1. Who is the greater American Renaissance Man? Debate

2. Thomas Jefferson vs. Benjamin Franklin
Renaissance Men
Thomas Jefferson vs. Benjamin Franklin

3. Instructions
Select a topic Thomas Jefferson is the Most important Renaissance Man in American History or Benjamin Franklin is the Most important Renaissance Man in American History
Take a stand
Let the research begin
Fact gathering should support the student’s point of view. Three to five resources are recommended. Students need a structured framework to guide their research. Use the template for taking notes shown below.

4. Research guide
Opinion: We believe that _____________ is the most important renaissance man in U.S. History
Source #1:
Facts:
Source #2:
Source #3:

5. Debate rules Be polite and courteous. Listen attentively
Be respectful and supportive of peers.
Avoid inappropriate noises.
Speak only when recognized by the moderator.
Allow others to express their opinions; do not monopolize the debate.
Use grammatically correct language.
Speak clearly, slowly, and loud enough to be heard by the audience.
Speak with passion and excitement.

6. Debate Format
First speaker: 2 minute (Position Presentation) – “ We believe that Thomas Jefferson is the most important Renaissance Man in U.S history because…
First speaker: 2 minute (Position Presentation)- We believe that Benjamin Franklin is the most important Renaissance Man in U.S history because…
3 min work time to write rebuttal
 Second Speaker: 2 min (rebuttal)
2 minute Rebuttal -
 3 min work time to write response to rebuttal
 Third Speaker: (Evidence and response to rebuttal ) 2 Min.
2 minute Response -
2 minute Response-
 Fourth Speaker: (Summary/ Final Statement) 2 min.
2 minute Position Summary/ Final Statement -
5 minute Tallying of Ballots/Announcement of Winner