Group members role play state legislators, supporters of and opponents to the The DREAM Act (Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors). After listening to the arguments put forth for and against the immigration legislation, those acting as legislators vote on the proposed law. The activity ends with a full class debriefing of the activity.

Concepts

immigration, emigration, migration, refugees, the united states constitution, debate, the legislative process

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Additional Tags

social studies

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Instructional Ideas

• Have groups research the history of The DREAM Act, why it failed to pass in 2010, the strategies used to block the legislation, and current actions and legislation that influence the status of undocumented immigrants and their children
• Invite immigration attorneys to share their experiences with the class

Classroom Considerations

• Establish a protocol for a respectful discussion of controversial issues
• Although the resource predates the 2010 voting on the DREAM Act, the activity is still of value, especially current immigration controversies

Pros

• The seven-page packet includes a handout that includes information about The DREAM Act and the rationale of why groups support and are opposed to it, and a handout that details group roles

Cons

• No rubric is included for the activity

Common Core

RH.9-10.1 RH.9-10.2 RH.11-12.1 RH.11-12.2