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Revolutionary Town Hall Debate Planning

A student handout to guide them through participation in a structured debate.

Student Reminder: Stay in character, use historical evidence, and engage respectfully in debate.

Opening Statement (1-2 Minutes)

  • Introduce yourself in character and state your position.
  • What are your main arguments?
  • Why do you support or oppose independence?
  • Use at least one quote or historical fact as evidence.

Notes for Opening Statement:

 

Moderator Questions & Responses

Prepare responses for possible debate questions. Use historical evidence to support your arguments.

  • Why should the colonies stay loyal to Britain or seek independence?
  • What are the biggest threats to the colonies right now?
  • What do you say to people who disagree with you?
  • What should happen to Loyalists if the colonies declare independence?

Cross-Examination & Rebuttals

  • Identify one argument someone from the opposing side might use against you.
  • How will you counter this argument using historical facts?
  • Stay in character!

Potential Counterargument:

 

My Rebuttal:

Closing Statement (1 Minute)

  • Summarize your main argument.
  • Why is your perspective the correct one?
  • Use one final piece of evidence to support your view.

Notes for Closing Statement:

 

Reflection Questions (After the Debate)

  • Which argument in the debate was most persuasive? Why?
  • Did your perspective change after hearing other arguments? Why or why not?
  • If you were living in the colonies during the Revolutionary War, which side would you be most likely to support? Choose a person from that time whose views or reasons you think you might agree with. What aspects of their beliefs or experiences would influence your decision?