Unit 6: Federalism Debate
Gay Marriage: A Four Corners Debate
Overview: The purpose of a Four Corners Debate is to examine a controversial issue, to identify the arguments for and against the issue, and to challenge you to define and articulate your position. You must base your argument on evidence not emotion. You will think and move during this debate–always a bonus!
Procedures:
- The Four Corners of the room will be marked with 4 signs: strongly agree, somewhat agree, strongly disagree, somewhat disagree.
- When you enter the room, you will go to the corner that is most closely associated with your position on the issue.
- With your group, you will have 5 minutes to craft an argument in favor of your position. Better arguments will be supported by as much evidence as possible. Your purpose is to be persuasive.
- Each group has 2 minutes to make it’s argument.
- The groups will have an opportunity to question each other. This is an organized debate. You must be recognized by the moderator in order to have the floor. The questioning period will last for no more than 10 minutes.
- At this point, everyone is free to move. If you move, you must be able to articulate why.
- Each group has 5 minutes (if needed) to craft a closing statement which reiterates your position. You will need to take into account the questions and arguments presented by your peers.
- We will debrief as an entire class: What appeals made you switch positions?, Did any group use emotional appeals to make their case – if so, were they effective?, Did any speaker use unethical techniques/devices to make their case? Did any speaker have such conviction (in their delivery) that made you want to switch purely for that reason? Were any arguments made that you didn’t agree with? Can you think of additional arguments now?
Debate Topic: The Constitution of the United States should be amended to define marriage as between one man and one woman.
Your Role: You are expected to arrive in class prepared and ready for this discussion. You have read two points of view on this issue. Go back through the reading and identify the arguments for and against the two positions. Evaluate the evidence presented by both authors. Use the additional resources provided below to expand your knowledge and understanding of this issue.
Additional Resources
- FindLaw: Same Sex Marriage Resources—scroll down to the commentary section.
- You can also check out the other section’s debate site: Pro Arguments | Con Arguments
