HIGH SCHOOL CAMP
Speech & Debate Programs
Equip your teen with confidence, critical thinking, and communication skills at Richmond Debate Institute’s High School Camp. Led by champion instructors and PhD lecturers, this immersive week combines engaging lessons, practice debates, and skill-building activities. Students explore current topics, prepare for a professionally judged tournament, and celebrate their growth at a formal awards ceremony. Held at VCU’s School of Business, the camp balances academic challenge with fun social experiences in a safe, supportive environment. Give your teen the tools to excel while building lifelong friendships—register now!​
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Debate Formats Offered:
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Lincoln Douglas Debate
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Public Forum Debate
Speech Categories:
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Platform Events (e.g., Original Oratory, Storytelling)
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Interpretation Events (e.g., Humorous Interpretation, Dramatic Interpretation, Duo Interpretation)
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Extemporaneous Events (e.g., Foreign or Domestic Extemp., Impromptu)
To learn more about each event, check out the National Speech and Debate Association's (NSDA's) Event Guide.
COMMUTER STUDENTS
Students of all backgrounds and experience levels are invited to join us this summer for RDI's 8th annual camp! Throughout the week, participants will make new friends, dive into an exciting academic activity, and cap off their experience by celebrating their accomplishments at our final award ceremony.
VCU School of Business
Monday to Friday, July 28th to August 1st
9AM to 5PM
$455, lunch and snacks included
*Topics Released in late June based on NSDA*
ABOUT RDI
Richmond Debate Institute (RDI) fosters critical thinking and public speaking through competitive speech and debate. Our community of state champion coaches, PhD lecturers, and resident counselors make our camp an enriching and memorable summer experience. We are dedicated to making speech and debate an inclusive community, where students can make life long friends and express their curiosity.
9AM
Student Drop Off
Commuter students join our residential students to begin their scheduled day of classes
15-Min.
9:15AM
Topic Analysis Lecture
Students hear from our PhD lecturers about complex debate topics to understand multiple angles of the resolution.
45-Min
10AM
Research Lab
Work with lab leaders to conduct high quality research, and learn how to navigate evidence and briefs
1-Hour
11AM
Mock Debates
Respond to cross examination questions, and think on your feet!
1-Hour
12PM
Lunch
Enjoy hot catered lunch inside the building, alongside all other debate peers.
1-Hour
1PM
Speaking Drills
Practice speaking exercises which enhance your articulation and clarity.
1-Hour
2PM
Intro to Case Writing Lecture
Learn how to draft a formal debate case using contentions, evidence, frameworks, and more.
1-Hour
3PM
Practice Rounds & Feedback
Perform in a full practice debate round against other students, and receive feedback from your instructors
2 -Hours
5PM
Student Pick Up
Commuter students are picked up while residential Scholars walk to Shafer Dining Hall.
15-Min.
Typical Daily Schedule
PARENTS TESTIMONIALS
Our son was overjoyed each day. It was such a positive and educational experience. The instructors were exceptional. This is an amazing opportunity! Thank you!
- Parent, 2023
