Question 1

What ages and grades do you teach?

Accepted Answer

DSDC offers debate and public speaking classes for students in Grades 4 through 12. We split students into Novice (Grades 4-6), Junior (Grades 7-9), Senior (Grades 10-12), and Advanced Competitive (Grades 10-12) based on age, confidence, and experience.

Question 2

How are classes conducted?

Accepted Answer

All DSDC classes are held live online via Zoom. Group classes are 2 hours per session with 8-12 students, so every child gets personalized attention and real speaking practice every week. Private coaching is also available with flexible scheduling.

Question 3

How much do classes cost?

Accepted Answer

DSDC publishes pricing openly. Novice & Intermediate Debate and Public Speaking are $720 CAD per 12-week term plus applicable taxes. World Scholar's Cup is $960 CAD per term. Advanced Competitive is $1,200 CAD per term. Private coaching and sibling discounts are also available.

Question 4

Does my child need prior debate experience?

Accepted Answer

No. DSDC's Novice and Public Speaking classes are designed for complete beginners. Many of our most successful students started with zero experience. We place every new student into the right level based on grade, confidence, and goals.

Question 5

What does a typical class look like?

Accepted Answer

Classes begin with a short warm-up or lesson on a current topic, followed by structured speaking practice or full debate rounds, and end with personalized feedback from the coach. Students also receive homework and written feedback between sessions.

Question 6

Can my child try a class before committing?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We encourage families to book a free 15-minute consultation first, and we can often arrange a trial session so your child can experience the class environment before enrolling. There is no commitment required.

Question 7

What is the World Scholar's Cup?

Accepted Answer

The World Scholar's Cup (WSC) is a prestigious international academic competition combining team debate, collaborative writing, a multiple-choice exam, and a team quiz. DSDC has maintained a 100% qualification rate since 2020 - every team we've coached has advanced from regionals through globals and the Tournament of Champions at Yale.

Question 8

How do I register or get started?

Accepted Answer

The easiest way to start is to book a free 15-minute consultation. We'll discuss your child's interests, recommend the right class, and walk you through enrollment - no commitment required.

Online Debate & Public Speaking Classes

Who teaches your child

Archie Wolifson

Rebecca Amisano

David Zu

From first call to first class

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Started by a 15-year-old debater in 2017

Our Classes

Public Speaking

Debate

World Scholar's Cup

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