Gulf Breeze High School Debate
Mrs. Messer/ Room 404
MesserK@santarosa.k12.fl.us
*850-512-6663
*For Debate members only! This is my cell phone number, and you may text me after hours
or on weekends in emergency situations, and during debate trips. Please talk to me in class
for non-emergency issues. Please do not share my number with students not on the debate
team.
Course Description: This course will examine the basic principles of forensics. More specifically, we will
study the art of argumentation and formal debate. Students will learn to enhance their public speaking
skills and self-confidence, as well as improve their research and writing abilities. Additionally, this
course encourages analytical and higher-order thinking skills, which will aid students both in college and
the work force. Lastly, this class engages students in relevant current events, making them more
effective and educated citizens.
Expectations: Debate is not a club, it is a team; therefore, every player is expected to practice and
participate! Speech and debate are not activities that many students are
“just naturally good at.” In fact, public speaking is the number one fear in the United States!
Understand that the most effective debaters practice a lot! They are constantly looking for ways to
better understand current events and develop logical arguments for their claims. If you plan to
compete, you must be committed to improving your skills. In short, this class is not going to be an “easy
A!”
Students and parents must also participate in various fundraising initiatives.
Outline of Course: This course requires a large amount of independent study. Once assigned to an
event, students will be responsible for working on their cases and speeches in class and with their
event mentors, and researching topics in the library or computer labs. Therefore, you must be
responsible and manage your time wisely! If you are having difficulty, you need to let me know as
soon as possible. Please do not wait until the night before a tournament to tell me you need help!
The following curriculum topics will be covered throughout the semester. We will implement these
topics by brainstorming, researching, and practicing in class. Progress checks will be done every Friday
for a grade. Individual weekly goals will depend on your event, and your level of experience.
1.
2.
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4.
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6.
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8.
9.
Intro to Debate
Topics
Speaking
Flowing
Research
Evidence & Writing Briefs
Argumentation
Case Debate
Selecting Appropriate Literary Pieces for IE Events
Mandatory Meetings: There will be a mandatory parent meeting during the second week of school.
The time and date will be announced shortly. It is extremely important that you and your parents
attend this meeting if you plan to compete in the various tournaments throughout the year. There is a
significant financial cost associated with attending some of these events, and we will go over ways to
minimize these costs at the meeting. We will also meet for extra practice the week before major
tournaments. You are expected to attend these practices with your event captains.
Materials:
Students will need a binder, and a pocket folder with brads. Additionally, students must have a flash
drive and bring it to class every day!
Student Contract for Debate
I have read, and fully understand Mrs. Messer’s syllabus for Debate. I understand that as a
member of the Debate team, I have a responsibility to practice, participate, and support my
teammates during class and competitions. I also understand that if I do not adequately
prepare, practice, and assist with fundraising activities, I may not be eligible to compete.
____________________________________
Student Signature
As a parent/guardian, I understand Mrs. Messer’s syllabus for Debate. I will encourage my child
to meet the expectations of the GBHS Debate Team.
___________________________________
Parent/Guardian Signature
Please return this signed form to Mrs. Messer by Friday, August 21st.
The returned/completed form will count as an assignment grade!