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?