Formal Group Debates

This is a formal debate assignment adapted from David M. Leuser, Ph.D. (http://oz.plymouth.edu/~davidl/bu342/Debates.DOC). I primarily used the assignment in my AP English Language and Composition course, but it could easily be adapted to other areas. The debate is a group assignment. The instructor supplies a topic and assigns students to either the pro side or the con side. They then have to piece together an effective argument that includes a claim, evidence, rebuttal, and conclusion. The packet includes clear instructions, audience evaluation ballot (2 formats), teacher notes handout, and teacher rubric. In my own classroom, I allow students to work in a group of four. I have four debates a quarter, so students may choose one of the four topics and their position.