1.2: Political Ideologies - Classroom Activity
- Page ID
- 231647
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Debate: Do We Need Universal Healthcare in Our Country?
1. Form 7 groups (one for each ideology considered here).
2. Choose ONE ideology for your group: liberalism, socialism, Marxism, anarchism, conservatism, libertarianism, or fascism.
3. Each group reviews the main tenets and key ideas of their chosen ideology.
4. Groups develop 5 arguments for and/or against the debate question, depending on their assigned ideology, making sure that their arguments are true to their ideological principles:
Should the government provide universal healthcare for all? 
5. Groups prepare a brief statement introducing and outlining their stance.
6. Each group presents their arguments to each other.
7. Engage in rebuttals.
8. Class Reflection
A. How did your assigned ideology shape your perspective on the issue?
B. Which ideological arguments did you find most convincing?
C. Which ideology would ultimately create a fairer, just, and inclusive society?
D. Did any perspective challenge your personal beliefs?
Evaluation Rubric
| Criteria | Exemplary (4 pts) | Proficient (3 pts) | Developing (2 pts) | Beginning (1 pt) | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Ideological Accuracy (Step 3) | Arguments perfectly reflect core tenets of assigned ideology; no contradictions. | Arguments mostly align with ideology; minor inconsistencies. | Some alignment, but several arguments stray from ideological principles. | Little or no connection to assigned ideology. | /4 |
| 2. Quality of Arguments (Step 4) | 5 strong, well-researched arguments; clear logical structure; uses evidence or reasoning appropriate to the ideology. | 5 arguments present; mostly logical and relevant. | Fewer than 5 arguments or weak/irrelevant points. | Arguments missing or completely off-topic. | /4 |
| 3. Opening Statement (Step 5) | Clear, compelling, and concise introduction of stance; outlines key arguments effectively. | Clear introduction but lacks some clarity or impact. | Unclear or disorganized opening. | No coherent opening statement. | /4 |
| 4. Presentation & Delivery (Step 6) | Engaging, confident, audible; maintains eye contact; uses time well (e.g., 3–5 min). | Good delivery with minor issues (e.g., pacing, eye contact). | Poor delivery, hard to follow, or too short/long. | Inaudible, unprepared, or no presentation. | /4 |
| 5. Rebuttal Skills (Step 7) | Directly addresses opposing arguments; uses ideological logic to counter; respectful and sharp. | Addresses some arguments but misses key points; generally respectful. | Weak or off-target rebuttals; defensive or aggressive tone. | No rebuttal or irrelevant responses. | /4 |
| 6. Group Collaboration | All members participate actively in prep, presentation, and rebuttals. | Most members participate. | Only 1–2 members do most work. | Group dysfunction; minimal collaboration. | /4 |
| 7. Overall Ideological Diversity | Group shows clear contrast with other ideologies; enriches debate. | Good contrast but some overlap with others. | Limited contrast; arguments resemble another ideology. | No distinct ideological voice. | /4 |

