Course Description

This course emphasizes the methods and basic principles of critical inquiry, argument, advocacy, as well as classical and dialogical debate structures. Students are introduced to brief preparation, rhetorical theory, testing evidence, evaluating evidence sources, advancing reasoned positions, and effectively presenting and defending those positions. Analysis, presentation, and the evaluation of oral and written arguments are covered including identifying logical fallacies in reasoning and language. This course includes preparing and presenting two or more oral debates within the physical presence of the live classroom audience.