The Post-War World: Middle East Debates

 

Perhaps the most interesting aspect of studying history is how different conclusions can be drawn by examining the same events. The ability to analyze data, form an opinion on a controversial issue, and clearly defend that interpretation with evidence is a vital skill.

 

Assignment: Students will research a controversial issue concerning the Middle East since World War II. They will organize their research in preparation to debate their issue in front of the class.  Both the topic AND the side being argued will be chosen randomly.

 

Debate Procedure:     1) Introductions (Agree followed by Disagree)

                                    2) Agree’s first argument, followed by Disagree’s rebuttal; Agree

can respond if desired.

                                    3) Disagree’s first argument, followed by Agree’s rebuttal; Disagree

can respond if desired.

                                    4) Repeat steps 2 and 3 as necessary.

                                    5) Conclusions (Agree followed by Disagree)

 

                                    Debates will last for 8 minutes MAX.

 

Fact Sheet: Each student will also submit a “Fact Sheet”, summarizing the following

  • A description of your interpretation of the issue
  • The evidence that supports your argument
  • Arguments that you expect your opponents to make, including your planned defence.

 

Bibliography: Each student will submit a formal bibliography in MLA format of all books and electronic sources consulted.

 

Notes: Each student will take point-form notes while their classmates are debating.  Notes will be collected and checked for completion.

 

Debate Statements:   1.Britain is responsible for the creation of Israel

                                    2. Israel’s military policy is defensive in nature.

                                    3. The Suez Crisis represents a defeat of European imperialism.

                                    4. The Iranian Revolution of 1979 was more about economics

                                                than religion.

                                    5. History shows that the Arab world is more divided than united.

                                    6. Western cultural influence in the Middle East is getting stronger.

                                    7. The Taliban were un-Islamic.

                                    8. The Arab world has abandoned the Palestinian people.

                                    9. The United Nations should intervene in the Middle East to create

                                                a Kurdish homeland.

                                    10. The people of Israel are committed to the ideas of Zionism.

                                    11. Saddam Hussein is a war criminal.

                                    12. Turkey has more in common with Europe than it does the

Middle East.