sWord Speech and Debate

Who We Are:

We are a Christian homeschool community who help students develop public speaking skills in order to engage our culture with a Christian worldview.  We do this primarily through weekly meetings where all members, whether new to public speaking or experienced, can learn the art of public speaking in a supportive, educational, and fun environment.  Each week, students polish their skills by giving and receiving constructive feedback from coaches and club members. We introduce each event and set incremental assignments toward skill building in research, writing, and presentation. Our desire is to cultivate a close-knit, supportive group that is committed to encouraging each student to grow, mature, and succeed.

What is Competitive Speech?

Similar to speech and debate leagues in public schools, Stoa holds tournaments locally and nationally where students present their speeches to community and parent judges who evaluate them and give them feedback so they can continue to improve.  A fun part of speech club is participating in these tournaments.

The Events We Coach:

  • Platform Speeches
    (Original Oratory, Persuasive, Expository with visual aids)
  • Limited Preparation Speeches
    (Apologetics, Mars Hill, Impromptu, Extemporaneous)
  • Interpretive Presentations
    (Dramatic, Humorous, Duo, Open)
  • Current Wildcard Events
  • Lincoln Douglas and Team Policy Debate

Visit the StoaUSA website for details about each competitive event.

You Will Learn How to …

…develop writing and presentation skills.
…research and analyze a topic.
…listen and speak well.
…develop appreciation for edifying literature.
…logically analyze speeches and presentations.
…give and receive constructive feedback.
…dress and act in a professional manner.
…develop Christian character through hard work, humility, and honoring others.
…encourage, support, and empathize with others.
…set goals, manage time, and gain organizational skills.

Where We Meet:

Emergent Campus
215 Maple Street
Florence, CO 81226

When We Meet:

For the 2024-2025 school year, we will be meeting on Tuesdays from 3:00pm-6:00 p.m. beginning September 10, 2024 and ending April 29, 2025. Those preparing for Nationals will meet for personal coaching through May.

 

What is the Annual Cost?

The annual cost per family per year is $150. This includes all instruction, all handouts, all one-on-one coaching, the ability to communicate with coaches throughout the week and receive aid and feedback, AND a club T-shirt.

Questions?

Please contact sWord at swordspeech@gmail.com.