Curriculum Overview

Delta Speech and Debate uses a rigorous curriculum focused on Public Forum— argumentation, evidence, speaking, and strategy for competitive PF.

Public Forum debate on stage at the National Speech & Debate Tournament, with pro and con tables and event branding

Public Forum Debate Basics

Structure rounds, weigh competing arguments, and use summaries and final focus to crystallize winning narratives—built on accessible, real-world issues.

Student delivering a speech from a podium on a large stage with a professional panel and event backdrop

Public Speaking

Develop clarity, pacing, and presence so every speech lands with purpose—whether opening a case, answering cross-ex, or delivering a closing appeal.

Hands writing and annotating debate briefs with pen, highlighting arguments and evidence

Argumentative Writing

Turn research into tight cases, blocks, and briefs: organized claims, cited evidence, and rebuttal-ready language you can adapt under pressure.

Two students collaborating at a classroom table with papers and notes, discussing and reviewing material

Logical Thinking

Trace warrants, compare frameworks, and stress-test reasoning so arguments hold up—spotting weak links before opponents do.

Two students at a wooden podium with a microphone, presenting in formal attire during a speech or debate exchange

Productive Discourse

Practice structured disagreement: respectful cross-ex, efficient refutation, and norms that keep debate rigorous without turning combative.

Two students at a restaurant table holding a Cal State Long Beach Forensics award plaque together

Self Confidence

Build repeatable prep habits and performance routines so students trust their prep, recover from mistakes, and speak with conviction in high-stakes rounds.