Athens/Sparta Debate Project
Due __________________ (Test Grade) Assigned Topic _________________________________________
Each class will be split into two factions: Athens vs. Sparta. You will work on one of 6 topics:
1. Government (types, why they chose it, why it worked for their society)
2. Social System (privileges, occupations, classes) and Role of Slaves in the Society, Women (treatment,
rights, role, responsibilities) and Family (children, daily life, marriage, roles within the family)
3. Military (use of, strategy, training, technology, famous generals, battles and records)
4. Education (purpose of, what they were taught and why, extended education)
5. Geography and Economy , how it affected each other (land, resources, trade, money system, what they
had or needed)
6. Culture (art, architecture, principles they consider important) and Technology (might be military,
architecture, metalwork, science etc.)
Tip: This is a persuasive writing. Not simply a research assignment teaching about the culture. Be sure to frame your
research and presentation with that focus in mind.
Research Your Topic (15 points) Final due:
Take good notes while researching your topic. These will be your research notes that you will have to submit
on the day of the debate. They must be on index cards or a separate sheet of paper (not print outs or in your IN.)
This is where you will write down the facts and supporting information from each source you read (book,
magazine, website, etc.) Include only what you think could be useful for your speech. Have at least 3 sources
(more than 3 makes for a more credible argument)
- at least 1 book from a library (not your textbooks: History Alive! or The Ancient Greek World)
- at least 1 website source (Wikipedia is NOT as valid source, try a museum, university or my links page)
- at least one other source/s - your choice (again, no Wikipedia - look at where your sources come from)
Type Bibliography Works Cited (10 points) Final due:
Use the Works Cited guide (found in your red MVP folder or on my website) as a reference. It explains how to
organize your sources. It must be done correctly to receive credit! It must have at least the 3 sources on your
list. Type in 12 pt. font, double-space and in ABC order. You will need 2 copies.
Generate a Thesis Statement (CW assignment) due:
Using a graphic organizer shared in class, formulate your thesis statement or the basis for your argument. This will
eventually work into your Intro/Thesis (Opening Argument) Paragraph.
Organize Your Outline (30 points) Final due:
Use your research notes to organize your speech. Start with an outline. It is a rough draft of your speech. Your
outline should have 5 parts which can eventually turn into paragraphs after you elaborate. Type in 12 pt. font
and double-space. These will be checked in class and peer edited for a CW grade. Reference the chunk model
and format below. You can have more than the 2 or 3 supporting details. You will need 2 copies.
I. Thesis Sentence with opinion based on your research (You will want to include an audience grabber), including
your main 3 points.
A. First Main Contrasting Point to defend
1. A detail as evidence supporting your point in favor of your city-state
2. Another detail as evidence supporting your point in favor of your city-state
3. Possible negative detail from other city-state that supports your point.
B. Second Main Contrasting Point to defend
1. A detail as evidence supporting your point in favor of your city-state
2. Another detail as evidence supporting your point in favor of your city-state
3. Possible negative detail from other city-state that supports your point.
C. Third Main Contrasting Point to defend
1. A detail as evidence supporting your point in favor of your city-state
2. Another detail as evidence supporting your point in favor of your city-state
3. Possible negative detail from other city-state that supports your point.
Pull whole argument together with a clinching conclusion. This should be a few sentences.
Compose your Opening Statement (20 points) Final due:
This is a persuasive speech and you want to open captivating your audience, reeling them in and onto your side
from the start. There are several effective ways to do this (story, imagery, strong profound data, a quote etc.)
Then lead into your thesis statement which states your opinion and summarizes your points you will stress.
YOU MUST PARAPHRASE THE INFORMATION FOUND WHILE RESEARCHING. That means you must
reword the facts in your own way as to not plagiarize another’s work. Type in 12 pt. font and double-space.
You will need 2 copies. This will be peer edited in class.
You will exchange outlines and opening statements with your partner in topic or side. Checking for clear
opinions supported by evidence found in research. Detail elaborations and justifications for your position.
Additionally students will be checking for spelling, grammatical errors and diction (word choice.)
Organize Documents and Prepare for the Actual Debate (25 points) due:
On the day of the debate you must have these documents:
Research notes
Final Typed Opening Statement (following the Standards of Excellence guide)
Final Typed Outline of your Speech (following the Standards of Excellence guide)
Final Typed Bibliography (following Works Cited and the Standards of Excellence guides)
Rehearse your speech. You do not need to memorize it, but you need be able to deliver your speech clearly and
confidently without being glued to reading it from the paper. The goal is to persuade your opponent and the audience to
support your point of view. Body Language and Confidence are key AND part of your grade.
Your grade will be based on:
 Your preparation and efforts
 Submission of all documents listed above according to directions
 Your active participation in the actual debate (effective use of persuasive speech, appropriate and clearly
supported contributions or rebuttals, decorum etc.)