The Balance Debate
Module 1, Activity 3.3 - Equity
Student Page
(teacher lesson for this page)

Activities:

Task One - Reading
To introduce yourself to diversity, watch the video of Saskatoon Star-Phoenix reporter Betty Ann Adam discussing the role of ethnic diversity in journalism. Read either the article entitled Cultural and Racial Diversity in Broadcast Journalism or or the one called Ethnic and Visible Minorities in the News. When you have completed reading the article, write a summary of the main points.

Task Two - Learning about informal debate
In the process of learning about informal debate, you will do three things. First, you will learn about clash. Next you will practice clash. Finally, you will learn the basic structure of an informal debate.

Clash is the direct opposition of one argument to another:

Point: Abortions are bad because the fetus dies, and it is wrong for a baby to die.

Clash: The mother may die if the fetus does not, and it is wrong for the mother to die.

All debate, whether formal or informal, is about the clash. The way to win a debate is to clash with all the arguments of the other side. In order to do this, you need to practice creating a flow sheet.

A flow sheet is a place where arguments you hear are written down. The arguments of the people on the other side (opponents) are what you write as you listen. You put those arguments in the them column. Then you write what you will say in the us column.

The chart below is a sample flow chart from a debate. The first speaker has already spoken, and her points are recorded under the them heading. Using the chart below, think about what you would say in response to what the first speaker said. Remember your argument needs to directly attack an opposing argument.

Objectives:

You will be able to
- listen with purpose and concern for ideas
- understand the concepts of stereotyping and ethnocentrism
- speak to share thoughts, opinions, and feelings

Task Two Continued. . .
Now that you know the basics of how to plan clash, you need to practice flow charting a speech.

Listen to the speech and make yourself a flow chart. When you are done, check your work by viewing a completed chart. Keep in mind that there are many things you might put under the us category. As a result, responses in the category will vary.

Task Three - Debating Equity Practice
For this task, you will be completing an informal debate. Not sure what a debate is? Check below.

Steps to prepare:
1. Choose one side of the topic (your teacher may assign you a side).

2. Read materials that relate to your side, and write down main points. When you are looking for information on the internet, be sure to conduct an effective search.

3. Decide what the main arguments against your side will be. Prepare how you will respond.

What happens in an informal debate:

The class divides into two groups and the moderator sits between them. The moderator controls who talks, and tries to balance how often each person does. The moderator alternates between the two sides when she is selecting who speaks.

The topic for your informal debate should relate to stereotyping and ethnocentrism in the media. As a class you need to agree on the exact wording of your topic (resolution) before you start preparing. The people who agree with the resolution are called the affirmative, and those who disagree are the negative.

People contribute to the debate by making a point or asking a question. Points that directly clash with a point raised by the opponent are better than points that do not directly clash. Each person must make at least 3 points, but may make more.