Name_____________________________________
H US History
Period_________
Ms. Elshakhs
Research Paper Debates
Honors U.S. History
I. ASSIGNMENT:
A. Students will debate topics that were researched in their papers.
B. The assignment will be part of the Tests / Large Research Projects category.
C. The dates of the debates are: May 24th (Monday) – May 27th (Thursday)
II. FORMAT:
A. Each individual will argue a position with respect to their topic, and will counter and question
the student representing the opposing position.
1. The format of the debate will be as follows:
Pro
-2 minutes to argue
-2 minutes questioned
Con
-2 minutes to argue
-2 minutes questioned
Pro
-1 minute for
final statement
Con
-1 minute for
final statement
2. The topics being debated on a given day will be randomly selected, so all students must be prepared
to debate on Monday May 27th.
III. EVALUATION:
A. Typed Self-Evaluation (20 points)(1 page minimum, 12 pt font, double-spaced) (Due Date: the day
after you debate) The self-evaluation will have no bearing on your 40pt. debate grade. It is a
separate assignment, in which you are expected to give a specific, thorough, honest reflection on your
own performance.
B. Debate (60 points)
1. 15 points for 2 minutes opening argument
2. 15 points for response to questions
3. 15 points for questions asked
4. 15 points for final statement
C. Annotated Works Cited: (20 points) (Due Date: Friday, May 14th) Your updated works cited must
be annotated, with at least two sentences for each source, describing what value each source has to
offer, and why you believe it is a credible and useful source. The Works Cited requires a minimum
of 10 sources, at least 4 of which were published in the past two months.
D. See the evaluation sheet as to how you will be assessed during the debate. Each student
will be judged on validity of argument, style and interest level of presentation, and
effectiveness in debate.
E. Students are only allowed to use one 5x8 Note card (double-sided) when debating –
NO READING ALLOWED!!