Congressional Simulation Planning

Congressional Simulation Planning 

Objectives:

• I can engage in a simulated legislative debate on gun control.
• I can evaluate various perspectives on gun control and develop evidence-based arguments.

Roles: 

• Committee Chair:
  • Maintain order and enforce time limits.
  • Facilitate transitions between debate segments.
  • Moderate the questioning round and committee debate.
• Committee Members:
  • Prepare at least three thoughtful questions for the witnesses.
  • Take notes during testimonies to prepare for informed debate.
  • Be prepared to propose compromises or amendments during consensus building.
• Witness Groups:
  • Prepare a 5–7 minute presentation on the proposed legislation.
  • Address these questions in your presentation:
    • What are the key arguments for and against your proposed legislation?
    • How does your legislation balance individual rights and the public good?
    • What are the potential consequences of passing or rejecting your legislation?
    • How does your legislation align with the Second Amendment and other relevant constitutional provisions?

Debate Format: 

• Opening Statements (2–3 minutes each)
• Witness Testimonies (5–7 minutes each)
• Questioning Round (15–20 minutes)
• Committee Debate (20–30 minutes)
• Consensus Building (15–20 minutes)
• Final Statements (1–2 minutes each)
• Voting

Debate Guidelines: 

• Use evidence-based arguments.
• Practice civil discourse and respect differing viewpoints.
• Focus on the issues, not personal attacks.
• Be prepared to support your position with facts and logical reasoning.