Kathryn Shanks

Along with my husband, Bob, I began homeschooling in 1988, and by the grace of God, educated our four children through high school, graduating our youngest in 2006. Even though my own children are now educated adults and parents themselves, I continue to support homeschooling families in a variety of ways, including offering various classes at UA. I have served as a tutor, and in leadership roles with several homeschool support organizations & academic co-ops. In 2001, I founded and taught in a number of local speech & debate clubs, providing homeschooled students with opportunities to learn speaking skills and to compete in regional and national tournaments. I currently serve as Executive Director of Verity Speech & Debate Club in Midlothian.

Public Forum Debate

GRADE LEVEL: 6th -8th

Day/Time: Monday - Period: 2B-3 (begins at 10:30 AM; 90-minute class)

Course Description: PFD-68

Public Forum debaters prepare cases to both advocate and reject a pre-selected proposition--a statement or assertion that expresses judgment or opinion. The debater's goal is to engage an opposing team in a clash of ideas, persuasively communicated to an ordinary citizen judge. Debate teams prepare to debate both the PRO and the CON sides of an issue.

Public Forum Debaters learn to:

• Speak clearly and winsomely.

• Present a clash of ideas while remaining courteous and respectful.

• Use sound logic, reasoning, and analysis.

• Research for credible, published support where necessary.

• Use 4-point rebuttal strategies to counter the arguments made by their opponents.

NOTE: Students are encouraged to compete in the homeschool speech & debate tournament held in Richmond each spring. Parents may arrange for individualized coaching with Mrs. Shanks for an additional fee.

Supply fee: $20.00 (check written to Kathryn Shanks at first class)

Minimum: 5 students

Tuition: Annual tuition $558 (paid in 9 monthly installments of $62).

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