RESOURCES
Here you can find a number of resoruces for teaching and studying speech and debate. Please feel free to use these materials with attribution.
What speech tips can we learn from Nixon’s famous Checker’s Speech?
In this video, CSD tutor Olivia Knoll examines how Nixon effectively responded to accusations leading up to the 1952 election. Olivia talks about how Nixon's rhetorical moves are instructive for all of us. https://youtu.be/r7MIxT65V0E
What AOC can teach you about public speaking
In this video, CSD tutor Jamie Christiansen examines how Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez uses style and argument in her response to Ted Yoho. Jamie translates this effective speech into some tips to improve your next speech. Originally created for her COM 320: Advanced Public Speaking class, Jamie has agreed to share this resource with the CSD. https://youtu.be/iz9az1T06os
CSD Debate: Who was the greatest heavyweight of all time: Joe Louis or Muhammad Ali?
The “Rhetoric and/as Boxing” course moderated a heavyweight debate. Two high profile boxing writers debated the resolution: “Who was the greatest heavyweight of all time? Joe Louis or Muhammed Ali?” Arguing for Louis was Bernard Fernandez, a 2020 inductee into the International Boxing Hall of Fame. Arguing for Ali was longtime Ring Magazine Managing Editor, Tom Gray. We followed a ... >>
How to watch a televised debate
CSD director, Dr. Matt McGarrity, worked with TVW on a video for Washington State schools on "How to watch a televised debate." Dr. McGarrity teaches the debate technique known as "flowing" and emphasizes to voters the importance of taking notes when watching televised debates. https://youtu.be/BOB8pd9NBmI
Rhetoric and/as Boxing: Physical arguments
Boxing, speech, and debate may seem like vastly different activities, but they share much in common. They involve performance, competition, strategy, and the ability to think on your feet. Like competitive specch and debate, boxers perform their arguments for the judges. This leads us to a discussion of how a fighter “argues for a round” or, potentially, “steals” the round ... >>