Debate 2008-2009
*Teacher: Alexandra Hawksford
*Room: 2229
*Prep Time: 11:14 - 12:02 (M-Th); 11:34 - 12:17 (F)
*Phone: 651-325-2537 (w) *E-Mail: alexandra.hawksford@spps.org *Courses: English 8 Pre-AP/IB Prep
8th grade Debate
Supplies:
1 notebook for vocabulary, journaling and note taking; 1 expanding
portable file; 1+ package of 4x6 note cards; highlighters; scissors;
glue
Expectations: Students are expected to conduct
research outside of class time using libraries and electronic media and
maintain a database file. Students will build cases and/or positions
which they are expected to refine. Students must participate in
in-class debates. Participation in at least one after-school debate is
required. Students will also demonstrate use of task management skills
that include: resource and time management, perseverance, and teamwork.
In addition, students will be expected to keep notes and write personal reflections on a variety of topics. One novel, Phoenix Rising by Karen Hesse, will be read 1st semester. We will also read “Twelve Angry Men” by Reginald Rose.
**Parent Involvement**
To
make our debate program a great one, we can use your help. In addition
to providing time and transportation to the library for your child and
after-school debates, let us know if you can help with one or more of
the following: *Selecting library books/publications
for classroom use (pick up and deliver)
* Arranging for field trips (Alternative Energy related or courtroom related)
* Speakers
* Judging after-school debates
* Other: Let us know how you might be of help
~~Capitol Hill Debate Showcase: Tuesday, December 2nd (6:00 - 8:00)~~
National Debate topic for 2008-2009
Resolved: The United States federal government should substantially increase alternative energy incentives in the United States.
Under
this broad heading our students, as novices, will be expected to debate
on the following topics. These novice topics are subject to change.
1. Energy: Wind PowerIncentive: Increase the production tax credit for wind
2. Energy: Solar Photovoltaic CellsIncentive: Increase the production tax credit for solar
3. Energy: EthanolIncentive: Increase the renewable fuel standard
4. Energy: Hydrogen-powered vehiclesIncentive: The federal fleet purchases will include hydrogen vehicles
My
two debate classes will learn a little about each of these areas and
then narrow our scope to three of these novice topics.
========================================================== *Syllabus is
subject to change *
Sept. 2 - 5: Vocab. Unit 1; The Nature of Debate; Selecting research partners; Topic analysis; Opinion articles
Sept.
8 - 12: Vocab. Unit 2; Debate format; Stock Issues; Begin research;
Examining the topic - What are alternative energy issues?; Definitions
Sept.
15 - 19: Vocab. Unit 3; Writing evidence cards; Building and Writing
Affirmative cases; Introduction to the Alternative Energy Topic
Sept. 22 - Sept. 26: Vocab. Unit 4; Presenting arguments; Cross examination; Rebuttals; Negative issues; Viewing a debate
Sept. 29 - Oct. 3: Vocab. Unit 5; Due: 1st Affirmative Case per partnership; Presentation of select affirmatives; Flowing
Oct. 6 - 10: Vocab. Unit 6; Flowing tips (abbrev.) and practice; Judging and ballots
Oct. 13 - 17: MEA; negative strategies
Oct. 20 - 24: Vocab. Unit 7; Due: 2nd Affirmative Case per partnership
Oct. 27 - Oct. 31: Vocab. Unit 8; Improving and enhancing cases and presentations
Nov. 3 - 7: Vocabulary review test - Units 1-8; Due: 3rd Affirmative Case per partnership
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