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Unlock Your Child’s Voice – The Power of English Debate Classes (With Fun Topic Ideas!)

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June 29, 2025
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Is Your Child Studying English… But Still Can’t Speak It?

If your child has studied English for years but struggles to express their thoughts, the issue might not be grammar—it’s a lack of speaking practice.

American students grow up with discussion-based classes that teach them to express opinions, ask questions, and respond confidently. These aren’t just “conversation” classes; they’re debate-based, and they’re the fastest way to build real fluency.

In this article, we explore why English debate classes are a game-changer, how your child can experience them right here in Korea, and what makes Nao Now’s debate program truly exceptional.

Why Every Child Needs Debate Training in English

Being “good” at English isn’t about memorizing vocabulary lists. It’s about organizing thoughts, expressing ideas, and persuading others—in English.

Debate classes develop not just language skills, but also life skills:

  • Critical Thinking – Evaluating both sides of an argument
  • Articulation – Structuring and expressing ideas clearly
  • Confidence – Speaking assertively in front of others
  • Empathy – Respecting and responding to different opinions

In short, debate builds communicators—not test-takers.

Who Benefits Most from English Debate Classes?

  • Children who memorize well but freeze in real conversation
  • Students with limited experience forming opinions in English
  • Kids preparing for international schools or study abroad
  • Learners who want to grow both creativity and communication

What Makes Nao Now’s Debate Classes Different?

At Nao Now, debate isn’t just "English speaking practice"—it’s a refined, research-backed curriculum designed by world-class experts and powered by real-time mentorship.

Meet the Architect: Rachel Mullen

  • Winner, World Individual Debating and Public Speaking Championship
  • Former Yale student body president
  • Speaker at a live event with U.S. President Joe Biden
  • Global conference speaker on education and child development

Rachel believes debate changes lives. At Nao Now, she’s built a program that trains kids to think and express themselves confidently—in English.

6 Key Features of Nao Now’s English Debate Program

  1. Debate Curriculum Designed by a World Champion
    Expert-crafted program reflecting international debate standards.
  2. 1:1 Personalized Online Debate Sessions
    One-on-one lessons with Ivy League mentors tailored to your child’s level.
  3. Authentic American Debate Format
    Claim → Evidence → Rebuttal → Counter-argument → Closing statements.
  4. Level-Based Learning from Grades 1–9 (Levels 1–5)
    Fully customized for each grade level and skill stage.
  5. Practice-Driven Sessions Focused on Speaking, Not Theory
    Less lecture, more live debating—learning by doing.
  6. Monthly Live Workshops with Rachel Mullen
    High-level, themed debate events to deepen mastery.

What Does a Typical Class Look Like?

Each class is tailored to your child’s level (1–5) and includes:

  • Mini Debate – Immediate opinion sharing on a fun topic
  • Background Reading – Learn facts and key phrases
  • Rebuttal Practice – Organize logic, prep arguments
  • Guided Debate – Live back-and-forth with mentor + feedback

Mentors adjust vocabulary, structure, and complexity based on student ability.

Curriculum Breakdown by Level

Beginner (Levels 1–2)
Sample Topics:

  • “Is breakfast really the most important meal?”
  • “Pizza vs. Burgers – which is better?”
    Focus: Emotional expression, basic argument structure

Intermediate (Levels 3–4)
Sample Topics:

  • “What’s the right age for a smartphone?”
  • “Will AI replace teachers?”
    Focus: Real-life issues, multi-step reasoning

Advanced (Level 5)
Sample Topics:

  • “Should humans move to Mars?”
  • “Climate change and humanity’s future”
    Focus: Abstract thinking, fluent persuasive speaking

Sample Topics from Nao Now’s Debate Library

All topics are designed to spark curiosity and motivate kids to speak.
A few examples:

  • “Should we live on Mars one day?”
  • “Is pizza better than burgers?”
  • “Do we need homework every day?”
  • “Should elementary students use smartphones?”

All lessons are customized per student—topics are matched to age, interest, and level.

Prep Guide: How to Get Ready for English Debate Class

Before class, help your child…

  • Practice: “I like ___ because ___.”
  • Learn basics: “I think,” “In my opinion,” etc.
  • Train both sides: Think of reasons for AND against
  • Talk about hobbies or food in English at home
  • Adopt a growth mindset: “It’s okay to make mistakes!”

Why Debate Solves What Traditional English Doesn’t

Many Korean students ace grammar exams—but can’t speak their minds in English.
Why? Because test-based learning doesn’t teach expression.

English debate fills that gap. It transforms English from a school subject into a life skill.

The Long-Term Impact of Debate Training

Debate doesn’t just boost English—it builds:

  • Logical reasoning
  • Public speaking confidence
  • Persuasion & negotiation skills
  • Leadership

For students aiming for international schools or studying abroad, debate is essential. It fosters independence, adaptability, and cultural fluency—critical traits for thriving overseas.

Parents’ Guide: Choosing the Right Debate Program

When selecting a debate program, check:

  • Instructor Credentials – Teaching English is different from teaching debate. Look for experts like Nao Now’s Ivy League mentors and world-class trainers.
  • Curriculum Structure – Look for a clear, proven progression—not random chatting. Nao Now follows a structured, U.S.-style model.

Tips to Maximize the Debate Class Experience

  • Ask your child questions about class topics—even in Korean
  • Celebrate small wins: “You explained that so clearly!”
  • Reinforce this message: “Mistakes are okay. What matters is trying.”

Memorizing Words vs. Speaking Ideas – What Do You Want for Your Child?

Your child’s fluency isn’t measured by word count—but by their ability to express a thought.
If grammar books haven’t unlocked their voice, now’s the time to try something different.

Why Choose Nao Now for English Debate?

✅ Curriculum designed by a global debate champion
✅ 1:1 mentorship with Ivy League mentors
✅ Growth in fluency, critical thinking, and confidence

👉 Try a 25-minute free English debate class today
Let your child experience the joy of thinking and speaking in English.

Nao Now—We Raise Thinkers. We Empower Speakers.

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