Steps in Academic Controversy

Students:

1. Create the best case for their positions. Students thoroughly research the issue, then organize and frame logical, compelling, well-reasoned arguments.

2. Present the best case for their positions. Students present their arguments persuasively. While each side presents, the other listens, analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of the arguments.

3. Engage in open discussion. At this point, students on both sides continue to advocate for their positions while attempting to refute the evidence and the reasoning of the other side.

4. Reverse perspectives. Pairs switch sides, adopting the point of view they earlier tried to refute. The job of each pair is now to present the best case for what was previously the opposing position. In turn, they listen as the other side presents the best case for what used to be its position.

5. Synthesize. Opposing pairs join together to select the best reasoning from both positions and meld them into a new position to which all can agree. The entire group then writes a joint report explaining the synthesis, including a thesis statement, a rationale, and a conclusion.

Based on Academic Controversy.