Teacher: Liz Berges

Class: 8th Grade Social Studies

Topic: Doctor-assisted Suicide

Clip 1 or 6

Ms. Berges asks students to choose a position on the debate topic. Students stand along a spectrum to orient themselves to a more in-depth discussion.


Clip 2 or 6

Half of the class discusses their positions while the other half observes and takes notes. Observing group then comments about how the discussion was carried out: Was there reasoning and evidence? Were the target words used?


Clip 3 or 6

The two groups of students switch roles so that the observers get a chance to discuss the issue (fishbowl technique). The observing group then critiques the discussion.


Clip 4 or 6

The two groups switch roles again. Teacher asks students to try to apply counter arguments to the positions of the other students.


Clip 5 or 6

The two groups once again switch roles. Teacher asks students to try to apply counter arguments to the positions of the other students. Teacher comments on the group's use of critical thinking, argumentation, and use of the focus words.


Clip 6 or 6

A writing assignment followed the discussion this week in Ms. Berges' class.

Share by: