Lesson Plan Title : Banned Book Debate

Age Range: Grade 9 through Grade 12 (High School Level)

Overview and Purpose : Banning books in schools is a hotly debated practice. In this activity, students investigate why books are banned and why some groups are against the idea. In a mock debate, students argue for and against banning books for an audience of their peers.

Objective: The student will be able to debate whether books should be banned from schools.

Resources:

Internet access for each student

List of books that have been banned from schools - The list may need to be pared down to a selection of books, since the entire list may be too extensive.

Activities:

Divide the students into two groups. One group will argue for banning books and the other group will argue against it. Have them work together to create an outline for an argument for their side. The students should divide up the outline and research the different points. Provide the students time in class to prepare their response to the debate.

Have another class listen to the debate and decide which group had the best argument.

Closure:

Talk with students about being able to cite their sources during a debate and using various forms of media to help their argument. Remind them to keep the discussion friendly and not to attack each other.