National Speech and Debate

Since 1931, the National Speech and Debate Tournament has elevated public speaking. Every summer, more than 6,000 middle and high school students travel to the largest academic competition in the world to debate current events, voice their views, and share their stories. After months of preparation, rigorous qualifying tournaments, and five days of prestigious national competition, the best of the best will be crowned champions in front of a live audience of thousands and tens of thousands more streaming the events online.

Qualified districts from around the U.S. are invited to participate in the National Tournament.

How do I get started? Click here.

How do I expand this narrative arc? Are you deeply involved in debate and curious about how to expand your narrative arc in a way that helps you stand out from the pack?

  • Start a Speakers Corner at your school, at which student debate timely issues in a respectful, extemporaneous way.

  • Combine history and debate in a We the People speech competitions

  • Get involved with the National U.S. Model Congress

  • Spend a week gaining insight into the workings of the U.S. Senate and the federal government at the U.S. Senate Summer Program

  • Expand your expertise into the international realm with Best Delegate Model UN’s online programs and summer camps.

  • Put your thoughts in writing and enter one of the many youth journalism competition like Youth Journalism International, which include categories for opinion pieces.

  • Enter one of the many youth writing competitions sponsored by The New York Times.

Competition, Summer ProgramBetsy PutnamSocial Sciences