AP Government Debate Format 2017
Institutions of the National Government
(50 points possible)
Debate Format:
1. Opening arguments: Each group will be given a maximum of 3 uninterrupted minutes to present their perspectives.
2. Presentation of arguments: Each group will have an opportunity to debate their opponents. Once your opponent begins to speak, you may not interrupt that person until he or she is done.
You will each take turns presenting your views.
3. Questions from the audience: The class and the teacher may ask you questions about your presentation.
4. Closing arguments: Each group will have a maximum of 3 uninterrupted minutes to present their closing arguments.
You must turn in a 4 page typed essay. I would advise you to divide the essay into two parts with each student doing one of the parts. You could have one person write the opening arguments and the positive arguments of your topic. The other student could write negative arguments of your opponents and the closing statement. Your essay must meet the following requirements:
- No Extreme Margins,
- No Extreme fonts,
- Four different sources in your bibliography
Possible topics:
1) California Proposition 20 (2010) – Redistricting (February 23) Pro: Joey + Kirk; Con: Tom + Bryan
2) Increase the number (435) of members in the House (February 24) Pro: Jeff X + Allen; Con: Kevin + Matt
3) Implementing congressional term limits (February 27) Pro: Colin + Brennan; Con: Jerry + Jasper
4) Implementation of one 6 year term for the President (February 28) Pro: Silvia and PeiYao; Con: Kenneth + Vivian
5) Federal government approval of the Keystone XL pipeline (March 1) Pro: Ethan + John; Con: Sherry + Jay
6) Implementation of the War Powers Act (March 2) Pro: Josh + Ethan; Con: Samantha + Cameron
7) USA Patriot Act (March 3) Pro: Emily + Wesley; Con: Jamie + Melody
8) Bring back the line item veto (March 6) Pro: Nicholas + Kaden; Con: Vincent + David