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Designed to develop proficiency in the specific critical-thinking skills required in collegefreshman classes, this course focuses on the reading, writing, and discussing more complex nonfictional texts than those previously encountered in high school. The objectives of this course include developing proficiency in the formal debate format, developing articulation and organization of ideas in cogent and meaningful writing and discussion, and presenting debates using relevant and well researched topics from the social, cultural, academic, and political communities. The course includes a research project in which students will answer a question, solve a problem, or present a stance on a controversial topic by gathering, evaluating, and synthesizing information from multiple print and digital sources.
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The following is a list of proficiencies that describe what students are expected to know and be able to do as a result of successfully completing this course. The proficiencies are the basis of the assessment of student achievement. The learner will demonstrate the ability to:
1.
Understand and apply the theoretical background of academic debate and argument. (SL.11-
12.1)
2.
Understand and apply the history of argumentative analysis and logical fallacy. (SL.11-12.1)
3.
Use the writing process (prewriting, drafting, conferencing, revising, editing and publishing) for a formal position paper. (L.11-12.3)
4.
Employ comparison/contrast, cause/effect, and persuasive opinions to topics in the writing process. (W.11-12.1)
5.
Summarize clearly and accurately the ideas of others included in the closing arguments of a formal debate. (SL.11-12.3)
6.
Write a position paper that synthesizes and cites data. (W.11-12.1)
7.
Compare and contrast non-fiction text, essays, and editorials representative of an eclectic range of cultural and social perspectives. (SL.11-12.1)
8.
Recognize oral and written communication devices such as rhetorical device, logical fallacy, and jargon and replicate these devices in discussion and debate formats.(SL.11-12.2)
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Demonstrate acquisition and application of appropriate language related to topics and forum for performance based assessment (i.e. jargon used in litigation, cultural dialect in sociological essays and texts). (L.11-12.6)
10.
Develop and demonstrate listening strategies by asking relevant questions, taking notes, making predictions, and reflecting on ideas. (SL.11-12.1)
11.
Listen to a variety of speakers for the purpose of evaluating content and presentation for subjectivity, credibility, and persuasion. (SL.11-12.3)
12.
Use speaking techniques which include effective eye contact, voice modulation, appropriate body gestures, volume, intonation, and articulation. (SL.11-12.4)
REVISED DRAFT on 8/7/13

13.
Participate in class discussion by offering original ideas and conclusions or extending peer contributions by elaboration and illustration. (SL.11-12.1)
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In discussion and/or debate, support, modify, or refute a position based on effective use of organizational strategies and delivery strategies. (SL.11-12.3) (SL.11-12.4)
15.
Recognize need and make appropriate modification in oral communications based on audience response by making impromptu revisions in oral presentation (i.e. summarizing, restating, adding details, and providing illustrations). (SL.11-12.6)
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Apply listening skills to evaluate the credibility of a speaker, make judgments, develop sensitivity and empathy, and form opinions. (SL.11-12.1)
17.
Support argumentative positions related to role in debate. (SL.11-12.4)
18.
Use appropriate print and electronic media texts to explore cultural behavior (i.e. racial prejudice, dating, marriage, family and social institutions). (SL.11-12.5)
19.
Use rubrics to self assess and assess peers to improve debate/ discussion techniques.
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The evaluation of student achievement in this course is based on the following:
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Research Projects
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Position Papers
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Expository Essays (argumentative, persuasive)
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Teacher made tests
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Debate (formal and informal)
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Participation in cooperative activities
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Participation in analytical, critical thinking discussion
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Mid-Term Exam
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Final Exam
REVISED DRAFT on 8/7/13