Parents often want to know what actually happens during a DSDC class. Here is a realistic walkthrough of a typical two-hour group session, minute by minute, so you can picture what your child's week looks like.
Minutes 0-10: Warm-up and Check-in
The class opens with a quick warm-up: a one-minute impromptu speech on a light topic, a brainstorming exercise, or a discussion of a recent news story. The goal is to get every student speaking in the first ten minutes so nobody has time to feel nervous about it.
Minutes 10-30: Lesson or Skill Focus
Each class has a specific skill focus - for example, how to construct a case, how to take Points of Information, how to give a strong rebuttal, or how to structure a speech with a clear signpost. The coach introduces the concept, shows examples, and leads a short discussion before moving into practice.
Minutes 30-75: Speaking Practice and Drills
This is the biggest block of the class. Students split into pairs or small groups (using Zoom breakout rooms), work on the skill that was just introduced, and deliver speeches or run partial debates. The coach rotates between groups giving real-time feedback. Every student gets multiple speaking opportunities.
Minutes 75-110: Full Practice Round
Most classes include a full practice round - either a short formal debate or a speech competition, depending on the week. Students apply what they just learned under realistic conditions. Coaches take notes on each speaker to use during the feedback session.
Minutes 110-120: Feedback and Homework
The class closes with direct feedback to each student - what worked, what to improve, and what to focus on next week. Students also receive a short homework assignment: a research task, a speech outline, or a reflection on the day's round. Homework is designed to be manageable, usually 20-30 minutes of work between classes.
What Makes This Structure Work
Every class mixes instruction, practice, application, and feedback. Students do not sit through 30 minutes of lecture - they are speaking, listening, and responding constantly. That is how debate skill actually builds. For a deeper look, read our guide on what a debate class actually looks like.