SPCH 103: Argumentation and Debate

Citrus College Course Outline of Record

Citrus College Course Outline of Record
Heading Value
Effective Term: Fall 2021
Credits: 3
Total Contact Hours: 54
Lecture Hours : 54
Lab Hours: 0
Hours Arranged: 0
Outside of Class Hours: 108
Strongly Recommended: ENGL 101.
District General Education: A2. Communication & Analytical Thinking
Transferable to CSU: Yes
Transferable to UC: Yes - Approved
Grading Method: Standard Letter

Catalog Course Description

Basic theories, principles, and methods for various levels and forms of argumentation and debate. Preparation and presentation of practice debates on current issues. 54 lecture hours.

Course Objectives

  • understand and appreciate the importance of argument and debate in a democratic society
  • recognize the various levels and forms of argument and debates
  • determine his or her stand or point of view toward various issues of current interest
  • prepare a logical brief reflecting a particular stand or view of a current issue
  • apply the tools of research and evidence in support of logical claims
  • realize the strengths and weaknesses on the various sides of a controversy
  • employ effective principles and methods in active argumentation and debate with others
  • enhance his/her personal worth and selfconfidence
  • show greater respect and toleration of human differences as these apply to disagreements with others

Major Course Content

  1. The Importance and Place of Argumentation and Debate in a Democratic Society
  2. Levels, Forms, or Types of Argumentation and Debate
  3. Relevant Current Issues in the American Society
  4. The Parts of a Logical, Argumentative Brief
  5. Types and Propositions and Argumentative Brief
  6. Construction of Cases and Briefs
  7. Researching for and Using Evidence
  8. Methods and Strategies for Rebuttals
  9. Principles and Procedures of Verbal and Nonverbal Presentations in a Debate Situation
  10. Criteria in the Evaluation of Arguments and Debates

Suggested Reading Other Than Required Textbook

Numerous newspapers, online news sources, library database source research.

Examples of Required Writing Assignments

Numerous resaerch papers requiring logic and evidence to support specific position(s)are required.
A typical paper may be 4 to 8 pages plus bibliography.

Examples of Outside Assignments

Each student is required to research, write and present argumentative briefs on specific topics.

Instruction Type(s)

Lecture, Online Education Lecture

IGETC Area 1: English Communication

1C. Oral Communication