Voicing Your Opinion
It is better to debate a question without settling it
than to settle a question without debating it.
--Joseph Joubert
than to settle a question without debating it.
--Joseph Joubert
Objectives
Focus Skillscentral claims, text details, mini research
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Activities
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Should Parents Help With Homework?Scholastic Scope, December 2014
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All Alone
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Should We Bring Back the Woolly Mammoth? |
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Debate Vocabulary
argument writing, debate, claim, counterclaim, fact vs. opinion, logical reasoning, opponent, opposition, rebuttal, refute
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Research Vocabulary
bibliography, citation, cite, digital, references, print, validate, position statement, publication date, publisher, URL, works cited
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Evaluating Text Evidence
Before reading, explain to students that some reasons for supporting an argument are stronger than others. Stronger arguments rely on logical reasoning, information that can be proven. Download the "Text Evidence" poster to display in your classroom.
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For detailed descriptions of debate activities that I created, read "Engaging Middle School Students in Space Debates" on the Scholastic Top Teaching Blog.
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Bibliography Format
The "Bibliography I-Chart" is an example that models MLA formatting for different types of sources.
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Bibliography Chart Blank
The blank "Bibliography I-Chart" to record the bibliographical information. This information cross-references with the "I-Chart Taking Notes."
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I-Chart for Taking Notes
The "I-Chart for Taking Notes" allows students to record information on one sheet rather than loose index cards.
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Google Docs and EasyBib
Support your digital natives by sharing the "Argument Research Note-Taking" Google Docs handout with your students in Google Classroom.
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Setting the Stage
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Preparing the Students
Index Cards
In preparation for the debate, students write details that support their position on index cards, citing the source.
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Review Discussion Guidelines
Fishbowl Discussion GuideReview the debate rules and guidelines with this "Fishbowl Discussions" guide.
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Short Answer ResponseThis graphic organizer introduces my sixth grade students to argument writing. Before writing essays, we work on writing an position statement that acknowledges the opposition's position on the topic, but firmly and succinctly states the writer's position.
Although or However SentencesAlthough ____________________ believes that __________ ____________, I assert that __________________________.
OR
________________ believes that ____________________; however, I assert that _______________________________.
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Contact
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News
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