The Best Apologetics Competitors Share Their Secrets

Training Minds Ministry’s key verse is 1 Peter 1:13, “Train the mind for action.” Apologetics of the faith is an exciting course of action for young people and coaches. We have been providing apologetics programs since 2009 to help “train the mind” for competition in this event, and these camps were taught by some of the leaders in this event.

You can share in the learning with this CD ROM set. The CDs are all audio CDs that play in any computer or CD player. Simply drop the CD into your player and follow along with the accompanying Study Guide (extra copies sold separately). Take notes on your own as if you were there at Training Minds Camp. The printouts are laid out in order of the CD presentations.

Training Minds Coaches

• Luis Garcia: 2011 Undeafeted Stoa Champion and #1 Apologist on SpeechRanks.com
• Cynthia Jeub: #1 Colorado Extemper and six-year competitor
• Joanna Griffith: Champion Apologetics Competitor and Government Student at Patrick Henry College

Workshops

• CD 1 - The Foundation (Garcia)
  Discover the roots of “apologia,” its history and its application to the Christian life. Once that’s figured out, how does a student apply apologetics to competition? What about the judge, the ballot, and the topics? Coach Luis explains.
• CD 2 - Construction Junction (Garcia)
  The Schoolhouse Rock tune re-sung, “Construction Junction what’s your function?” The foundational preparation for apologetics include structuring your box, mapping out your theme, developing solid theses, and preparing the best cards possible.
• CD 3 - Using the Unique (Jeub)
  To gain a competitive edge, apologists should differentiate themselves. They do this by packing cards with thoughtful, solid content. Where to find this content is a learned skill explained by Cynthia.
• CD 4 - Research and the Room (Garcia, Jeub)
  Before entering the room, apologetic competitors must research well, simplify that research, and stay organized. Once in the room, following proper etiquette and breaking down the four minute speech takes practice.
• CD 5 - Organized for Success (Bettis, Griffith)
  In this session, we will orient ourselves to the apologetics category including: speech templates, organizing tips, and strategies for finding content and illustrations that move the hearts of the audience.
• CD 6 - Compelling Content (Griffith)
  What major philosophies, worldviews, and applicable ideologies relate to Apologetics? How can I best respond to Statement Analysis questions that pose a view contrary to Christianity? How can I present deeper analysis that will make my speech more impactful and distinguish it from other speeches in the room?
• CD 7 - Tournament Tactics (Griffith)
  How should I use prep. time? What if I do if I get a question for which I do not have a card? What are the characteristics of winning speakers? How should I approach my audience? How do I make my speech stand out in the room?
• CD 8 - A True Apologist, a True Champion (Garcia)
  Luis Garcia took first place in every tournament he competed in, ultimately taking the title for best apologist in the nation. How did he do that? Coach Garcia explains his theory of the “red zebra,” a theory that can make you a champion, too.

All Sessions recorded at Training Minds Camp!