SPCH 160 Argumentation and Debate

The course includes skill training in reasoning and researching as well as presenting and defending positions effectively. Recommended for students seeking careers in law, business, teaching, or politics. Students will be taught the appropriateness and ethics of good argumentation. They will learn how to build arguments using effective evidence and reasoning while learning to recognize the fallacies of weak arguments. Argumentation skills will be applied for effective delivery in academic, legislative, judicial, and/ or political debates. Students will enhance their skills by being videotaped and being required to review those tapes and turn-in a self-evaluation.

Credits

3

Prerequisite

SPCH 105

Hours Weekly

3

Course Objectives

1. 1. Analyze, develop, and present effective arguments.
2. 2. Gather and use evidence appropriate to the arguments.
3. 3. Develop and present alternative points of view supported by qualitative and quantitative evidence.
4. 4. Construct and defend a strong prima facie debate case.
5. 5. Explain and speak clearly and analytically when presenting, defending or refuting an argumentative
   position.
6. 6. Demonstrate critical listening skills by responding appropriately to opponent’s arguments.
7. 7. Evaluate and recognize valid and invalid arguments.
8. 8. Describe the form and function of debate in a variety of situations (academic, legislative, judicial and
   political).
9. 9. Enhance public speaking skills and presentation styles.

Course Objectives

1. 1. Analyze, develop, and present effective arguments.
2. 2. Gather and use evidence appropriate to the arguments.
3. 3. Develop and present alternative points of view supported by qualitative and quantitative evidence.
4. 4. Construct and defend a strong prima facie debate case.
5. 5. Explain and speak clearly and analytically when presenting, defending or refuting an argumentative
   position.
6. 6. Demonstrate critical listening skills by responding appropriately to opponent’s arguments.
7. 7. Evaluate and recognize valid and invalid arguments.
8. 8. Describe the form and function of debate in a variety of situations (academic, legislative, judicial and
   political).
9. 9. Enhance public speaking skills and presentation styles.