How to Start a Debate Club
Debate clubs focus on learning to construct and criticize arguments in a logical fashion, which gives members the skills to evaluate and effectively articulate political or academic opinions. In addition to developing these valuable skills, members often participate in competitions and events around the area. Find people to join your debate club and a sponsor or coach; then find a good location to host your club meetings. Starting the debate club only requires these few things, but keeping people interested means organizing regular events and meetings -- alone, or with the help of your coach or sponsor.
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Instructions
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Find a few like-minded students who are interested in starting a debate club. These can be your friends, if you wish, or you can ask people who are particularly adept at -- or interested in -- debating. Try to find a few allies at this early stage to make the setup work easier. Explain to them all of the potential benefits of starting a debate club, such as enhanced reasoning and arguing ability and the opportunity to participate in competitions.
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Ask around to find a coach or sponsor. A sponsor is somebody who isn’t necessarily involved in a hands-on sense, but who will allow his name to be used on official paperwork as the faculty member in-charge. Ask English or social studies teachers first, because these teachers usually have some expertise in debating. If no English or social studies teachers are interested, broaden your horizons and ask other teachers -- or even former staff members.
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Ask the teacher you’ve recruited if you can use their room after school hours or at lunchtime to hold your meetings. It is important to have a space which is just for you and your club to use for debates. Make friends with the principal or vice principal. Not only can they help if you are having trouble finding supportive staff members, they can also help secure a good location for your debates. Explain to them how debating is an important part of intellectual society and learning to do so, will help students in later life. Principals may even be able to provide some funds to help with club expenses.
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Recruit students who are interested in debating; this may be the most difficult part. Mention it to friends, and begin to spread the word. Put up posters advertising the first meeting. Post them a week or two before the meeting, so people have plenty of notice. Ask permission from the principal to stage a public debate during lunchtime or recess. This can be an effective way to get students interested in the process and involved in your club.
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Host a weekly meeting for the club. Use debate topics chosen from current affairs in the news or from the web, if you run out of ideas. If your sponsor has agreed to participate in a coaching role, they should provide feedback and ensure that the debate stays civilized and orderly.
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Join an association which holds debate competitions. Look for one in your area, or join a national group, such as the International Debate Education Association or the National Forensic League. Learn about the different competitions offered by these groups, utilize their resources and familiarize your group with their official rules. Participate in as many events as you can to give your members more opportunity to hone their skills.
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