Students engaged in Structured Academic Controversy lesson to critically explore the question: Should the U.S. have used atomic warfare against the Japanese during WW2?
Present the Both Sides of Arguments with Evidence
After reading and analyzing texts and historical quotes, students work in groups of four with two-three to present arguments that consider each side of the argument: one side in favor of bombing and the other against bombing. Their goal is to listen, critically interpret evidence-based arguments, and then synthesize understanding of the multiple perspectives of this complex issue.
Discussion and Consensus
Students each share their individual opinions on whether dropping the atomic bombs on were justified. Collectively, each group attempts to develop evidence-based consensus. Afterwards, each group will then share their consensus decisions in a whole group discussion.
