TEAM ASSIGNMENTS!!!

To see an example of debate: 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mi_CSGZqOCM

• You will be assigned a topic and a team. 

• For a couple of weeks, your team will research your topic, preparing to slash the other team to ribbons with your factual points and witty repartee.

• On the day of the event, you will be assigned which side of the issue you will be defending.

• At the conclusion of the debate each team will present a bibliography of sources used, in MLA format.

The event will follow the following schedule:

• Preparation - 5 minutes

• Opening statements - 1 minute each team

• Positions - 3 minutes each team

• Rebuttals - 1 minute each team

• Closing statements - 1 minute each team

Topics will revolve around concepts in Physical Science and may include:

• Global warming

• Ozone depletion

• Value of manned trips to Mars

• Water rights issues

• Effects of pollution

• Future of energy supply

Other questions adapted from http://www.sciencedebate2008.com/www/index.php?id=42

• Innovation. Science and technology have been responsible for half of the growth of the American economy since WWII. But several recent reports question America’s continued leadership in these vital areas.  What should we do to insure continued gains and preeminence in science and technology.

• Climate Change.  The Earth’s climate is changing and there is concern about the potentially adverse effects of these changes on life on the planet. What is your position on the following measures that have been proposed to address global climate change—a cap-and-trade system, a carbon tax, increased fuel-economy standards, or research? 

• Energy.  Many policymakers and scientists say energy security and sustainability are major problems facing the United States this century. What policies would you support to meet demand for energy while ensuring an economically and environmentally sustainable future?

• Education.  A comparison of 15-year-olds in 30 wealthy nations found that average science scores among U.S. students ranked 17th, while average U.S. math scores ranked 24th.  What role do you think the federal government should play in preparing K-12 students for the science and technology driven 21st Century?

• National Security.  Science and technology are at the core of national security like never before.  What is your view of how science and technology can best be used to ensure national security and where should we put our focus?

• Ocean Health.  Scientists estimate that some 75 percent of the world’s fisheries are in serious decline and habitats around the world like coral reefs are seriously threatened. What steps, if any, should the United States take during your presidency to protect ocean health?

• Water. Thirty-nine states expect some level of water shortage over the next decade, and scientific studies suggest that a majority of our water resources are at risk.  What policies would you support to meet demand for water resources?

• Space.  The study of Earth from space can yield important information about climate change; focus on the cosmos can advance our understanding of the universe; and manned space travel can help us inspire new generations of youth to go into science.  Can we afford all of them?  How would you prioritize space in your administration?

• Scientific Integrity. Many government scientists report political interference in their job.  Is it acceptable for elected officials to hold back or alter scientific reports if they conflict with their own views, and how will you balance scientific information with politics and personal beliefs in your decision-making?

• Research. For many years, Congress has recognized the importance of science and engineering research to realizing our national goals.  Given that the next Congress will likely face spending constraints, what priority would you give to investment in basic research in upcoming budgets?

Levels of Performance

Criteria

1

2

3

4

1. Organization and Clarity: viewpoints and responses are outlined both clearly and orderly.

Unclear in most parts

Clear in some parts but not over all

Most clear and orderly in all parts

Completely clear and orderly presentation

2. Use of Arguments: reasons are given to support viewpoint.

Few or no relevant reasons given

Some relevant reasons given

Most reasons given: most relevant

Most relevant reasons given in support

3. Use of Examples and Facts: examples and facts are given to support reasons.

Few or no relevant supporting examples/facts

Some relevant examples/facts given

Many examples/facts given: most relevant

Many relevant supporting examples and facts given

4. Use of Rebuttal: arguments made by the other teams are responded to and dealt with effectively.

No effective counter-arguments made

Few effective counter-arguments made

Some effective counter-arguments made

Many effective counter-arguments made

5. Presentation Style: tone of voice, use of gestures, and level of enthusiasm are convincing to audience.

Few style features were used; not convincingly

Few style features were used convincingly

All style features were used, most convincingly

All style features were used convincingly