Hello everybody! I hope you are all enjoying this beautiful weekend weather. I can't remember the last time it was this warm and sunny during November. I'm sure you were all in the library or online looking up sources for your argumentative essay but I hope you got out and enjoyed a little bit of the sunshine and warm weather!
On Tuesday we will be discussing the characteristics of a good debate. Remember our topic: Is capital punishment (the death penalty) an ethical way to punish criminals? You have already been divided into your teams and positions. Before class, I would like you all to do some light reading so that you came prepared to talk about the subject.
I would like everyone to read this famous article about the death penalty written by a former mayor of New York City, Edward Koch. It's a good overview of the topic.
Next, I would like you to review the list of pros and cons from the following website. Be sure to know and understand the arguments for your side of the debate and also familiarize yourself with the arguments of the opposing side so that you can make counterarguments and refutations.
Finally, please review the issues listed in this link. It deals specifically with the morality of capital punishment, which is the actual question we will be debating. Again, make sure you know and understand the arguments for your side as well as the opposing argument. Judges: It is important you understand both sides of this argument very well. After all, you will be deciding the winner!
Please come to class prepared to talk about these issues. Remember, the debate will not take place until Thursday, but we are going to talk about debate procedures and strategies in class on Tuesday, so it's necessary that you come prepared with a working knowledge of the topic. As always, please let me know if you have any questions! Enjoy the rest of your weekend!
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