Courting Controversy?

Students explore the ideologies of the American political spectrum. In this American politics lesson plan, students examine the characteristics and platforms of liberals, conservatives, libertarians, and moderates.  Students complete the...

Explore the Declaration of Independence in this US History lesson. Middle schoolers compare and contrast viewpoints of the Loyalists and the Patriots as they discuss the issue of colonial independence from Britain. They present support...

Middle and high schoolers are walking into a world rife with strong political viewpoints and vocal opinions. Help to prepare them for controversial discussions with a instructional activity in which they choose, research, and learn more...

Connect art to social issues with a extended inquiry project. Individuals or small groups select a social issue and a type of art to explore. They complete a KWL chart for both the social issue and the art strand and take time to create...

Hot topics are often engaging and can get heated. High School young scholars engage in an academic discussion were they must learn to engage with a person holding a different view than their own. They practice discussing different...

SAC is a specific approach to discussing history and controversial issues. Rather than adhering to an either/or debate-style paradigm, it fosters speaking and constructivist listening to enable learners to build consensus through...

Students examine the history of the National parks. In groups, they discuss the concepts of conservation and preservation. They discuss the use of natural resources and how some are renewable and non-renewable. To end the lesson, they...

Students consider guidelines for participation in classroom discussions. In this Socratic discussion instructional activity, students agree to the rules presented and set forth to ensure healthy debate regarding controversial issues.

Suggested topics for a role play debate include school uniforms and culpability for drunk driving, but any issue of interest to your class will work. What are the hot issues in your community or on the news right now? Class members...

Abortion has remained a highly controversial issue ever since the landmark 1973 Roe v. Wade decision. Using the website, learners sift through all the information they need to participate in a debate about the topic. They learn about the...