I think this type of lesson can be very effective in starting students on the path of evaluating an issue from multiple sides. It is a really good idea. My concern is what happens when all the students begin to follow one line of thinking. Are you prepared to provide the opposing argument for the entire class? If so, will your position of authority be what they react to, or will it only be your articulation of the arguments? Just a thought. - Michael
Great questions Michael. I am the type to enjoy being the "devil's advocate" to generate more passion into the conversation from all sides. I like to think the repor built with my class would allow my students to stay assertive with their opinions/beliefs.
Good point Michael. Christopher, I think you did a good job of setting up the direction of the lesson. Being willing to play devil's advocate is helpful. I think another option would be to split the class in half (like in a debate class) and each side would have to split up into smaller groups to find the "for" and "against" sides of the topic. Then they could take turns speaking up through "spokespersons" from each smaller group on either side. (Hope that was comprehensible.)
I think this type of lesson can be very effective in starting students on the path of evaluating an issue from multiple sides. It is a really good idea. My concern is what happens when all the students begin to follow one line of thinking. Are you prepared to provide the opposing argument for the entire class? If so, will your position of authority be what they react to, or will it only be your articulation of the arguments? Just a thought. - Michael
ReplyDeleteGreat questions Michael. I am the type to enjoy being the "devil's advocate" to generate more passion into the conversation from all sides. I like to think the repor built with my class would allow my students to stay assertive with their opinions/beliefs.
ReplyDeleteGood point Michael. Christopher, I think you did a good job of setting up the direction of the lesson. Being willing to play devil's advocate is helpful. I think another option would be to split the class in half (like in a debate class) and each side would have to split up into smaller groups to find the "for" and "against" sides of the topic. Then they could take turns speaking up through "spokespersons" from each smaller group on either side. (Hope that was comprehensible.)
ReplyDeleteI'm thinking Michael's Debate strategy would be effective here as well. Some students will enjoy "arguing" with the teacher!
ReplyDelete