Modern America: Cold War Debate
Assigned: September 8
Debate: September 15
Worth: 50 points
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Resolution: The Soviet Union was solely responsible for starting the Cold War.
Assignment: Small teams will argue for or against adopting the resolution. Each
team must divvy up responsibilities and every group member is expected to actively
participate. Arguments should be constructed from readings and individual
research. Students may use direct quotations and primary sources are encouraged.
Each debater is required to turn in at least 10 referenced points and a bibliography.
The debate will follow the following format –

(10 min.) Team meeting


(5 min.) Affirmative introduction
(5 min.) Negative cross-examination


(5 min.) Negative introduction
(5 min.) Affirmative cross-examination


(2 min.) Negative cross-examination
(2 min.) Affirm cross-examination


(5min.) Neg. closing
(5 min.) Affirm. Closing
Students will be graded on the following criteria:
Needs imp. (0-4)
Participation
Sophistication of
research
10 cited arguments
Mechanics
Bibliography
Satisfactory (5-7)
Excellent (8-10)