1. Your Guide to the Final Debate: Should Science Be Censored?
The (Ferret) Sneeze Heard Around The World: The Case Of The Bioengineered Bird Flu
Case Study for AAC&U STIRS Project
Jill M. Manske
University of St. Thomas

2. Your Guide to the Final Debate: Should Science Be Censored?
We will debate the question: “Should gain-of-function experiments on highly pathogenic agents such as avian influenza should proceed and be published in full ”

3. Structure - 3 parts; 2 grades
Reflect and Prepare both sides (pro-publication, con-publication)
Independent research-written support cheat sheet(s)
Debate (blind-select role from a “hat” when you come in)
Written reflection in which you express and support your position as well as reflect on the persuasiveness of various sources or statements during the process

4. Written Preparation
Due 5/7
At least 3 well-supported bullet points from which you could easily craft a 3-5 minute opening statement for either “side”.
citations ready (papers or other valid source) (minimum of 3 for each bullet point)
Key details should be “at the ready” for rebuttals
Be prepared to counter “popular” arguments-anticipate
You will use this document during the debate
30 points-Bb rubric

5. Rubric for Debate Preparation

6. Debate Format ROLES: opening statement presenter (Pro/Con)
rebuttal 1, 2, or 3 (Pro/Con)
closing statement presenter (Pro/Con)
support (Pro/Con)

7. Debate Format 2. Timing (~ 60 minutes): 10 min to organize your team
3-5 min each opening statements (10min)
5 min to prepare
3 min each rebuttal (6 min)
3-5 min each closing statements (10min)

8. Written Reflection Written reflection (~300 words):
Clearly express your position (10 points)
Support your position (specifically why) (10 points)
reflect on the persuasiveness of various sources or statements during the process
Reflect on effective communication practices
Include example of things to do and not to do (10 points)
30 points- rubric

9. Rubric for Written Reflection