DEBATE PROJECT
As a group, choose a current controversial issue in the field of education. Your group will split into two opposing sides for the debate. Each group will research and explore one side of the issue and then present a solid argument in defense of their position. Be prepared to respond to the opposing side and to field questions from the class. A. Written Outline After selecting a topic and positions, each team (pro/con) will write an outline including an introduction and conclusion. Each team member must independently research the topic and then work together to write arguments. You will need a minimum of three pieces of evidence to support your position. For each detail, be sure to provide supporting arguments, citing specific research from outside sources. Your team will hand in one paper for each side (pro/con). Please include a bibliography using MLA formatting. This paper should be two to three pages. Debate Outline Format: 1. Affirmative Introduction 2. Body a. Evidence with citations b. Evidence with citations c. Evidence with citations 3. Conclusion/Summary 4. Bibliography 1. Negative Introduction 2. Body a. Evidence with citations b. Evidence with citations c. Evidence with citations 3. Conclusion/Summary 4. Bibliography B. Debate Your group will be divided into two teams. Each team will present the side of the issue that they wrote about in the written report. Your entire group will need to meet to prepare your debate so that you know each other’s points (pro/con). Each member of the group will have a role in the debate. You may use notes during the presentation but reading word for word from your paper is not acceptable. This is an opportunity to draw forth and communicate ideas from an internalized knowledge base.
