Historical Figures Press Conference
Directions: You will take part in three (3) press conferences and have a different responsibility in each. The focus of each press conference will be: How effective governments should run and the responsibilities of citizens in successful societies. The press conferences will include students “in character” as selected historical figures from Ancient Greece, Ancient Rome, and the Renaissance/Enlightenment periods. Below is a brief overview of each role each student will play once:
SPEAKER- During one of the press conferences, you will be “in character.” You will be assigned a figure and you will research this individual’s viewpoints (about government and society) in preparation for the press conference. You’ll prepare an opening statement (1-2 minutes) and anticipate questions (through research) you “may” get from investigative reporters who will be challenging your ideas, looking for flaws in your ideas.
INVESTIGATIVE REPORTER- During one of the press conferences, you will be the investigative reporter. You will research the speakers in the press conference you have been assigned to “investigate” (minimum of 3) and create a list of questions for each characterchosen that “challenge” their ideas, forcing them to explain their positions more clearly or to expose flaws in arguments.
FRIENDLY REPORTER- During one of the press conferences, you are to take detailed notes on what was said and how panel members responded to challenging questions. You will write a short essay (2-3 paragraphs) explaining why a particular “character” did the “best” job sharing and defending their point of view.
On the following page, you will find an organizer to help keep you on task, as there are multiple responsibilities to keep track of and complete:
DAY #1: Research your assigned individual to get an idea of his/her views on government and people. Look into what role they played in society during their life. Take notes as you research and record your sources for later use.
DAY #2: Review your research to create the following: an opening statement that explains how effective governments should run and the responsibilities of citizens in successful societies from this individual’s viewpoint.
DAY #3: Anticipate how investigative reporters might “challenge” your viewpoints and prepare, record, and practice responses to these likely questions. In other words, look for flaws in your character’s ideas to get ready to defend.
DAY #4: Review what you have done so far and find at least one way in which you can improve your preparation.
DAY #5: Create a clear nameplate so the audience is clear on who you are as “speaker.” A symbol that represents your stance is also requested. Simple, appropriate props or being in costume are optional. If you plan on incorporating either props or costumes, prepare on this day. School uniform policies still must be followed.
DAY #6 and #7: Do research for the characters on the panel the day you are assigned to be the investigate reporter. Look for ideas that you could “challenge” for at least three (3) panel members- since you will not likely have time to ask them all.
DAY #8 and #9: Organize and practice your questions for various individuals who are on the panel when you are an investigative reporter.
DAY #10: Review what you have done so far and find at least one way in which you can improve your preparation.
DAY #11: Make sure you have completed the following tasks:
a)Written (typed or neatly handwritten) opening statement [speaker]
b)A list of questions you think investigative reporters might ask you and your responses [speaker]
c)A nameplate (with symbol) that will clearly identify your character at your press conference [speaker]
d)A list of labeled questions for each member of the panel chosen-that you’ll be a reporter for [investigative reporter]
NOTE: Your friendly reporter reflection can’t occur until the group you’ve been assigned to be the friendly reporter for, goes!