GOHS Speech & Debate - SPEECH & DEBATE

What Is Speech & Debate?

Speech & Debate is a competitive academic activity that helps students become stronger communicators, researchers, thinkers, and leaders.

Students compete in a variety of events, including public speaking, interpretation, acting, current-events speaking, and structured debate. Some events are prepared in advance, while others challenge students to think and respond in the moment.

Students do not need to begin as confident public speakers. Many join specifically because they want to become more comfortable speaking, performing, or defending their ideas.

Start Here - Requirements & Commitments

What Students Gain

Through Speech & Debate, students develop:

Confidence and public-speaking skills
Critical thinking and problem solving
Research and media literacy
Writing and organization
Quick thinking under pressure
Leadership and teamwork
Resilience and adaptability
College and career communication skills

The Academic Impact

Research has associated competitive debate participation with stronger academic outcomes.

A large Houston ISD study found debate participation was associated with gains in GPA and SAT performance. Research involving Boston Public Schools has also found higher rates of high school graduation and college enrollment among debate participants.

Other research on former competitors has found that many continue into higher education and graduate study.

There’s an Event for Everyone

Students can compete in public speaking, interpretation and acting, current-events speaking, original speaking, or several forms of debate.

Some events are individual, some use partners, and others involve a team. Some are prepared in advance, while others require students to think and respond in the moment.

Whether a student enjoys research, acting, storytelling, current events, advocacy, writing, or competition, there is usually an event that fits their strengths and interests.

Events & Competition

Coaches & Leadership

Tournament Dress

Accomplishments

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