Web Dropin #4
SLM 521
Ginger Webb
Spring 2005
A Web Drop-In Assignment for students in an
Issues class in Grades 11 or 12.
Do
you have an opinion on the Death Penalty?
Have you ever really thought about it before?
In
this activity you will express your own opinion, evaluate some websites which
represent both sides and then decide if your opinion has changed or remains the
same. The class will be divided into
groups by the teacher. One group will be
‘For’ the Death Penalty and the other will be ‘Against’. You may be assigned to a group which is
opposite of what you believe.
Before
you begin this activity, open a new Microsoft word document and consider
through writing a few sentences what is your current opinion of the Death
Penalty. Consider what you already know
about this topic as well as whether you’ve already taken a side.
Visit
the following websites. You don’t have
to read every word on every page. Read
for a general idea of the arguments for each side of the death penalty
debate. As you read, take note of what
interests you the most. Does anything
make you angry? Do you believe the
points that are being presented? Jot
down a few notes if you have any strong reactions to any points made.
The Case Against the Death Penalty
The Death
Penalty in Your State
Now that you have done your research on
the issue, return to your document in Microsoft Word. Make a list of 5 points for and 5 points
against the Death Penalty.
Next, write a paragraph comparing your
stance on the issue before the reading activity and your stance now. Has it changed at all? Do you feel you can make a more informed
decision?
Refer to the list I have made on the
board to find out whether you are “A” or “B.”
Imagine you are going to debate the death penalty issue. If you are an “A,” write a brief introductory
speech supporting the death penalty. If
you are “B,” write a brief introductory speech against the death penalty.
When you have finished, print your work
and place it in your folder. We will
return to this activity next class period.
Feedback for this web-based assignment will
be accepted at gmwebb@k12.carr.org