Deliberation on the Mongol Impact on China

Structured Academic Controversy

Position 1: Yes, the Mongols were, on the whole, good for China.

Position 2: No, the Mongols were, on the whole, bad for China.

Time allotted Activity

20 – 30 minutes NOTE: BECAUSE YOU ARE VERY ABLE STUDENTS, I HAD YOU = YOUR OWN
RESEARCH. WITH LESS ABLE STUDENTS, I MAY PROVIDE READINGS AND
SOURCES FOR THEM.
1) Each student will read and evaluate their given material individually, taking notes and
underlining important ideas. Then, pairs will come together to compare notes and prepare
points to defend their position.

2 minutes 2) Position 1 will present their views and arguments. Position 2 will listen QUIETLY to
the views and arguments given and will WRITE DOWN points they feel are important.

2 minutes 3) Position 2 will present their views and arguments. Position 1 will listen QUIETLY to
the views and arguments given and will WRITE DOWN points they feel are important.

5 minutes 4) The two positions will clarify the arguments made. For example, you can ask that a
particular point be repeated, clarified, or further explained. This is a time for
QUESTIONING AND CLARIFYING, not ARGUING.

5 minutes 5) Teams will switch positions: teams will physically stand up and switch seats. Teams
will look over their notes and prepare several important points to support their new
position. NEW ARGUMENTS should be constructed if at all possible.

2 minutes 6) New position 2 will present their views and arguments. Position 1 will listen
QUIETLY to the views and arguments given and will WRITE DOWN points they feel are
important.

2 minutes 7) New position 1 will present their views and arguments. Position 2 will listen
QUIETLY to the views and arguments given and will WRITE DOWN points they feel are
important.

5 minutes 8) The two positions will clarify the arguments made. For example, you can ask that a
particular point be repeated, clarified, or further explained. This is a time for
QUESTIONING AND CLARIFYING, not ARGUING.

20 minutes 9) Teams will drop the assigned positions and try to reach a CONSENSUS. What
changes, if any, should be made to US gun control laws? Teams should generate
alternatives and then choose one, thereby developing an understandable and practical
course of action. If after twenty minutes you cannot reach consensus, then you will be
asked to identify the important value(s) which are dividing you.