Empowering Young Minds Through Speech & Debate

Join our summer camps designed to build confidence, critical thinking, and communication skills for students in grades 6-8.

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About The Argument Lab

The Argument Lab is dedicated to providing high-quality speech and debate education to younger students. Our summer camps are designed to introduce students to the fundamentals of public speaking, argumentation, and critical thinking in a fun and supportive environment.

Whether your child is completely new to speech and debate or has some experience, our camps provide the perfect opportunity to grow their skills and meet other students who share their interests.

We're passionate about making speech and debate accessible to every child in Reno. Learning skills such as Argumentation, Research, and Confidence aren't limited to just proficiency in debate rounds—they are lifelong skills which will help students forever.

Students participating in debate

Summer Programs Overview

During the Summer of 2024, we launched our first camp, with students from all over Reno and Sparks. The program lasted a week, and students learned a variety of skills, allowing them to build confidence in their capabilities:

Argumentation

  • How to make an argument convincing
  • The different parts of an Argument
  • The importance of clear Argumentation

Public Speaking

  • Reducing verbal stutter
  • Hand Gestures and emphasis
  • Asking powerful cross-examination questions

Collaboration

Students did both solo and team-based activities, learning to work together to construct arguments and present them effectively.

Students at The Argument Lab

Argumentation Formats

Debate Format

SPAR Debate

SPAR (Spontaneous Argumentation) is a fun, fast-paced debate format we use to help students quickly develop their argumentation skills. It's perfect for beginners and helps build confidence in public speaking.

Debate Event Structure
01
Topic Selection

A simple, fun topic is announced (e.g., "Cats are better than dogs")

02
Quick Preparation

Students get 2 minutes to prepare their arguments

03
Debate Structure

Each speaker presents their case, then cross-examines their opponent

04
Audience Judging

The audience or judges determine which side made the most convincing arguments

Speech Format

Impromptu Speaking

Impromptu Speaking challenges students to organize and deliver a short speech on a random topic with minimal preparation time. This event develops quick thinking and clear communication skills.

Impromptu Presentation Practice
01
Topic Prompt

Students receive a random quote, word, or concept

02
Short Preparation

2 minutes to prepare a 5 minute speech outline

03
Speech Delivery

Organized with a clear Introduction, 2-3 main points, and conclusion

04
Evaluation

Based on content organization, structural quality, and delivery

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about our speech and debate camps.

What ages are your programs for? +

The program is primarily designed for students in grades 6-8, but is open to students slightly outside of that age range as well.

What is the cost of the program? +

The program is completely free.