You will be working with a debate partner/group who shares the same position as you. Both you and your debate partner will be assessed based on the three components below:
Component 1: Note Taking/Research:
1. Using the book, The Outsiders, you will develop a set of Research Notes that can be used to help you argue your position. Your notes should include page number(s) indicating where your information came from.
2. During the debate you will take notes on the arguments used by your debate opponents so you may counter their arguments.
Component 2: Persuasive Writing & Reflection:
1. You will write a Thesis Statement using your research. Your Thesis should represent, in writing, the basic arguments you and your debate partner/group will use to defend your position.
2. You will write a Personal Reflection after the debate is over. The Personal Reflection will include your thoughts and impressions about this debate project.
Component 3: Oral Communication:
1. You will be expected to articulate the arguments you’ve developed for your position in a debate. Your arguments should be reasonable, using the factual information you’ve been able to get from the book. Name calling, personal attacks, yelling, and the like have no place in this debate.
2. You will be expected to listen carefully to your opponents’ arguments. Your responses to what they say are important. If you don’t listen carefully, your responses may not be as good as they might be.
Overall, your participation in the debate will be evaluated based on your ability to effectively research and take notes, present persuasive arguments in writing and orally, and listen and respond to your opponents’ arguments in a civil and respectful manner. Your Personal Reflection will also be considered in assessing your overall engagement and learning from this project. Good luck!
Component 1: Note Taking/Research:
1. Start by reading the book, The Outsiders, and take notes on relevant information that supports your position. Include page numbers to easily reference your information during the debate. For example, if your position is that the main character, Ponyboy, is a sympathetic character, you can take notes on instances where he shows vulnerability or faces hardship.
2. During the actual debate, take notes on the arguments presented by your opponents. This will help you counter their arguments effectively. Make sure to capture the main points of their arguments and any evidence they provide to support their position.
Component 2: Persuasive Writing & Reflection:
1. Develop a strong thesis statement that represents the basic arguments you and your debate partner/group will use to defend your position. For example, if your position is that the social class divide is the main theme in The Outsiders, your thesis statement could be: "The Outsiders highlights the significant impact of social class divide on characters' lives, as evident through the conflicts, relationships, and choices made throughout the novel."
2. After the debate is over, reflect on your experience. Write a personal reflection that includes your thoughts and impressions about the debate project. Discuss how well you and your partner/group worked together, any challenges you encountered, and your overall satisfaction with the debate. Additionally, reflect on the strengths and weaknesses of your arguments and how you could improve in future debates.
Component 3: Oral Communication:
1. During the debate, articulate the arguments you have developed for your position. Use the factual information you gathered from the book to support your claims. For example, if you are arguing that the rivalry between the Greasers and the Socs is a result of class differences, provide examples from the book where this conflict is evident and explain how it contributes to the theme of social class divide.
2. Pay close attention to your opponents' arguments and listen carefully. This will enable you to respond effectively and counter their points. Engage in active listening and address their arguments with relevant evidence and logical reasoning. Avoid any form of personal attacks or disrespectful behavior, as it is important to maintain a respectful and professional atmosphere during the debate.