Activity 1

Activity 1a: Debating the Issues

The simplest activity for the teacher is to set up a debate surrounding one of the eight issues identified above. Students could be divided into groups with each group being assigned an issue and subgroups taking the “for” or “against” position on the statement.

Activity 1b: Writing About the Issues

The teacher may also assign students one of the eight topics to research and requiring them to present a balanced view of the issues in a short response essay.

Activity 1c: Mapping the Positions

To promote the organization of ideas and critical thinking, the teacher may assign students a Venn diagram to label the perspectives on the issue. This graphic organizer will work great for your visual learners!

Venn Diagram

• Ideas supporting the statement
• Ideas not supporting the statement
• Undecided: I need to research