This has been a fiercely controversial issue since its induction in 2001. Proponents of the Patriot Act Claim that it is a necessary tool in the War on Terror. Opponents of the act cite the Bill of Rights, and claim that the Patriot Act is unconstitutional.
What do you think?
Much like you will be judging the other class on their debate over the second amendment, they will be judging you on a debate on the Patriot Act. The class has been divided into two teams randomly, and team one is going to argue against the Patriot Act.
Both teams will debate each other in front of my other class, and the other class will vote on who won the debate. The winners of the debate will receive two extra credit points added to their final grade, (the same way the extra credit paper would be.)
I will moderate the debate. I will be completely impartial during the actual debate, but will be able to answer any questions you might have during the preparation stage.
The following are some of the questions that will be asked during the debate. These questions are not all-encompassing, so each group must learn all they can about this controversial issue.
- What, if any, amendments are relevant to the Patriot
Act? - Has the Patriot Act Been successful in deterring further terrorist attacks on US soil?
- How do the American people feel about this issue? Should their opinion carry weight in this discussion?
Mr. Klima's History Class 