First Debates: Alien Invasion

Learning Objectives

  • Identify and answer opposing arguments.

  • Collaborate with squad members.

Time Needed

~45 min.

Resources & Materials

  • Paper (2-3 sheets per student)

  • Pencil/pen (1 per student)

Teacher Preparation

  • Pre-load movie trailer from Arrival (2016). This is easily available on Youtube.
  • For younger students, consider pre-writing an explanation of how each “role” should act.

Lesson Outline

  • Alien Invasion (Preparation)
    • Divide the squad into three groups. Assign each group a “role:” corporation/diplomat/military.
    • Introduce topic:
      • Show movie trailer from Arrival (or equivalent film).
      • Explain that aliens have ‘arrived,’ and that each group will need to prepare a speech to convince the President (you) how to respond, based on their role (see below):
        • Corporation: This group believes government is ineffective. Private trade, not diplomacy or force, should lead the way.
        • Diplomat: This group wants to be cautious. Diplomacy, not military force or trade, should lead the way.
        • Military: This group is concerned about national security. Military force, not trade or diplomacy, should lead the way.
  • Alien Invasion (Speeches)
    • Round 1
      • Prepare and deliver the first (constructive) speech.
      • Ask each group to select a representative to deliver a speech.
      • Give each group time to prepare a 2-3 minute speech with 2-3 arguments supporting the assigned position.
      • Flow each speech on the board. Give feedback using the ARE model.
    • Round 2
      • Prepare and deliver the second (rebuttal) speech.
        • Ask each group to select a DIFFERENT representative to deliver a speech.
        • Give each group time to prepare a medium-length (~2-3 minutes) speech ANSWERING the argument made by each opposing group.
        • Flow each speech on the board. Give feedback using the ARE model.
    • To conclude, vote for the group that makes the best arguments. Explain your reasoning (like a judge deciding a debate).

Points of Improvement

  • Students deliver excessively short or excessively long speeches.

  • Students work alone instead of with the group.

Signs of Mastery

  • Students IDENTIFY and ANSWER opposing arguments.

  • Clear use of evidence and reasoning.

Instructor Notes

  • This activity is best for older students.

  • For younger students, shorten the speech times, and eliminate the second round of speeches.

  • Embrace the roleplay. Give students the freedom to really get into it!