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Lesson · Point-Counterpoint

Point-Counterpoint: Presidential Unilateralism

Guiding question

How can opposing viewpoints be critically evaluated to inform understanding?

Grade
10–12
Published
Jul 30, 2025
The White House front entrance featuring classical columns and a lantern.

Virtues

Moderation, Humility

Objectives 

  • I can summarize, compare, and evaluate two claims.

Directions: Complete the graphic organizer as you read the point and counterpoint essays.

Point

The Issue on the Table

Counterpoint

Summarize in your own words:

 

 

Select and record the sentence(s) that best demonstrate the point of view of this claim:

Summarize in your own words:

 

 

Select and record the sentence(s) that best demonstrate the point of view of this claim:

Lesson Components

ActivityGovernment and Politics Point-Counterpoint Graphic Organizer

Critically analyze two opposing claims on a given topic by summarizing their core arguments, comparing their key points of divergence, and evaluating their strengths and weaknesses.

EssayPresidential Unilateralism is a Legitimate Part of Constitutional Government Point-Counterpoint

Does rule by executive orders and presidential unilateralism undermine democracy?

EssayPresidential Unilateralism Undermines Democracy Point-Counterpoint

Does rule by executive orders and presidential unilateralism undermine democracy?

Scholarly Claim Essays + Student Activity

Graphic organizer for comparing point-counterpoint essays with space for summarizing viewpoints and key sentences.
ActivityGovernment and Politics Point-Counterpoint Graphic Organizer

Critically analyze two opposing claims on a given topic by summarizing their core arguments, comparing their key points of divergence, and evaluating their strengths and weaknesses.

Text from an academic article titled "Presidential Unilateralism is a Legitimate Part of Constitutional Government."
EssayPresidential Unilateralism is a Legitimate Part of Constitutional Government Point-Counterpoint

Does rule by executive orders and presidential unilateralism undermine democracy?

Text discussing presidential unilateralism and its impact on democracy, with title and author details at the top.
EssayPresidential Unilateralism Undermines Democracy Point-Counterpoint

Does rule by executive orders and presidential unilateralism undermine democracy?

Lesson plan

    • Compare the two arguments. To what extent do these claims support or oppose each other?
    • Which argument do you find more convincing? Explain what led you to this point of view.
    • What questions are you left with, or what other relevant details could you add to either claim?

Standards

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