LEARNING OBJECTIVES

Read opposing viewpoints and take a side; describe the value civil discourse has in the classroom and in our lives

HEALTH ED STANDARDS

NHES 4: Use skills for communicating effectively with family, peers, and others to foster positive relationships

CASEL COMPETENCY: Social awareness; relationship skills

KEY VOCAB

contentious, polarizing, perspectives, ostracized

Lesson Plan: Is it OK to Talk Politics in Class?

Some school administrators say political talk is too controversial for the classroom. Are they right? Two Choices advisers weigh in.

ESSENTIAL QUESTION

How can I maintain positive relationships when tough conversations come up?

 CLOSE-READING QUESTIONS

  1. Why does Vyshnavi Viju think that discussing politics in class is a good thing? Vyshnavi thinks it is a positive thing, because you can learn a lot from classmates who have different views.
  2. Why does Rani Chor disapprove of discussing politics in class? Rani thinks that discussing politics can cause tension between classmates. She says that some students prefer school to be an escape from politics.
  3. What are two conversation moves you should avoid when talking with someone who disagrees with you? When discussing tough topics with someone whose view opposes yours, you should avoid interrupting and saying snarky things that could insult the other person.

 CRITICAL-THINKING QUESTIONS

  1. Do you approve or disapprove of discussing politics in class? Explain your reasoning. Answers will vary.
  2. Is it ever OK to get upset when discussing an issue with someone who disagrees with you? Explain your reasoning. Answers will vary.
  3. Provide at least two strategies for avoiding unnecessary conflict in a discussion with someone whose views differ from yours, whether online or IRL. Possible answers: I avoid posting online about divisive topics. In real life, if someone is being confrontational or unreasonable, I pleasantly change the subject.

CLASSROOM ACTIVITIES

SELF-QUIZ

NHES 4

CASEL Competency: Self-awareness; relationship skills

Politics, in school or otherwise, doesn’t always have to involve debating hot-button issues in an open forum. Have students take the quiz “WHAT ARE YOUR CIVIC ENGAGEMENT STRENGTHS?” Then hold a class discussion about students’ favorite civic engagement ideas. (Click here to see all your Skill Builders.)

ADVOCACY IN ACTION

NHES 4,8

CASEL Competency: Social awareness; relationship skills

For many students, an election that occurs during their high school years will be a chance to articulate their own political beliefs in a safe space. In this extension activity, have students plan and deliver a CIVIL DISCOURSE PRESENTATION to promote responsible civil discourse wherever it happens. (Click here to see all your Skill Builders.)

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