1. Managing controversial issues in the classroom How would you do it and what advice would you give to teachers?

2. Think about any issues, headlines or activities recently appearing in the news that you think are controversial. Share your thinking with someone else (2 mins)

3. Objectives: WALT - We Are Learning To: Identify what makes an issue controversial or contentious Determine how to deal with controversy Provide advice about the ways we should handle controversy in the classroom

4. Outcomes: WILF – What I’m Looking For… People who can work together to produce: An agreed strategy (method or way) for teachers to help pupils explore and discuss controversial issues, respectfully, in the classroom

5. Cooperation Squares – a silent activity Work in groups of 5 Decide who will be A, B, C, D and E You have exactly enough pieces to construct 5 complete squares and you cannot do this challenge with just the pieces you have. RULES Only giving pieces to other people is allowed No-one can take pieces from someone else No-one can signal or gesture or help another team member

6. What makes an issue controversial?

7. Work with a partner: Talk about the things which give rise to most debate or argument between: 1.Friends 2.Family 3.Politicians 4.Countries Decide which you think are the most common and list your top five

8. Controversial issues are… Issues which are current and about which different groups disagree and hold strong opinions e.g. war, immigration Issues which deal with fundamental questions of value and belief e.g.abortion, gay rights

9. Balanced and fair? Teachers must offer students: a balanced presentation of opposing views when bringing political or controversial issues for discussion Teachers must not: Promote any partisan political views in the teaching of any subject

10. How do you avoid bias? Help everyone recognise bias and: Make sure all sides of an argument are heard Present opposing views in a balanced way Don’t present evidence as if it cannot be argued with Challenge popular/conventional views Don’t present opinions as facts Make it easy for everyone to contribute

11. What are the advantages and disadvantages of: A neutral approach A balanced approach A committed approach

12. Should students be free to express whatever opinions they like in lessons? Do students have a right to know the personal views of their teachers? Why or why not?

13. Plenary Thank you for your hard work and contributions