Program
During the course of the institute, the number one priority is helping students produce a highly competitive original oration. In order to facilitate this, our curriculum is based on three basic tenets:
- Think
- Investigate
- Share
Think
Theory Lecture Series
Students at The Lyceum have already mastered the basics of Original Oratory –we want to help bring them beyond competition and structure. Orators expand their minds and competitive prowess through a thought provoking focus on sociological, rhetorical, and philosophical theory.
What does a lecture series on theory do for the high school Original Oratory competitor? Well, The Lyceum strives to take Oratory to the next stage, and understanding rhetorical and persuasive theory gives students a foundation to persuade and communicate on an advanced level. Additionally, the study of sociology and philosophy ignites critical and analytical thinking.
The Lyceum’s Theory Lecture Series (TLS) is designed to initiate critical discussion in ways general instruction often cannot. TLS is a fun, exciting, new, and educational approach to Original Oratory. Through this process Lyceum student’s become self actualized orators –deconstructing problems and developing speeches on their own, as well as teaching their teammates. But most importantly, students learn to view the world through a critical and analytical lens – a preparation for college, and life, that no other camp experience can provide.
Here’s what students have to say about TLS:
“It was important for me to learn about different theories and movements that I could utilize in writing oratory. I feel that I can finally come from a place of knowledge and understanding in my speeches, and use that knowledge to make my oratories more universal; more powerful.” - Marie Agnello, 2006 NFL National Finalist
“These theory lectures sparked an interest in something that extended far beyond a classroom of competitors, judges, and desks. I honestly feel, as ridiculous as it may sound, that learning about these topics have made me a better person. These lectures helped to make a thousand dollar forensics camp an invaluable learning experience.” - James McGraw, 2005 NCFL National Champion, 2006 NCFL National Runner-Up
“I can honestly say that the sociological lectures changed my outlook on my personal life and the way that I approach oration and public persuasive speaking in general.” -Anthony Del Gigante
Investigate
Original Oratory demands that individuals not only identify large social problems, but also investigate issues, and uncover trends. Because of this, The Lyceum takes a journalistic approach to research. Students participate in structured debates, and perform public surveys throughout Boston’s robust metropolitan area. Using grassroots methods and hands on instruction, students are taught to uncover unlikely sources, and search for the stories that have not yet been told.
Share
Here, our belief is that oratory has no boundaries. Therefore our curriculum is built on the foundation that public speaking is a form of activism. Oratory at its best, provides students with a safe and accessible outlet to articulate ideas that are important to them. Within oratorical competition we often do not make the connections between reality and the classroom, but at The Lyceum we see oratory as a personal, passionate, and intimate endeavor—one that requires personal investment and the utmost care.
In order to ensure that a student’s speech will sustain and motivate them throughout the season, we do not simple “provide” students with topics. Instead, topics are inspired by their own passions, experiences, and interests. Additionally, we teach guerrilla style speaking techniques to ensure that our students converse with their audiences, rather than simply perform at them.
With passionate enthusiasm, it is our belief that students can truly make an impact.
