DEBATE AND MOCK TRIAL
“Speech is power: speech is to persuade, to convert, to compel.”
― Ralph Waldo Emerson ―
Our Debate and Mock Trial teams offer students an unparalleled opportunity to develop essential skills in public speaking, logic, and critical thinking. Through rigorous research, analyzing complex issues, and developing problem-solving strategies, students learn to construct persuasive arguments, think on their feet, and communicate with clarity and confidence.
Debate
Our well-respected Debate Team has a strong legacy of excellence, consistently competing at a high level and earning recognition in regional and state tournaments. Through teamwork and collaboration, students will sharpen their analytical skills, learn to understand multiple viewpoints, and engage in respectful discourse. For students interested in current events, law, politics, journalism, public speaking, or just making friends, our Debate Team is an opportunity to gain invaluable skills in leadership, communication, and creativity.
Mock Trial
Consistently top-ranked in Alameda County, O'Dowd's Mock Trial Team regularly travels to national tournaments. Students will work as a team to prepare for trial, learning to question witnesses, craft persuasive arguments, and present a winning case. Whether students take on the role of a dynamic attorney or a dramatic witness, they will gain valuable insights into the legal system while having a lot of fun.
