The Great Debate!

Who Is the Monster?

Subject: 12th Grade English
Core Standards:
RL 1: Cite strong and thorough textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says
explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text, including determining where the text
leaves matters uncertain.
SL 1: Initiate and participate effectifly in a range of collaborative discussions (one-on-
one, in groups, and teacher-led) with diverse partners on grades 11-12 topics, texts, and
issues, building on others ideas and expressing their own clearly and persuasively.
L 1: Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English Grammar and usage
when writing or speaking.
Objective: Students will be able to argue opinions for or against certain literary characters in a
respectful manner, relying on text-based evidence to support their claims. Students will be able
to critically think about alternative narratives. Students will know the differences and impact of
point of view on a characters attitude, expressions, and opinions.
Essential Question(s): How do we participate in a respectful dialogue with those that disagree
with us? Who is the real monster/villain in a story? Just because we can should we?
Procedure:
1. This project will follow the reading of Mary Shelleys Frankenstein, and be used as part
of a 2 day review leading up to the unit final.
a. May be altered to fit other texts as needed.
2. Students will be separated into two sides of the argument Who is the real Monster,
taking either the side of Victor Frankenstein or Frankensteins Monster.
a. Challenge students to see the different points of view and to look at the chapters
within the text that speak directly to their side.
3. Once separated (literally dividing the room in half) randomly hand out different colored
index card (at least 3 colors). Must make sure that you have similar numbers of cards in
those colors.
a. Upon these cards instruct students to write their names in pen.
b. Every student will receive 2 colored cards and a Power Card that allows them to
make a counter argument or claim even if it is not their turn. Can only be used
once.
4. Explain to students that the teacher will call out for a specific color (example: blue).
Those with that color card are going to be the only ones who are allowed to talk until all
cards of that color have spoken. To make sure that no one is repeating students will hand
their card to the teacher before speaking (this works for participation as well). If you
dont have a card you may not speak.
a. Every student must participate!
 b. Once every one with the color has spoken switch to another color and continue
the debate.
5. Teacher starts off the debate by asking Who is the real Monster/Villain in the novel?
a. Teacher picks one side to start.
b. There MUST be a back and forth, no repletion on the same side of the argument.
c. The teacher is the FACILITATOR of this argument, it is their job to keep it
respectful, and to not be the one leading the argument. You are an onlooker, not a
participator.
i. Teacher can prompt questions to keep the debate going.
d. Students must talk for at least 1 minute at a time. (gives roughly 30-40 minutes
for debate depending on size and if there are no interruptions)
e. NOTE: if students are unable to come up with their own new point or idea they
can reference back to the last statement and agree with it, but they must still
explain why.
6. For students who are not a part of the current discussion instruct them to take notes.
Students should have at least 3 key arguments/statements or ones that they personally
found compelling from both sides.
a. These will be turned in at the end of class
7. A key point to this is that students must reference the text as much as possible. If they
make a statement they should be able to back it up by referencing the text. Direct quotes
get extra points, if they are relevant.
a. Keep track of direct quotes on the students card that they have handed you.