The Great Weather Debate

Steps to
Achieve a Successful Debate

Please, review the steps below before you start.  The estimated time for completing this activity is two weeks so please plan accordingly.

1.  You will research during class and on your own time using the websites and handouts given below.  Gather your facts, and the facts the opposing side may use carefully. Read the rubric and scoring sheet shown below.

2. Below you will see listed websites on Global Warming, weather change, weather as a business, and how to have a successful debate. There are handouts on grading, how to organize your debate and background information on the greenhouse effect. Explore each website and read all the handouts.

3.  You will then step into the role of a scientist, meteorologist, storm chaser or community member to further define Global Warming from your perspective and begin to develop your own opinions on the issue. Choose a side and notify your teacher of your choice. Be aware and well informed on all the topics presented in the websites, you may be asked to switch sides by your teacher!

4.  Once your teams are approved by your teacher, elect a team leader. Arrange regularly scheduled team meetings.

5.  After reading the handout on what your team members might do assign each member a duty. Team leaders should assist with this. 

6.  Students will then meet together at designated times to develop a cohesive argument for the debate using each of their three major points and the points of others.  They will also work together to make flyers and signs to bring to the debate to further their cause. 

7.  A debate worksheet will be filled out and passed in by all to help you learn and organize your debating skills. Each student's debate worksheet must be approved by the teacher before continuing.

8.  An organized debate about Global Warming will be held in front of your class.

9.  You will then write a paper in your own words to be handed in which reflects on what you have learned.

10. Feedback evaluations will be filled out by the entire class and passed in.

11. Grading will be determined by the rubric, and scoring sheets.