Description
Elements of Lincoln-Douglas Debate Handbook (eBook)
Downloadable PDF – 187 pages
Introductory Price $50 nonmembers / $40 members
Sale price ends- Oct. 1 $60 nonmembers / $50 members
Description
Elements of Lincoln-Douglas – A Handbook for Mastering Outer Space
The ultimate 2025–26 Lasting Impact! LD debate resource.
Whether you’re a seasoned debater or just getting started, this 187-page handbook is packed with tools and resources to help you engage confidently with this year’s resolution:
“In the exploration and utilization of outer space, international cooperation should be prioritized.”
More Than Just Cases – A Complete Debate Toolbox
Unlike debate sourcebooks that focus only on sample cases, Elements of Lincoln-Douglas offers a well-rounded, practical guide for students, coaches, and parents alike.
Inside, you’ll find:
Instruction in Core LD Skills – From cross-examination techniques to narrative development
Rich Topic Analysis – Articles exploring sci-fi and media bias, liberalism vs. realism, ethical frameworks, biblical worldview, and lessons from the Age of Exploration
Step-by-Step Case Construction – Learn how to define terms, analyze the resolution, choose a value, build contentions, and write compelling applications
Strategic Negative Argumentation – Insights on how to develop a negative strategy, including tactics, examples, and ready-to-use applications
Interactive Worksheets – Tools to help students build, revise, and refine cases and to practice cross examination
Coaching Tips Throughout – Practical advice, reminders, and helpful strategies
Seven Full Cases – Featuring contributions from national champions Alithea West (2024 Stoa Mars Hill and Parli Debate Champion) and Caleb McClure (2025 NCFCA LD Champion)
Guidance and Strategy for the Season
Think of this handbook as your personal mentor for the debate season. It will save you hours of research, clarify complex ideas, and guide you in developing clear, strategic, and compelling arguments. Many of the tools and tips inside are the same techniques we teach in our coaching sessions and camps.
Written With Experience – From Both Sides of the Table
Co-authored by an experienced NCFCA coach and parent alum who is still active in the league, and a seasoned NCFCA alum debater currently competing in college, this guide brings over 20 years of combined experience into one resource. Their unique perspectives offer a blend of insight, encouragement, and wisdom that sets this handbook apart.
Don’t start your season without it.
Grab your copy of Elements of Lincoln-Douglas and get ready to launch (pun intended) your best LD season yet.
What people are saying…
“Among the resources I’ve used this year, The Elements of LD has been the most valuable. As someone teaching a novice (and needing teaching myself!), I felt fully equipped. This handbook really breaks down the elements of Lincoln-Douglas debate for the beginner but is also a benefit to experienced debaters because it is specific to this year’s resolution. We’ve learned a lot from the teaching materials and also the multiple sample cases. This resource has been a lifesaver!” Sara, parent
About the Authors
Hillary Kolssak: Hillary has been teaching and coaching Lincoln-Douglas debate for over a decade. Throughout the years, she has guided many students in developing a deeper understanding of values-based debate and helped them think critically about the weighty topics LD presents. In addition to coaching, she has judged hundreds of rounds and has a strong grasp of how students can effectively connect with and persuade their judges. She is currently serving as club co-director, advanced speech coach and LD coach at EverReady Speech & Debate Club in the Chicago area.
She recently completed the Colson Fellows Program, which equips individuals to examine life’s issues through a biblical worldview – an approach she brings into her teaching. Hillary is passionate about helping students excel in both speech and debate, but even more importantly, she seeks to cultivate growth in integrity, wisdom, and character.
Nathanael Kolssak: Nathanael grew up attending NCFCA tournaments with his older siblings, and when he was old enough, he began competing in Team Policy. Over his many years in the league, he also competed in Interp, Limited Prep, Platform speeches, Moot Court, and Lincoln-Douglas, earning numerous awards along the way. During his senior year, he won Team Policy at Regionals.
Nathanael attends Cedarville University, where he serves as co-captain of the debate team. He competes in college speech and parliamentary debate and actively coaches students, emphasizing narrative techniques in debate. Majoring in Communication, he plans to pursue a Master’s degree in the same field, focusing on rhetoric. Passionate about teaching and mentorship, Nathanael hopes to one day teach communication, helping students develop their skills in speaking with grace and persuasion.
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