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 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. 

Richmond Debate Students

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

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