Debate in Science Education
Questions we NEVER Heard During this Unit:
"Why do we need to learn this?"
"When will I ever use this in real life?"
From the 2016 Science and Technology/Engineering Education Vision:
For all students we will focus on Engagement, Relevance, Rigor, and Coherence.
For all students we hold the goals of Civic Participation, College Preparation, and Career Readiness.
ELA Standards: Writing Standards for Literacy in Content Areas (8th grade):
“Write arguments (e.g., essays, letters to the editor, advocacy speeches) to support claims with clear reasons and relevant evidence.
a. Introduce claim(s), acknowledge and distinguish the claim(s) from alternate or opposing claims, and organize the reasons and evidence logically in paragraphs and sections.
b. Support claim(s) with logical reasoning and relevant evidence, using accurate, credible sources and demonstrating an understanding of the topic or text.
c. Use words, phrases, and clauses to create cohesion and clarify the relationships among claim(s), counterclaims, reasons, and evidence.
d. Establish and maintain a style appropriate to audience and purpose (e.g., formal for academic writing).
e. Provide a concluding statement or section that follows from and supports the argument presented.”
Speaking and Listening Standard 4
Present claims and findings, emphasizing salient points in a focused, coherent manner with relevant evidence, sound valid reasoning, and well-chosen details; use appropriate vocabulary, eye contact, adequate volume, and clear pronunciation. (See grade 8 Language standards 4–6 for specific expectations regarding vocabulary.)
