Topic

Your Name
Your Class
Date

Overview
In a short paragraph, introduce the
topic. Briefly explain why there is
controversy or disagreement about
the topic.

Issues
List the key points of controversy.

Timeline
Identify the events or trends that led
to controversy.
Were there any important dates or
turning points in the debate over this
issue?

Opposing Sides
Describe the "for" and "against"
sides in the issue.

Opposing Views
Describe the key arguments from
each sides point of view.
What do the different sides hope to
achieve?
What are the extreme points of view?

Develop Your Position

Explain why one viewpoint is more
credible to you than the other.
Are there some areas where you
think there should be no compromise
on the position?
Are there other areas where you
think trade-offs are possible?

Discussion Questions for the

Class
Where do individuals in the class
stand on the debate topic?
Were they persuaded by your
arguments? Why or why not?

Information Sources
Web sites
Include organizations for each side .
Articles or opinion pieces
Include articles for each point of
view.
Other sources
Cite quotations from leaders of both
sides.