Residential · California
Novice Debate at Ascend California
The Program
A Welcoming Introduction to Debate
Our Novice program introduces students to debate through Congressional Debate, where students debate legislation in a group setting as if they were members of the United States legislature.
It combines the presentation skills of speech events with the research and argumentation of traditional debate — the perfect foundation for students just beginning their competitive journey.
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Who It's For
Target Students for This Program
Grade Level
6th through 11th grade in the '26–'27 academic year.
Minimum Experience
No requirement — this program is built for true beginners.
Maximum Experience
Up to 1 year of competitive experience in any debate event.
Summer 2027
Ascend California Novice Debate Experiences
Flagship Experiences
2 Week Residential
July 11–25 — our complete flagship residential experience.
Register Now2 Week Residential with 1-on-1 Package
July 11–25, plus a dedicated 1-on-1 package — limited to 10 students.
Register Now2 Week Residential for '27 & '28
Lock in two consecutive summers of flagship residential training.
Register NowShort Form
2 Week Commuter
July 11–25 — two full weeks for local students who commute daily.
Register NowWhy Ascend
Why Novice Debate at Ascend California?
Start Where Champions Start
Every winner of the Tournament of Champions in Congressional Debate this decade has been part of Team Ascend. Our alumni include multiple NSDA award winners and state tournament champions — and many of them began their journey as novices.
Top Tier Coaches
Champions and coaches of champions guide you from your very first speech.
Community
Join the largest Congressional Debate community in the country from day one.
Personalization
A personalized approach that meets every new debater where they are.
What's Included
Key Features
One-on-One Sessions
Personalized coaching, on average every other day of camp.
Mock Rounds
One to two mock rounds daily with tailored feedback.
Office Hours
In-person and virtual office hours to support your growth.
School Year Coaching
Free year-round coaching through Ascend Academy.
Lectures
On the core concepts of Congressional Debate.
Regional Specialization
Guidance tailored to your local league and the national circuit.
A Day at Camp
Sample Daily Schedule
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 8:15am – 9:00am | Breakfast |
| 9:00am – 9:15am | Lab Warm-Ups |
| 9:15am – 10:00am | Content Lectures |
| 10:00am – 1:00pm | Lab Time |
| 1:00pm – 2:00pm | Lunch |
| 2:00pm – 6:00pm | Lab Time |
| 6:00pm – 7:00pm | Dinner |
| 7:00pm – 8:00pm | Office Hours & One-on-Ones |
| 8:00pm – 9:00pm | Ascend Cup Competitions, Fun Activities, or Free Time |
| 9:00pm – 10:45pm | Fun Activities or Free Time |