About This Lesson
Is the United States' democracy healthy? This activity includes a deliberation reading and glossary, as well as accompanying handouts to give students additional information on the topic and to guide them through the deliberation process from planning to reflection.
Deliberation teaches people how to discuss controversial issues by carefully considering multiple perspectives and searching for consensus. In preparation for deliberations, all participants read common, balanced background information on the issue. During the discourse, they offer arguments for each position on a contested public issue, first drawing from the text and then bringing in their own experiences.
- Read a detailed description of the Deliberation method.
- Our Deliberation Resource Bundle and Video includes several resources to help you successfully conduct deliberations in your classroom.
Note: Street Law suggests teaching the Symbols for Principles of Democracy lesson plan prior to deliberating this topic.
