1. Is the Death Penalty “Cruel & Unusual” Punishment?
The 8th Amendment
Is the Death Penalty “Cruel & Unusual” Punishment?

2. The relevant part reads:
The 8th Amendment
The relevant part reads:
“Excessive bail shall not be required, nor excessive fines imposed, nor cruel and unusual punishments inflicted”

3. YOUR ESSAY TOPIC
“In the 21st Century, should the Death Penalty be considered cruel and unusual punishment?”
Use the documents and discussion to formulate a persuasive essay of 4-5 paragraphs, using the template we have learned.

4. IN YOUR GROUPS
Using the “Pro/Con” single sheet you all got, go around the group and get a preliminary sense of which arguments made the most sense, and how people generally feel on the topic.

5. IN YOUR GROUPS
Then, go around the group and have everyone give a “detailed” explanation of the reading(s) they were assigned. Cite quotes, statistics, etc. Was the reading helpful in formulating your opinion? How?

6. “The Dylan Roof Editorial”
IN YOUR GROUPS
“The Dylan Roof Editorial”
Take 5-10 minutes to have each person in your group react to this editorial. What statistics were helpful? Do you agree with the author’s point of view? Why or why not?

7. IN YOUR GROUPS My Favorite Activity!
Split your group in half, and have one side argue in favor of the question, and the other side opposed. Use documents to support your thesis. We will switch after a while.

8. YOUR OPENING PARAGRAPH
“ Since the 8th Amendment was created, there has been controversy as to what “cruel & unusual” punishment means. This is especially true with the Death Penalty. Some people believe____, while others believe____. This brings up the essential question, which is ______. I believe ______, because ______, _______, and ______