The Rules of Debate: Building Student Confidence

Learning the rules of debate helps kids and teens organize their thoughts, speak with purpose, and develop genuine confidence. At Stand Up and Speak, debate is part of our Competitive Program, and every spring, students can take the stage in the iCan Debate Contest.

What is Debate?

Debate is more than just arguing. It’s a respectful way to share ideas, support opinions with evidence, and listen carefully to other perspectives.

When taught in the right environment, debate becomes a fun and rewarding way for students to grow their public speaking skills and their confidence.

A confident student engages in a respectful debate, eloquently presenting their argument from the podium.

The Basic Rules of Debate We Teach

We start with a simple structure that helps students stay focused and calm while speaking. Students learn how to:

• Open with a clear statement

• Back up their points with facts and examples

• Respond to the opposing side

• End with a strong closing

  
  

We teach a few different formats including one-on-one debates, team policy, and parliamentary style, depending on the student’s age and level.

It’s Not About Being the Loudest

One of the biggest misconceptions about debate is that you need to be aggressive or talk the most to win. That’s not true.

At Stand Up and Speak, we show students how to speak with clarity, not volume. They learn how to challenge ideas respectfully and listen closely before responding.

That’s how real communication, and confidence, starts to grow.

Practice Builds Public Speaking Confidence

Like any skill, debating takes practice. In our Competitive Public Speaking Program, students get regular opportunities to practice in small groups and mock debates.

Every time they speak, they get better. Even shy students begin to enjoy the challenge and feel more comfortable using their voice.

The iCan Debate Contest: a Chance to Shine

Each spring, students can participate in our iCan Debate Contest, proudly sponsored by iCan Immigration. This exciting event gives them a chance to take everything they’ve learned and use it on stage, in front of an audience.

They prepare their arguments, practice with coaches, and deliver their case with confidence. It’s one of the most inspiring moments of the year, and many students walk away feeling proud of what they’ve accomplished.

Debate encourages teamwork, critical thinking, and respectful conversation among students.

Ready to Help Your Child Find Their Voice?

If your child is curious about debate or wants to improve their public speaking skills, we’d love to welcome them to our Competitive Program.

And if they’re ready for a challenge, the iCan Debate Contest is the perfect place to shine.

At Stand Up and Speak, we don’t just teach the rules of debate; we help kids and teens find their voice and speak with confidence.

Many students begin their journey by joining our public speaking classes near me, where they develop the skills and confidence needed to excel in debate.