Cost
Free
Corona NTA QN0402 Debate Program
Free Adolescent Literacy program serving youth ages 5-18 in Corona, Queens, focusing on debate, critical thinking, and public speaking skills through NYC Urban Debate League
The Corona NTA program uses debate and competition to gamify and foster skills in literacy, critical thinking, public speaking, and civic engagement. Students develop real-world debate cases structured around city-wide debate tournaments, building essential literacy skills in a gamified and engaging environment. This curriculum introduces students to the fundamentals of public forum debate (PF), a two-on-two debate format that prepares them for academic competition opportunities.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | 98-11 44 Avenue, Corona, NY 11368 |
| Borough | Queens (Corona) |
| Provider | New York City Urban Debate League Inc |
| Website | debate.nyc |
| Phone | Contact through website |
Age Range
Ages 5-18
Program Type
Adolescent Literacy
Category
Education
The Corona Debate Program offers specialized skills development including:
- Public Forum Debate: Learn structured two-on-two debate format
- Critical Thinking: Analyze complex issues and construct logical arguments
- Research Skills: Investigate topics and gather evidence for debate cases
- Public Speaking: Develop confidence and communication skills
- Literacy Development: Strengthen reading, writing, and comprehension
- Civic Engagement: Explore current events and social issues
- Tournament Preparation: Compete in city-wide debate competitions
- Teamwork: Collaborate with partners on debate strategies
The New York City Urban Debate League (NYCDL) is dedicated to providing students across NYC with access to competitive debate opportunities. Founded on the principle that debate is a powerful tool for developing critical thinking and communication skills, NYCDL brings structured debate education to schools and communities throughout the five boroughs.
Urban debate leagues have been shown to significantly improve academic outcomes, particularly in reading and writing. Students who participate in debate programs demonstrate:
- Improved standardized test scores
- Higher graduation rates
- Increased college enrollment
- Enhanced critical thinking abilities
- Greater civic engagement
NYCDL partners with schools and community organizations to deliver comprehensive debate curricula that are engaging, rigorous, and accessible to all students regardless of prior experience. The organization provides professional development for coaches, tournament coordination, and resources to support debate programs citywide.
The program uses a gamified approach to make literacy development exciting and competitive. By framing learning around real-world debate tournaments, students are motivated to develop research, writing, and speaking skills in pursuit of competitive success. This approach has proven particularly effective for adolescent learners who respond well to challenge, competition, and peer recognition.
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Express Interest Contact the Corona program site or visit debate.nyc to learn about enrollment opportunities.
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Attend Information Session Participate in an orientation to understand the debate program format and expectations.
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Complete Registration Fill out enrollment forms with parent/guardian information and student details.
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Submit Documentation Provide required documents including proof of age and school enrollment.
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Begin Training Start attending debate practice sessions and literacy workshops.
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Join Competitions Participate in scrimmages and advance to city-wide tournaments as skills develop.
Directoryenrollment-packet/
- Completed registration form
- Proof of student’s age (birth certificate or school ID)
- School enrollment verification
- Emergency contact information
- Parent/guardian consent form
- Photo permission form (for tournaments)
- Medical information form
The Corona program site is well-served by public transportation:
- Subway: 7 train to 103rd St-Corona Plaza (5-minute walk) or 111th Street
- Bus: Q23, Q58, Q66, Q88 buses serve the Corona area
- Located in the heart of Corona, near vibrant commercial corridors
Corona Plaza
Community gathering space with cultural events, food vendors, and public programming
Library
Langston Hughes Library at 100-01 Northern Boulevard offers resources and study space
Parks
William F. Moore Park and Singer Playground provide recreation opportunities nearby
Diverse Community
Corona’s multicultural neighborhood offers rich cultural experiences and dining options
Last Updated: November 25, 2025