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Debating Controversial Issues

  1.  In chapter 5 there are several issues that are controversial. After the chapter has been read, divide the class into five groups. Each group will be assigned one issue and will divide themselves into "pros" and "cons" and one moderator. Allow time within the groups to discuss the issue, create notes of support for their point of view, and write questions that the moderator will ask of each side. Each debate should take no longer than five minutes.

  Bones in the Blue Mountains

2.  These are the issues of controversy in chapter 5:

Mr. Herzog says that "It is the Sabbath and we don't travel on the Sabbath." ... "You're not alone. The train is divided on whether we should travel or stop on the Sabbath."

"People say Indians are dirty and lazy and will steal whatever they get their hands on," I said.

"I heard that some Indians will try to make us pay to cross the plains. I don't think that's fair"

The next morning, before breaking camp, we saw a man carrying the bundle from the platform. "Look what I found next to a dead Indian over there," he shouted. "Let's see what's in it."

A woman was riding horseback with one foot on one side of the horse and the other foot on the other side just like a man would ride. Mr. Moore looked at her and said, "If that doesn't beat all!"

3.  Each debate team will be seated in a semicircle in front of the rest of the class and discuss the issue as questioned by their moderator. All members of the panel should contribute to the discussion. Change groups and proceed in the same manner so that all five issues are presented. Remind students that difficult issues such as these are not resolved easily or completely, with some being settled only with the passing of time.