Speech and Debate

Students in Speech and Debate meet for two trimesters during the school year and study various formats of speeches and debates. Emphasis is placed on the development of logical arguments, confidence in public speaking, and oral persuasiveness. Students are expected to undertake extensive research related to current debate topics published by the National Speech and Debate Association (NSDA). Various forms of debate are explored, such as Congressional Debate, Lincoln-Douglas Debate, and Public Forum Debate.  Students are also encouraged to try individual non-debate speech events, such as extemporaneous speaking, impromptu speaking, duo interpretation, dramatic interpretation, humorous interpretation, informative speaking, and original oratory. 

 

Over the last several years, Trinity students have been awarded numerous awards at tournaments including winning team sweepstakes, congressional debate team awards, best debater, best speaker, and many more. The NSDA has designated Trinity as a “Charter School,” the highest honor given to a high school.

 

NSDA National Tournament

2018 – 1 qualifier

2019 – 3 qualifiers

2020 – 5 qualifiers

2021 – 7 qualifiers

2022 – 8 qualifiers

2023 – 6 qualifiers