MIDDLE SCHOOL CAMP
Introduction to Public Forum Debate
Almost all of our middle school students have no prior experience with speech and debate, and quickly become excited with the activity at our camp.
Public Forum is a partnered debate format that develops collaboration and team work among students. Campers work in pairs to search for online evidence, practice their speeches, and prepare for the final tournament at the end of the week. Each summer, our camp has a unique and important debate topic, chosen by the National Speech and Debate Association.
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Final Camp Tournament
All campers will compete at our end of week tournament. Students dress in formal attire, compete with real volunteer judges, and attend an award ceremony at the end. We welcome parents to attend our award ceremony to take pictures and celebrate their children's academic achievement.
MIDDLE SCHOOL CAMP
VCU School of Business
Monday to Friday, July 22nd to July 26th
9AM to 5PM
499 $475, lunch and snacks included
*Topics Released in late May*
Our middle school students (ages 10-13) learn the fundamentals of presenting and civil argumentation, while participating in mock debates, research games, and more. Students will have warm lunches and snacks daily, and will also receive RDI swag on the first day of camp.
ABOUT RDI
Richmond Debate Institute is a nationally recognized speech and debate summer camp program for middle and high school students. Our community of seasoned coaches, PhD lecturers, and resident assistants make our camp a lively and engaging summer experience. We are dedicated to making our camps an inclusive community, where students can make life long friends and express their curiosity.
8:45 - 9AM
Student Drop Off
Students join in the lobby of the VCU School of Business to start their day!
15-Min.
9:15AM
Topic Introduction Lesson
Students hear from our PhD lecturers about complex topics to understand multiple angles of the resolution.
45-Min
10AM
Debate Games
Students participate in games that make learning and research fun!
1-Hour
11AM
Case Writing
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 Online Research
Learn how to draft a formal debate case using contentions, evidence, frameworks, and more.
1-Hour
3PM
Practice & 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
