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Class Debate Media Studies 120
Class DebateMedia Studies 120
87.9% of violent acts appear before 9 p.m.
In 2001, only ¼ of the most violent TV shows, and two fifths of the most violent movies were rated R. The majority were rated PG or PG-13.
“As easy as killing babies with axes.”
(Source: Advertising copy for the game Carmageddon).
In 2001, the US Federal Trade Commission reported that retailers allowed 78% of unaccompanied minors, aged 13 to 16 to purchase games rated “Mature.”
Our class is going to debate whether the government should take regulatory steps to control the amount of violence in the media.
You will be on one of two teams:
YES, the government needs to regulate the media.
orNO, the government should leave the media
deregulated.
You will receive two articles to help you prepare for our debate.
1. Media Violence Debates (Media Awareness Network)
2. Violence in Media Entertainment (Media Awareness Network)
You need to read these closely looking for points for the debate.
Teams can ask for “cheat cards.” Points are deducted by each card drawn!
Remember to think about points the opposing team may come up with so you can have an argument ready.
You will receive a Debate Organizer sheet to keep your team on task.
I think… In my opinion… I’d rather… The way I see it… As far as I’m concerned… I strongly believe that… I’m convinced that…
I don’t think that… Don’t you think it would be better… I don’t agree… Shouldn’t we consider… But what about… Let’s face it… The truth of the matter is… The problem with that point of view is…
To start with… The reason why… For this reason… Many people think… Research shows… Considering… When you consider that…
TODAY: Introductory material. Set teams. Read articles closely looking for points.
TOMORROW: You will have 30 minutes in the lab for team members to search the Internet for more information. Reconvene with team members to plan debate and assign tasks to all team members.
NEXT DAY: Hold debate.
