AP Government Debate Format 2002

AP Government Debate Format Summer 2015

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)  Increase the number (435) of members in the House (June 30) Pro: Charlie and Jamila Con: Joey, Ivan, and Garrett

2)  Implementing congressional term limits (July 1) For: Jessica and Zach Con: Samantha and Jerry

3)  Implementation of one 6 year term for the President (July 1) For: William and Trevor Con: Samuel and Daniel

4)  Federal government should approve the Keystone XL pipeline (July 2) Pro: Justin and Carl Con: Evan and Cammy

5)  Implementation of the War Powers Act (July 2) For: Eva and Xochi Con: Louis and Gilbert

6)  USA Patriot Act (July 6) For: Andrew & Andreas Con: Ezra, Victoria, and Lauren

7)  Bring back the line item veto (July 6) For: Paulina and Sarah Con: Fiona and Chuang