elementary Debate
Online |9am-12pm| June 27th to July 1st| Congressional Debate
Online |9am-12pm| June 27th to July 1st| Practice Rounds & Tournament Camp
Online |9am-12pm| July 11th to July 16th| Debate Games and Fun Activities
Online |9am-12pm| July 18th to July 22nd| Spontaneous Debate
Online |9am-12pm| July 18th to July 22nd| Advanced Elementary Debate
Online |9am-12pm| July 25th to July 29th| Speech Events
Online |9am-12pm| July 25th to July 29th| Practice Rounds & Tournament Camp
Online |9am-12pm| August 1st to August 5th| Foundations of Public Speaking
Online |9am-12pm| August 8th to August 12th| Elementary Speech & Debate
Middle School
Online |1pm-4pm| June 6th to June 10th| Foundations of Public Speaking
Online |1pm-4pm| June 13th to June 17th| Beginner Speech and Debate
Online |1pm-4pm| June 13th to June 17th|Circuit Debate
Online |1pm-4pm| June 20th to June 24th|Beginning Debate Writing
Online |1pm-4pm| June 20th to June 24th| Advanced Debate
Online |1pm-4pm| June 27th to July 1st| Congressional Debate
Online |1pm-4pm| June 27th to July 1st| Practice Rounds & Tournament Camp
Online |1pm-4pm| July 11th to July 16th| Advanced Debate Writing
Online |1pm-4pm| July 11th to July 16th| Beginner Speech and Debate
Online |1pm-4pm| July 18th to July 22nd| Lincoln Douglas Debate
Online |1pm-4pm| July 18th to July 22nd| Speech Events
Online |1pm-4pm| July 25th to July 29th| Practice Rounds & Tournament Camp
Online |1pm-4pm| July 25th to July 29th| Circuit Debate
Online |1pm-4pm| August 1st to August 5th| Foundations of Public Speaking
Online |1pm-4pm| August 8th to August 12th| Advanced Debate Writing
Online |1pm-4pm| August 8th to August 12th| New LD Topic Jumpstart Session (Online Only)
Online |1pm-4pm| August 15th to August 19th| New LD Topic Jumpstart Session (Online Only)
High School
Online |1pm-4pm| June 6th to June 10th| Foundations of Public Speaking
Online |1pm-4pm| June 13th to June 17th| Beginner Speech and Debate
Online |1pm-4pm| June 13th to June 17th|Circuit Debate
Online |1pm-4pm| June 20th to June 24th| Advanced Debate
Online |1pm-4pm| June 27th to July 1st| Congressional Debate
Online |1pm-4pm| June 27th to July 1st| Practice Rounds & Tournament Camp
Online |1pm-4pm| July 11th to July 16th| Beginner Speech and Debate
Online |1pm-4pm| July 11th to July 16th| Advanced Debate Writing
Online |1pm-4pm| July 18th to July 22nd| Lincoln Douglas Debate
Online |1pm-4pm| July 18th to July 22nd| Speech Events
Online |1pm-4pm| July 25th to July 29th| Practice Rounds & Tournament Camp
Online |1pm-4pm| July 25th to July 29th| Circuit Debate
Online |1pm-4pm| August 1st to August 5th| Foundations of Public Speaking
Online |1pm-4pm| August 8th to August 12th| Advanced Debate Writing
Online |1pm-4pm| August 8th to August 12th| New LD Topic Jumpstart Session (Online Only)
Online |1pm-4pm| August 15th to August 19th| New LD Topic Jumpstart Session (Online Only)
Cupertino / Saratoga:
Elementary School
Cupertino |9am-12pm| June 6th to June 10th| Foundations of Public Speaking
Cupertino |9am-12pm| June 13th to June 17th| Elementary Speech & Debate
Cupertino |9am-12pm| June 20th to June 24th| Advanced Elementary Debate
Cupertino |9am-12pm| June 27th to July 1st| Congressional Debate
Cupertino |9am-12pm| July 11th to July 16th| Debate Games and Fun Activities
Cupertino |9am-12pm| July 18th to July 22nd| Spontaneous Debate
Cupertino |9am-12pm| July 25th to July 29th| Speech Events
Cupertino |9am-12pm| August 1st to August 5th| Foundations of Public Speaking
Cupertino |9am-12pm| August 8th to August 12th| Intro to Speech and Debate
Middle School
Cupertino |1pm-4pm| June 6th to June 10th| Beginner Speech and Debate
Cupertino |1pm-4pm| June 13th to June 17th| Congressional Debate
Cupertino |1pm-4pm| June 20th to June 24th| Competitive Debate
Cupertino |1pm-4pm| June 27th to July 1st| Speech Events
Cupertino |1pm-4pm| July 18th to July 22nd| Foundations of Public Speaking
Cupertino |1pm-4pm| July 25th to July 29th| Beginner Speech and Debate
Cupertino |1pm-4pm| August 1st to August 5th| Speech Events
Cupertino |9am-12pm| August 8th to August 12th| Competitive Debate
High School
Cupertino |9am-12pm| July 11th to July 16th| High School Speech and Debate
San Francisco:
Elementary School
San Francisco |9am-12pm| June 20th to June 24th| Foundations of Public Speaking
San Francisco |9am-12pm| June 27th to July 1st| Elementary Speech and Debate
San Francisco |9am-12pm| July 11th to July 16th| Advanced Elementary Debate
San Francisco |9am-12pm| July 18th to July 22nd| Speech Events
San Francisco |9am-12pm| July 25th to July 29th| Practice Rounds & Tournament
Middle School
San Francisco |1pm-4pm| June 20th to June 24th| Beginner Speech and Debate
San Francisco |1pm-4pm| June 27th to July 1st| Competitive Debate
San Francisco |1pm-4pm| July 11th to July 16th| Speech Events
San Francisco |1pm-4pm| July 18th to July 22nd| Foundations of Public Speaking
San Francisco |1pm-4pm| July 25th to July 29th| Practice Rounds & Tournament
San Mateo:
Elementary School
San Mateo |9am-12pm| June 13th to June 17th| Foundations of Public Speaking
San Mateo |9am-12pm| July 11th to July 16th| Intro to Speech and Debate
San Mateo |9am-12pm| July 25th to July 29th| Advanced Elementary Debate
San Mateo |9am-12pm| August 1st to August 5th| The Art of Speechmaking
San Mateo |9am-12pm| August 8th to August 12th| Intro to Speech and Debate
Middle School
San Mateo |1pm-4pm| June 13th to June 17th| Foundations of Public Speaking
San Mateo |1pm-4pm| July 11th to July 16th| Beginner Speech and Debate
San Mateo |1pm-4pm| July 25th to July 29th| Competitive Debate
San Mateo |1pm-4pm| August 1st to August 5th| Speech Events
San Mateo |1pm-4pm| August 8th to August 12th| Congressional Debate
High School
San Mateo |1pm-4pm| July 11th to July 16th| High School Speech and Debate
San Mateo |1pm-4pm| August 1st to August 5th| High School Speech and Debate
SUMMER 2022 SESSION CAMP DESCRIPTIONS:
ELEMENTARY CAMPS (3RD, 4TH, 5TH):
Public Speaking: General
Strong public speaking skills are foundational in academic debate and beyond. Our Public Speaking Camp is designed to empower students to thrive in the dynamic ecosystem of real-world public speaking, whether they’re preparing for Speech & Debate competition, classroom presentations, interviews, or running for student office. We will learn and practice confidence-building, verbal and nonverbal communication, posture, eye contact, audience adaptation, energy, persuasion, speech structure, and more as we help students realize their public speaking potential
Elementary Speech and Debate 101
The “Elementary Debate 101” camp is the perfect entry point for any elementary school student looking to explore the fascinating world of speech and debate. Students will gain exposure to all the major pillars of debate education: public speaking, argumentation, logic, critical reasoning, oratory, prepared and spontaneous speeches, and persuasive writing. In this class, we aspire to get kids excited and comfortable with public speaking, develop familiarity with organized argumentation, and have a lot of fun learning about all kinds of interesting kid friendly topics.
Competitive Elementary Debate (Advanced Elementary Debate)
The Competitive Debate Camp is for students who want to win tournaments! Athens isn’t just a learning academy; We are also an award-winning competitive team! This camp will prepare students for tournaments and help them reach new levels of competitive success. Our experienced coaches will cover everything that goes into Speech and Debate competition: navigating the tournament ecosystem, competitive strategy, teamwork, judge adaptation, preparation, practice, and more!
Elementary Congressional Debate
Athens’ Elementary Congressional Debate Camp will teach students what it’s like to be effective real-world policymakers. Congressional Debate is a fantastic way for students to learn elements of American civics, democracy, rules of order, the (age-appropriate) issues facing our society, and the legislative process that goes into making the world a better place. In Congress Camp, students will draft, amend, debate, and ultimately vote on mock Senate bills while developing their skills of writing, persuasion, cross-examination, critical thinking, and advocacy.
Elementary Play Camp - Games and Activities
Mr. Rogers said, “Play gives children a chance to practice what they are learning.” Athens students learn so much, there’s no better way to reinforce that learning than through enriching games and activities! At Athens Play Camp, students will learn and play several games designed to reinforce their skills and knowledge: Verbal Static Insanity, Debate Jeopardy, Fortunately-Unfortunately, Prove It!, The Hot Air Balloon Debate, Popcorn Storytelling, and many more!
Just Rounds (Online)
For students who love the thrill of competition, Athens is hosting an entire camp of practice rounds! Practice is one of the most important ways to grow as a speaker and debater. In the Just Rounds camp, students will debate numerous practice rounds with full, detailed, individualized instructor feedback. In this camp, participation and practice are paramount!
Tournament Camp (Online)
Get ready to compete! At Athens Tournament Camp, students will learn about - and compete in - a full Athens tournament (SPAR and Impromptu). This is a great camp for any students who are intrigued about the idea of competition but intimidated or confused about where to begin. And for students who already have tournament experience, it’s another fantastic opportunity to compete!
Spontaneous Speech (Impromptu)
Of all that students learn in the world of speech and debate, few skills are more portable and broadly applicable than the ability to speak effectively with limited preparation. At Spontaneous Speech Camp, students will learn to speak with purpose, clarity, and confidence - at a moment’s notice. Impromptu Speaking is one of Athens’ most popular competitive events, developing multiple skills: time management, mental organization, theme identification, thesis-building, speech structure, preparation, poise, and focus.
SPAR Debate
The Elementary SPAR Debate Camp is the place to be for students who love to debate! One of Athens’ favorite events, Spontaneous Argumentation is a limited preparation debate event that develops a number of skills in students: critical thinking, persuasion, mental organization, cross-examination, logic, issue-spotting, crystallization, and more. Easy to learn but difficult to master, SPAR provides the perfect annex for foundational Speech and Debate concepts. Students will learn the ins and outs of SPAR debate, with tons of engagement and practice.
Prepared Speeches
At Athens, we believe it’s never too early to grow as a critical thinker, writer, and speaker. Our Prepared Speeches Camp is designed to give elementary students a head start in all three areas. From persuasive writing and speaking to creative interpretations of literature, students will learn and practice the process of delivering powerful speeches, from conception to composition through performance, culminating in the delivery of their own original prepared speech!
MIDDLE SCHOOL CAMPS (6TH, 7TH, 8TH):
Beginner Speech and Debate
Beginner Speech and Debate Camp is the perfect entry point for any Middle School student looking to explore the fascinating world of speech and debate. Students will gain exposure to all the major pillars of debate education: public speaking, argumentation, logic, critical reasoning, oratory, prepared and spontaneous speeches, and persuasive writing. In this class, we aspire to get kids excited and comfortable with public speaking, develop familiarity with organized argumentation, and have a lot of fun building a wealth of knowledge.
Public Speaking
Strong public speaking skills are foundational in academic debate and beyond. Our Middle School Public Speaking Camp is designed to empower students to thrive in the dynamic ecosystem of real-world public speaking, whether they’re preparing for Speech & Debate competition, crafting memorable classroom presentations, or running for student office. We will learn and practice confidence-building, verbal and nonverbal communication fundamentals, posture, eye contact, audience adaptation, energy, persuasion, speech structure, and more as we help students realize their public speaking potential.
Competitive Debate
The Middle School Competitive Debate Camp is for students who want to win tournaments! Athens isn’t just a learning academy; We are also an award-winning competitive team! This camp will prepare students for tournaments and help them reach new levels of competitive success. Our experienced coaches will cover everything that goes into Speech and Debate competition: navigating the tournament ecosystem, competitive strategy, teamwork, judge adaptation, preparation, practice, and more!
Speech Events
Our Middle School Speech Camp will offer a synthesis of both prepared and limited-preparation speaking. With limited-prep speaking, students will learn to speak with purpose, clarity, and confidence - at a moment’s notice. Impromptu Speaking develops multiple skills: time management, mental organization, theme identification, thesis-building, speech structure, preparation, poise, and focus. The perfect compliment to limited-prep speaking, prepared speech training develops critical thinking, writing, and polish. From persuasive writing and speaking to creative interpretations of literature, students will learn and practice the process of delivering powerful speeches, from conception to composition through performance, culminating in the delivery of their own original prepared speech!
Congressional Debate
Athens Middle School Congressional Debate Camp will teach students what it’s like to be effective real-world policymakers. Congressional Debate is a fantastic way for students to learn elements of American civics, democracy, rules of order, the (age-appropriate) issues facing our society, and the legislative process that goes into making the world a better place. In Congress Camp, students will draft, amend, debate, and ultimately vote on mock Senate bills while developing their skills of writing, persuasion, cross-examination, critical thinking, and advocacy.
LD Camp (Online Only)
In LD Camp, students will learn everything Lincoln-Douglas Debate! This camp is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of all things related to Athens’ most popular debate event! Whether your student has zero experience with LD or is looking to fortify their existing knowledge and skills, LD camp will cover all the elements of LD success, from case construction, to research, to tournament procedure, to cross-examination strategy, to rebuttal speeches, value, criterion, framework, and beyond! All students will leave this camp ready to compete in LD.
Just Rounds (Online)
For students who love the thrill of competition, Athens is hosting an entire camp of instructional practice rounds! Practice is one of the most important ways to grow as a speaker and debater. In the Just Rounds Camp, students will debate numerous practice rounds with full, detailed, individualized instructor feedback. In this camp, individual practice and competitive development are paramount!
Tournament Camp (Online)
Get ready to compete! At Tournament Camp, students will learn about - and compete in - a full Athens Lincoln Douglas tournament. This is a great camp for any students who are intrigued about the idea of competition but intimidated or confused about where to begin. And for students who already have tournament experience, it’s another fantastic opportunity to compete!
New LD Topic Jumpstart Prep Session (Online Only)
Our New Topic Jumpstart Prep Session is all about getting a head-start on the Fall competitive season! In this camp, students will research, write, perfect, and practice with their own debate cases and research files on the first Fall LD topic. By the end of this camp, our students will be experts on the topic before many other teams even begin to research.
Beginning Debate Writing (Online Only)
The Debate Writing Camp is designed to take our student’s case-construction skills to the next level. Whereas beginning debaters are typically given previously researched evidence by their coaches to use in their debate cases, this camp will empower students to research a topic, find, evaluate, format, and incorporate evidence, and write their own debate cases - from scratch. Developing this skill early provides students an incredible avenue for growth as writers - both inside and outside debate.
Advanced Debate Writing (Online Only)
For debaters who are already comfortable constructing their own cases, the Advanced Debate Writing Camp will take your case writing to the next level. We will explore advanced research and card-cutting, advanced alternative case formats, block-writing, and concepts that go far beyond case-writing basics. Advanced Debate Writing is suitable for students who have experience cutting cards and writing their own cases from scratch.
Circuit Debate (Online Only)
In Circuit Debate Camp, students will compare and contrast Traditional LD Debate with Circuit LD, and learn to seamlessly navigate between them. If your student is comfortable in Trad but not in Circuit - or vice versa - this camp is just what they need to learn to adapt and thrive in any debate situation, whether it be in front of a lay audience or a panel of expert debate coaches. Circuit Camp is suitable for Open-level and Advanced debaters only.
Advanced Debate (Online Only)
Designed for those students who have mastered the fundamentals of debate and tasted tournament success, our Advanced Debate camp will challenge and catalyze growth in even the most experienced debater. If your student feels they have reached a plateau, this is the perfect camp for them. Our advanced instructors will expose students to all-new college-level debate concepts, and help each individual student to identify and advance in key growth areas - to reach new heights of competitive success.
HIGH SCHOOL CAMPS (9TH - 12TH):
Beginner Speech and Debate
Beginner Speech and Debate Camp is the perfect entry point for any High School student looking to explore the fascinating world of speech and debate. In this camp, students will gain exposure to the of debate education: public speaking, argumentation, logic, critical reasoning, oratory, prepared and spontaneous speeches, persuasive writing, and more. In this class, we aspire to get kids excited and comfortable with public speaking, develop familiarity with organized argumentation, and have a lot of fun building a wealth of deployable knowledge and skills.
Public Speaking
Strong public speaking skills are foundational in academic debate and beyond. Our High School Public Speaking Camp is designed to empower students to thrive in the dynamic ecosystem of real-world public speaking, whether they’re preparing for Speech & Debate competition, crafting memorable classroom presentations, or leading their class in student office. We will practice confidence-building, verbal and nonverbal communication fundamentals, posture, eye contact, audience adaptation, energy, the foundations of persuasion, speech structure, and more as we help students reach new heights in their public speaking potential.
Competitive Debate
The High School Competitive Debate Camp is for students who want to win tournaments! Athens isn’t just a learning academy; We are also an award-winning competitive team! This camp will prepare students for tournaments and help them reach new levels of competitive success. Our experienced coaches will cover everything that goes into Speech and Debate competition: navigating the tournament ecosystem, competitive strategy, teamwork, judge adaptation, preparation, practice, and more!
Speech Events
Our High School Speech Camp will offer a synthesis of both prepared and limited-preparation speaking. With limited-prep speaking, students will learn to speak with purpose, clarity, and confidence - at a moment’s notice. Impromptu Speaking develops multiple skills: time management, mental organization, theme identification, thesis-building, speech structure, preparation, poise, and focus. The perfect compliment to limited-prep speaking, prepared speech training develops critical thinking, writing, and polish. From platform writing and speaking to creative interpretations of literature, students will learn and practice the process of delivering powerful speeches, from conception to composition through performance, culminating in the delivery of their own original prepared speech!
Congressional Debate
Athens High School Congressional Debate Camp will teach students what it’s like to be effective real-world policymakers. Congressional Debate is a fantastic way for students to learn elements of American civics, democracy, rules of order, the (age-appropriate) issues facing our society, and the legislative process that goes into making the world a better place. In Congress Camp, students will draft, amend, debate, and ultimately vote on mock Senate bills while developing their skills of writing, persuasion, cross-examination, critical thinking, and advocacy.
LD (Online Only)
In LD Camp, students will learn everything Lincoln-Douglas Debate! This camp is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of all things related to Athens’ most popular debate event! Whether your student has zero experience with LD or is looking to fortify their existing knowledge and skills, LD camp will cover all the elements of LD success, from case construction, to research, to tournament procedure, to cross-examination strategy, to rebuttal speeches, value, criterion, framework, and beyond! All students will leave this camp ready to compete in LD.
Just Rounds (Online)
For students who love the thrill of competition, Athens is hosting an entire camp of instructional practice rounds! Practice is one of the most important ways to grow as a speaker and debater. In the Just Rounds Camp, students will debate numerous practice rounds with full, detailed, individualized instructor feedback. In this camp, individual practice and competitive development are paramount!
Tournament Camp (Online)
Get ready to compete! At Tournament Camp, students will learn about - and compete in - a full Athens Lincoln Douglas tournament. This is a great camp for any students who are intrigued about the idea of competition but intimidated or confused about where to begin. And for students who already have tournament experience, it’s another fantastic opportunity to compete!
New LD Topic Jumpstart Prep Session (Online Only)
Our New Topic Jumpstart Prep Session is all about getting a head-start on the Fall competitive season! In this camp, students will research, write, perfect, and practice with their own debate cases and research files on the first Fall LD topic. By the end of this camp, our students will be experts on the topic before many other teams even begin to research.
Beginning Debate Writing (Online Only)
The Debate Writing Camp is designed to take our student’s case-construction skills to the next level. Whereas beginning debaters are typically given previously researched evidence by their coaches to use in their debate cases, this camp will empower students to research a topic, find, evaluate, format, and incorporate evidence, and write their own debate cases - from scratch. Developing this skill early provides students an incredible avenue for growth as writers - both inside and outside debate.
Advanced Debate Writing (Online Only)
For debaters who are already comfortable constructing their own cases, the Advanced Debate Writing Camp will take your case writing to the next level. We will explore advanced research and card-cutting, advanced alternative case formats, block-writing, and concepts that go far beyond case-writing basics. Advanced Debate Writing is suitable for students who have experience cutting cards and writing their own cases from scratch.
Circuit Debate (Online Only)
In Circuit Debate Camp, students will compare and contrast Traditional LD Debate with Circuit LD, and learn to seamlessly navigate between them. If your student is comfortable in Trad but not in Circuit - or vice versa - this camp is just what they need to learn to adapt and thrive in any debate situation, whether it be in front of a lay audience or a panel of expert debate coaches. Circuit Camp is suitable for Open-level and Advanced debaters only.
Advanced Debate (Online Only)
Designed for those students who have mastered the fundamentals of debate and tasted tournament success, our Advanced Debate camp will challenge and catalyze growth in even the most experienced debater. If your student feels they have reached a plateau, this is the perfect camp for them. Our advanced instructors will expose students to all-new college-level debate concepts, and help each individual student to identify and advance in key growth areas - to reach new heights of competitive success.