SHS 103-Survey of Institutions
Debate Assignment
Due date depends on your topic
As a class, you will decide on debate topics related to public policy or human service programs. We'll use the Opposing Viewpoints series as the starting point and, in groups of about six students, you will do additional research to educate yourselves on both the pro and con side. Plan to use at least three solid sources of information in addition to Opposing Viewpoints. We will have an orientation in the library so that you can learn about electronic data bases as well as reference books and other relevant resources.
On your assigned date (debates will occur during the time we're covering a related topic) you will turn in a paper including the following information:
1.
The debate proposition and an explanation of the issue. (1 page)
2. The three strongest arguments in favor of the
proposition. Include the reasoning and evidence for this position.
(1-2 pages)
3. The three strongest arguments against the
proposition. Include the reasoning and evidence for this position.
(1-2 pages)
4. Your position, including anything that changed as a
result of your research and your reasoning. (1 page)
5. A list of your references, including author's
name, title of article, title of source, date of publication. If using
a website, include website address, link to the information within the site
and any other identifying information necessary so I can locate it.
Your paper should be word processed, 12 point font, double spaced and neatly presented.
Guidelines for reference materials
Use recently materials, especially for current policy issues.
Consider the quality and reliability of the source. Consider what the agenda of the author(s) might be.
Use the library and ask for help to find the best information to make your case.
Grading
|
0.0-1.0 |
2.0 |
3.0 |
4.0 |
|
| Participation in debate-25% |
Minimal role; unable to respond to opponent's position; student doesn't seem to understand the issue |
Participates by reading material; understands the basic issue but is unable to incorporate new information |
Takes an active role in the debate, some response to opponents' presentation |
Actively participates and demonstrates understanding of both sides of the issue |
| Organization, grammar, spelling, references-25% | Grammatical errors throughout; does not follow format requested; messy presentation; missing reference material. | Many grammatical errors that interfere with reader's understanding, mostly follows format with some disorganization; references are included but of low quality. | Some grammatical errors but paper is mostly understood; references are accurately listed and of high quality | Few grammatical errors, information flows logically, format is followed; references are accurately listed and of high quality |
| Quality of content-50% | Only one side of the issue is discussed; paper mostly represents student's opinion with little research based information; issue is discussed superficially; accuracy of information is questionable. | Format is followed; both sides of the issue are included but superficially; student demonstrates some understanding of the issue beyond personal experience and opinion. | Both sides of the issue are discussed but not fully; some statements are not fully explained; writing indicates that student understands the issue beyond her/his personal opinion and perspective. | Both sides of issue are thoroughly addressed; statements in paper are explained; supporting evidence is provided |
Format for the debates
Pro side (7 min) Opening Arguments -- state the proposition and arguments in favor of the it.
Con side (3 min) Rebuttal -- address the arguments the pro side brought up.
Pro
side (2 min) Counter -- counter the arguments the
con side gave in their rebuttal. Strengthen your case here!
Con side (7 min) Opening Arguments -- state your case against the proposition.
Pro side (3 min) Rebuttal -- address the arguments the con side brought up.
Con
side (2 min) Counter -- counter the arguments the
pro side gave in their
rebuttal. Strengthen your case here!
Pro
side (3 min) Summary -- summarize your main
arguments. Do not bring in any new
information.
Con
side (3 min) Summary -- summarize your main
arguments. Do not bring in any new information.