Students engaged in Structured Academic Controversy lesson to critically explore the question: Should the U.S. use nuclear energy as a main source of energy to reduce carbon emissions?
Present the Both Sides of Arguments with Evidence
Students were divided into teams to consider two sides of the issue: using nuclear energy to reduce carbon emissions versus using nuclear energy. Students in each group presented their sides with evidence to support their claims/arguments, with scaffolded guidance to help students develop written claims towards collective group consensus.
Discussion and Consensus
After the initial round of exchanges students switched positions on the issue and presented arguments for the side opposite of which they initially argued. The presentation and listening process was repeated. Finally, the whole class came together for a final discussion and consensus building.
