AP
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Seminar: Sample Syllabus 4
Sample Syllabus 4 Contents
Curricular Requirements ............................................................................................................................. ii
AP Seminar Course Syllabus .......................................................................................................................1
Class Format ..........................................................................................................................................1
Plagiarism ..............................................................................................................................................1
AP Capstone Policy on Plagiarism and Falsification or Fabrication of Information ............................1
Instructional Resources ..........................................................................................................................2
Student Expectations ..............................................................................................................................2
Evaluation and Grading .........................................................................................................................2
Unit 1/Quarter 1 ...........................................................................................................................................3
Essential Questions ................................................................................................................................3
Learning Objectives Addressed in this Unit ..........................................................................................3
Summative Assessments ........................................................................................................................3
Unit 1a: Introducing the Seminar’s QUEST ..........................................................................................4
Activities/Assignments ..........................................................................................................................4
Unit 1b: Entering the Conversation - The Value of Water ....................................................................6
Activities/Assignments ..........................................................................................................................6
Unit 2/Quarter 2: Entering the Conversation - Global High Stakes Testing .............................................16
Essential Questions ..............................................................................................................................16
Learning Objectives Addressed in this Unit ........................................................................................16
Summative Assessments ......................................................................................................................17
Activities/Assignments ........................................................................................................................17
Quarter 3/Quarter 4 ....................................................................................................................................24
Seminar Performance Tasks ................................................................................................................24
AP Seminar End-of-Course Exam .......................................................................................................24
Introduction to AP Research ................................................................................................................24
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Seminar: Sample Syllabus 4
Curricular Requirements
CR1 Students explore complexities of one or more themes by making connections within, between, and/or
among multiple cross-curricular areas and by exploring multiple perspectives and lenses (e.g.,
cultural and social, artistic and philosophical, political and historical, environmental, economic,
scientific, futuristic, ethical) related to those themes.
• See page 6
CR2a The course provides multiple opportunities for students to practice and refine their skills by engaging
with the QUEST process.
• See pages 3, 16
CR2b Students develop and apply discrete skills identified in the learning objectives within the Big Idea 1:
Question and Explore.
• See page 20
CR2c Students develop and apply discrete skills identified in the learning objectives within the Big Idea 2:
Understand and Analyze.
• See pages 5, 8, 11
CR2d Students develop and apply discrete skills identified in the learning objectives within the Big Idea 3:
Evaluate Multiple Perspectives.
• See pages 11, 19
CR2e Students develop and apply discrete skills identified in the learning objectives within the Big Idea 4:
Synthesize Ideas.
• See pages 11, 22
CR2f Students develop and apply collaboration skills identified in the learning objectives within the Big
Idea 5: Team, Transform, and Transmit.
• See pages 13, 15
CR2g Students develop and apply reflection skills identified in the learning objectives within the Big Idea
5: Team, Transform, and Transmit.
• See pages 16, 18
CR2h Students develop and apply written and oral communication skills identified in the learning objectives
within the Big Idea 5: Team, Transform, and Transmit.
• See pages 9, 14, 15, 16
CR3 Students gain a rich appreciation and understanding of the issues through the following activities:
reading articles and research studies; reading foundational, literary, and philosophical texts; viewing
and listening to speeches, broadcasts, and/or personal accounts; and experiencing artistic works and
performances.
• See pages 6, 8, 11, 18
CR4a Students develop an understanding of ethical research practices.
• See page 11
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Seminar: Sample Syllabus 4
CR4b Students develop an understanding of the AP Capstone™ Policy on Plagiarism and Falsification or
Fabrication of Information.
• See page 1
CR5 Students work collaboratively with a team to identify, investigate, analyze, and evaluate a real-world
or academic problem or issue; consider and evaluate alternatives or options; propose one or more
solutions or resolutions; and present and defend the argument for their solutions through a multimedia
presentation.
• See page 24
CR6 Students work independently to identify a research question based on provided stimulus material;
research the issue; analyze, evaluate, and select evidence to develop an argument; present and defend
a conclusion; and produce a multimedia presentation to be delivered to their peers.
• See page 24
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Seminar: Sample Syllabus 4
AP Seminar Course Syllabus
Class Format
This course will require individual and group work that involves writing and/or discussion. The inquiry process is
integral to this class and requires participation. Students must stay on top of reading assignments since they will
be the focus of entire class periods. In this course, students are expected not only to be an active participant, but
also an active listener. A student’s attendance and ability to work well with peers on assignments is imperative for
the team’s success as well as a student’s individual success in this class.
Written work: Writing is a process, and everyone has different strengths and abilities as a writer. I want to see
students grow through this course. Everyone will start and end in different places. We will work together to
strengthen writing skills, and we will also work together as a class and help each other. Use readings to emulate
the writing of different styles that are effective in both argument and style.
Formal essays should always be typed, double spaced, in Times New Roman or Arial font (size 12), titled, and
with no more than 1-inch margins. On all submitted assignments, papers should be headed with student name,
date, period, and the name of the assignment, using proper MLA format. If a student does not have access to a
computer, the public libraries have computers as well as the school computer lab. Excuses about last minute
broken printers, flash drives, or computer CDs are highly suspect; it is the student’s responsibility to come to class
with the paper already printed. Students should always save a copy of their papers for future revision.
Plagiarism
We will sign the Academic Integrity Agreement within the first week of school. Students are expected to compose
essays and projects of their own thoughts, ideas, and words. When referencing the words or ideas of others,
students are to quote or paraphrase, giving credit to sources; otherwise, it is stealing (plagiarism), and it will result
in no credit for the assignment. Bottom line: plagiarism is unacceptable.
AP Capstone Policy on Plagiarism and Falsification or Fabrication of Information [CR4b]
“Participating teachers shall inform students of the consequences of plagiarism and instruct students to ethically
use and acknowledge the ideas and work of others throughout their course work. The student’s individual voice
should be clearly evident, and the ideas of others must be acknowledged, attributed, and/or cited.
A student who fails to acknowledge the source or author of any and all information or evidence taken from the
work of someone else through citation, attribution or reference in the body of the work, or through a bibliographic
entry, will receive a score of 0 on that particular component of the AP Seminar and/or AP Research Performance
Task. In AP Seminar, a team of students that fails to properly acknowledge sources or authors on the Team
Multimedia Presentation will receive a group score of 0 for that component of the Team Project and Presentation.
A student who incorporates falsified or fabricated information (e.g. evidence, data, sources, and/or authors) will
receive a score of 0 on that particular component of the AP Seminar and/or AP Research Performance Task. In
AP Seminar, a team of students that incorporates falsified or fabricated information in the Team Multimedia
Presentation will receive a group score of 0 for that component of the Team Project and Presentation.”
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Seminar: Sample Syllabus 4
[CR4b] — Students develop an understanding of the AP Capstone Policy on Plagiarism and Falsification or
Fabrication of Information.
Instructional Resources
To meet the course objectives, current media, magazines, journals, newspapers, and other secondary and primary
sources will be incorporated.
Instruction and readings will also come from the following text:
Johnson, June. Global Issues, Local Arguments: Readings for Writing. 3rd ed. Boston: Pearson, 2014. (GILA)
Additionally, the inquiry-based nature of AP Seminar requires activities and assessments that use a variety of
sources and technologies (e.g., library/internet research, audio/video equipment, etc.).
Information used to address a problem may come from a variety of print and non-print secondary sources (e.g.,
articles, other studies, analyses, reports) and/or primary sources (e.g., original texts and works or personally
collected data such as experiments, surveys, questionnaires, and interviews). Students will be expected to use
technology to access and manage information from online databases (e.g., SIRS and Google Scholar) that grant
access to secondary and primary resources.
The following research handbook will be referenced as needed:
Palmquist, Mike. The Bedford Researcher. 4th ed. Boston: Bedford/St. Martin’s, 2012.
Student Expectations
The class rules are as follows:
1. Respect others and their belongings, including those of this school.
2. No swearing or offensive language or behavior.
3. Be here on time. Work until the bell rings.
4. Bring materials with you to class. You may not be allowed to get anything from your locker.
5. Follow directions the first time they are given.
6. Use integrity and honesty in all assignments.
7. Silence is no longer an option for some of you. For the chatterboxes, take a break sometimes and allow
others a chance to speak as well.
8. Maintain a positive attitude—think of this as an adventure or journey!
Evaluation and Grading
Participation: Evaluation will be based on how a student’s participation (comments, ideas, and questions) helped
to enhance and/or to advance the class’ overall collective understanding through critical discussion and listening.
Daily Work: Grades will be based on the points earned on in-class writings, homework, assignments, and
reflections.
Assessments: All assessment scores will come from essays (definition, problem/solution, argument/persuasion)
or practice seminar assessments (team project and presentation, individual written essay and presentation, and
written exam).
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Seminar: Sample Syllabus 4
Unit 1/Quarter 1
Essential Questions
What do I want to know or understand?
How does the context of the problem or issue affect how it is interpreted or presented?
What strategies help me comprehend text?
What is the main argument and what reasoning does the author use to develop it?
Why does the author view the issue this way?
What patterns or trends can be identified among the arguments?
What biases may the author have that influence his or her perspective?
How might others see the problem or issue differently?
***Please note that all Learning Objectives (LO) and Essential Knowledge (EK) will be introduced and
consistently practiced throughout the unit. Each continuing LO or EK may not be explicitly stated in each
practice or assessment listed in the unit even though it is being retaught and practiced.
Learning Objectives Addressed in this Unit
Question and Explore: 1.1A, 1.1B, 1.2A, 1.3A, 1.4A, 1.5A
Understand and Analyze: 2.1A, 2.1B, 2.2A, 2.2B, 2.2C
Evaluate Multiple Perspectives: 3.1A, 3.2A
Synthesize Ideas: 4.1A, 4.2A, 4.2B, 4.3A
Team, Transform, and Transmit: 5.1A, 5.1B, 5.1C, 5.1D, 5.1E, 5.2B, 5.3A, 5.3B [CR2a]
[CR2a]
— The course provides multiple opportunities for students to practice and refine their skills by engaging with
the QUEST process.
Summative Assessments
Individual Presentation Practice—Photo Essays: Students develop and present a multimedia presentation
(approximately 6–8 minutes) to an audience. Students then defend their research process, use of evidence, and
conclusion through oral answers to two questions asked by the teacher.
Collaborative Problem/Solution Essay: Students will write a report of approximately 2,000 words that
demonstrates how water is a valued resource, the issues surrounding water, and a solution to one of the issues.
Reflection: Each team member will reflect on the team process, as well as their research process, use of evidence,
and their conclusions (600–900 words).
(C-SPAN’s Student Cam documentary competition will be completed in conjunction with this research).
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Seminar: Sample Syllabus 4
Unit 1a: Introducing the Seminar’s QUEST
Activities/Assignments
Activity 1
Resource/Text
Resource: QUEST poster
Resource: Lens poster
Text: GILA pages 2–5
Article: Prigg, Mark. “Is a mini ice age on the way? Scientists warn the Sun has ‘gone to sleep’ and say it could
cause temperatures to plunge.” Daily Mail, January 17, 2014.
Practice/Assessment
Introduce QUEST/What do we need on this journey? Introduce eight lenses.
Lens activity with article
Create question
Homework: GILA pages 14–25
Essential Knowledge to Be Introduced
EK 1.1A1: Examining the perspectives and ideas of others often leads to questions for further investigation.
Inquiry begins with narrowing scope of interest, identifying a problem or issue and its origins within that scope,
and situating the problem or issue in a larger context.
Activity 2
Resource/Text
Article: Prigg, Mark. “Is a mini ice age on the way? Scientists warn the Sun has ‘gone to sleep’ and say it could
cause temperatures to plunge.” Daily Mail, January 17, 2014.
Video: The Complete Monty Python’s Flying Circus, Argument Clinic and Birds Dead skits. Directed by Ian
MacNoughton. 1969. A&E, 2005. DVD.
Practice/Assessment
Define argument
Define line of reasoning
Groups: Find main ideas and support
Find evidence and line of reasoning
Essential Knowledge to Be Introduced
EK 2.1A1: Reading critically means reading closely to identify the main idea, tone, assumptions, context,
perspective, line of reasoning, and evidence used.
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Seminar: Sample Syllabus 4
Activity 3
Resource/Text
Text: GILA pages 25–31, “The Development of an Argument.”
Text: Finn, Ed. “Harnessing Our Power as Consumers: Cost of Boycotting Sweatshop Goods Offset by the
Benefits.” In Global Issues, Local Arguments: Readings for Writing, by June Johnson. 3rd ed. Boston: Pearson,
2014.
Practice/Assessment
Groups: Find main idea and argument; find evidence and line of reasoning of one perspective.
Introduce acronyms: ARE (argument, reason, evidence) and STAR (sufficiency, typicality, accuracy, relevance).
Revisit previous article using ARE/STAR. [CR2c]
[CR2c] — Students develop and apply discrete skills identified in the learning objectives within the Big Idea 2:
Understand and Analyze.
Essential Knowledge to Be Introduced
EK 2.1A2: Strategies active readers use to preview and prioritize a written text include skimming, scanning,
rereading, and questioning.
EK 2.1A3: Strategies active readers use to make meaning from texts include annotating, note-taking, highlighting,
and reading aloud.
EK 2.1B1: The main idea of an argument is often stated in the thesis statement, claim, or conclusion, or implied
throughout a work.
EK 2.2A1: Authors use reasons to support their arguments. The line of reasoning is composed of one or more
claims justified through evidence.
Activity 4
Resource/Text
Article: Sutherland, Paige. “Massachusetts mayor: Stop sending my city refugees.” Daily Mail, June 23, 2014.
Article: Stakelbeck, Erick. “Somali Muslims Changing Small Town.” CBN News, May 19, 2009.
Practice/Assessment
Find main idea and argument; find evidence and line of reasoning of one perspective (ARE/STAR).
Introduce analysis sheet.
Essential Knowledge to Be Introduced
EK 2.1A4: Perspectives are shared through written, spoken, visual, or performance texts. A perspective includes
the writer’s attitude/tone regarding the subject and is expressed through an argument.
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Seminar: Sample Syllabus 4
Unit 1b: Entering the Conversation - The Value of Water [CR1]
[CR1] — Students explore complexities of one or more themes by making connections within, between, and/or
among multiple cross-curricular areas and by exploring multiple perspectives and lenses (e.g., cultural and social,
artistic and philosophical, political and historical, environmental, economic, scientific, futuristic, ethical) related to
those themes.
Activities/Assignments
Activity 1
Resource/Text
Artwork: Frus, Adam. How much is left? 2007. Fused and slump glass, sculpted glass.
Text excerpt: Coleridge, Samuel Taylor. The Rime of the Ancient Mariner. New York: Dover, 2015. (literary text)
[CR3]
Focus quote: “Water, water, everywhere, nor any drop to drink.” Samuel Taylor Coleridge
[CR3]
— Students gain a rich appreciation and understanding of the issues through the following activities: reading
articles and research studies; reading foundational, literary, and philosophical texts; viewing and listening to speeches,
broadcasts, and/or personal accounts; and experiencing artistic works and performances
Practice/Assessment
Introduce OPTIC (overview, parts, title/text, interrelationship, conclusion) for visual argument to analyze art.
Read and discuss text/quote.
Discuss how text is related to art piece.
Argument/claim: Brainstorm water issues and complete lens activity with perspectives.
Compare to teacher made lens chart.
Reflection journal: What is your perspective on water? Has it changed? If so, why?
Homework: Five photo images that create an argument about water.
Essential Knowledge to Be Introduced
EK 2.1A4: Perspectives are shared through written, spoken, visual, or performance texts. A perspective includes
the writer’s attitude/tone regarding the subject and is expressed through an argument.
EK 1.1B2: The inquiry process allows one to draw upon curiosity and imagination to engage with ideas or explore
approaches to complex issues.
EK 1.2A2: A variety of strategies (e.g., brainstorming, concept mapping, prewriting, exploration of space,
drafting) can be used to illustrate, organize, and connect ideas.
EK 1.1A1: Examining the perspectives and ideas of others often leads to questions for further investigation.
Inquiry begins with narrowing scope of interest, identifying a problem or issue and its origins within that scope,
and situating the problem or issue in a larger context.
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Activity 2
Resource/Text
Documentary: Last Call At The Oasis. Directed by Jessica Yu. Docudrama, 2012. DVD.
Resource: Last Call At The Oasis classroom guide
Practice/Assessment
While viewing students are to:
Find lenses
Find argument/claim(s)
Find line of reasoning
Find evidence
Identify biases
Reflection writing: What questions have this documentary created? Has it changed your position on water? Has it
solidified it? How and why?
Essential Knowledge to Be Introduced
EK 1.2A3: Inquiry confirms or challenges one’s existing understandings, assumptions, beliefs, and/or knowledge.
EK 2.2A1: Authors use reasons to support their arguments. The line of reasoning is composed of one or more
claims justified through evidence.
EK 3.1A1: An individual’s perspective is influenced by his or her background (e.g., experiences, culture,
education), assumptions, and worldview, as well as by external sources.
Activity 3
Resource/Text
Text: GILA pages 212–215, “Changing Lives with Water”
Resource: Lens map
Practice/Assessment
Identify lenses present; are there other possible lenses?
Identify argument and claim.
Photo images due: Present to class and defend both process and argument.
Essential Knowledge to Be Introduced
EK 1.1A1: Examining the perspectives and ideas of others often leads to questions for further investigation.
Inquiry begins with narrowing scope of interest, identifying a problem or issue and its origins within that scope,
and situating the problem or issue in a larger context.
EK 1.2A3: Inquiry confirms or challenges one’s existing understandings, assumptions, beliefs, and/or knowledge.
Activity 4
Resource/Text
Text: GILA pages 215–218, “Address to the UN General Assembly on the Need to Conserve Water”
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Resource: Article analysis template
Practice/Assessment [CR2c]
Read article as a class and discuss in groups.
Introduce RAVEN (credibility).
Complete analysis sheet. Focus on argument and evidence. “Was anything oversimplified? Is there something that
could be misinterpreted? What are the implications? Is there a solution proposed?”
[CR2c]
— Students develop and apply discrete skills identified in the learning objectives within the Big Idea 2:
Understand and Analyze.
Essential Knowledge to Be Introduced
EK 2.2A4: A lack of understanding of the complexities of an argument (tone, implications, limitations, nuance,
context) can lead to oversimplification and/or generalization.
EK 2.2A2: An argument’s line of reasoning is organized based on the argument’s purpose (e.g., to show causality,
to define, to propose a solution) to lead to a conclusion.
EK 1.4A2: Credibility of evidence depends on use of sources and data that are relevant and reliable (current,
authoritative).
Activity 5
Resource/Text
Songs: Handel, George Frederic. Water Music. 2002. MP3. (artistic work) [CR3]
Poem: Frost, Robert. “Going for Water.” In A Boy’s Will. Fairfield, IA: 1st World, 2004.
Resource: Map of U.S. and Florida
Resource: Research question template
Resource: C-SPAN Student Cam website
Practice/Assessment
Listen to water music/read poem. Identify connecting ideas. Connect to water issues identified prior in class.
Color maps pinpoint water sources.
Create one water research question per group via template process/compare to teacher.
Introduce C-SPAN projects and discuss how they relate to water unit and how to proceed.
Outline roles, topics, and calendar.
Create Google document to share/work on collaboratively.
[CR3]
— Students gain a rich appreciation and understanding of the issues through the following activities: reading
articles and research studies; reading foundational, literary, and philosophical texts; viewing and listening to speeches,
broadcasts, and/or personal accounts; and experiencing artistic works and performances.
Essential Knowledge to Be Introduced
EK 4.2A1: Evidence can be collected from print and non-print sources (e.g., libraries, museums, archives),
experts, or data gathered in the field (e.g., interviews, questionnaires, observations).
EK 1.5A1: The way the problem is posed, situated, framed, or contextualized will guide the inquiry process and
influence the type of information needed and the appropriate method of gathering it.
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EK 2.1B2: Artistic works (e.g., painting, film, music, dance) convey a perspective. Analysis of a work’s context,
subject, structure, style, and aesthetic is critical to understanding its aims.
EK 5.2B3: Teams function at their best when they practice effective interpersonal communication, consensus
building, conflict resolution, and negotiation.
Activity 6
Resource/Text
Blog: Fine Maron, Dina. “Global Water Shortages Grow Worse but Nations Have Few Answers.” Scientific
American, August 1, 2013.
Article: Deen, Thalif. “U.N. Decries Water as Weapon of War in Military Conflicts.” Inter Press Service News
Agency, May 19, 2014.
Practice/Assessment
Read as a class and discuss in groups and as whole class.
Article analysis via RAVEN (credibility), ARE (argument), and STAR (evidence).
Complete analysis sheet. Focus on argument and evidence.
Was anything oversimplified? Is there something that could be misinterpreted? What are the implications? Is there
a solution proposed or ones that are missing? Compare issues noted in the article.
End-of-Course Exam practice:
Identify author’s arguments. Identify claims the author uses to develop line of reasoning. Evaluate the
effectiveness of the author’s use of evidence to support his/her argument.
Use leads to help structure essay. [CR2h]
[CR2h]
— Students develop and apply written and oral communication skills identified in the learning objectives
within the Big Idea 5: Team, Transform, and Transmit.
Essential Knowledge to Be Introduced
EK 5.2B4: Effective teams consider the use of online collaborative tools.
EK 2.2B1: An argument’s context (time and purpose) and situation (in relation to other arguments) inform its
interpretation.
EK 2.2A5: Effective arguments acknowledge other arguments and/or respond to them with counterarguments
(e.g., concession, refutation, rebuttal).
EK 2.2C1: An argument is valid when there is logical alignment between the line of reasoning and the conclusion.
EK 4.1A1: Effective arguments use reason and evidence to convey a perspective, point of view, or some version
of the truth that is stated or implied in the thesis and/or conclusion.
EK 4.1A2: Effective arguments are supported and unified by carefully chosen and connected claims, reason, and
evidence.
EK 5.1B3: Precision in word choice reduces confusion, wordiness, and redundancy.
EK 5.1B4: Spelling and grammar errors detract from credibility.
EK 5.3A2: Learning requires practice through an iterative process of thinking/rethinking, vision/revision, and
writing/rewriting.
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Activity 7
Resource/Text
Article: Marshall, Christa, and ClimateWire. “Will Water Become the Chief Commodity of the 21st Century?”
Scientific American, September 19, 2012.
Practice/Assessment
Introduce inductive and deductive reasoning.
Article analysis: RAVEN, STAR, ARE.
Analyze articles for inductive/deductive reasoning. Which is more effective and why?
Essential Knowledge to Be Introduced
EK 2.2A3: Inductive reasoning uses specific observations and/or data points to identify trends, make
generalizations, and draw conclusions. Deductive reasoning uses broad facts or generalizations to generate
additional, more specific conclusions about a phenomenon.
Activity 8
Resource/Text
Resource: Research databases
Practice/Assessment
Reflection (written): “What recurring questions do you have that are not being answered?”
Homework: Research four articles with four different perspectives on water (include one on fracking).
Essential Knowledge to Be Introduced
EK 1.3A2: Online databases (e.g., EBSCO, ProQuest, JSTOR, Google Scholar) and libraries catalog and house
secondary and some primary sources.
EK 1.3A3: Advanced search tools, Boolean logic, and key words allow scholars to refine, focus, and/or limit their
searches based on a variety of factors (e.g., date, peer-review status, type of publication).
EK 1.4A1: The scope and purpose of one’s research and the credibility of sources affects the generalizability and
the reliability of the conclusions.
Activity 9
Resource/Text
Website: Survey Monkey (survey development)
Practice/Assessment
Develop a water survey based on research question created. Analyze results. How do they support or fail to
support the research and research question?
Essential Knowledge to Be Introduced
EK 2.2B2: Writers use qualitative and/or quantitative evidence (e.g., facts, data, observations, predictions,
analogies, explanations, opinions) to support their claims. Evidence has varying degrees of validity.
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Activity 10
Resource/Text
Video: WPTV. “Toxic Water.” YouTube video, 3:55. Posted February 10, 2014. (broadcast) [CR3]
Article: Nelson, Bill. “Congress Approves Funding to Battle Toxic Algae in Florida Waterways.” Bill Nelson
Florida, July 17, 2014.
Article: “Florida Waters Alive with Toxic Algae.” Environmental News Service, August 21, 2013.
Article: “Best Management Practices enrollment encouraged by FDACS.” Florida Farm Bureau, June 8, 2010.
Student-selected research articles
[CR3]
— Students gain a rich appreciation and understanding of the issues through the following activities: reading
articles and research studies; reading foundational, literary, and philosophical texts; viewing and listening to speeches,
broadcasts, and/or personal accounts; and experiencing artistic works and performances
Practice/Assessment
Homework: Assignment related to four articles due.
ARE analysis (RAVEN, STAR). Find common themes/claims/evidence. [CR2c]
Evaluate perspectives and indicate what is missing. [CR2d]
Review/explicitly teach MLA format for works cited and in text citations. [CR4a]
Introduce argumentative synthesis essay. [CR2e]
Introduce use of frames in writing (introduction and topic sentences).
Writing argument using inductive and deductive reasoning.
Look at student examples.
[CR2c]
— Students develop and apply discrete skills identified in the learning objectives within the Big Idea 2:
Understand and Analyze.
[CR2d] — Students develop and apply discrete skills identified in the learning objectives within the Big Idea 3:
Evaluate Multiple Perspectives.
[CR4a] — Students develop an understanding of ethical research practices.
[CR2e] — Students develop and apply discrete skills identified in the learning objectives within the Big Idea 4:
Synthesize Ideas.
Essential Knowledge to Be Introduced
EK 2.2B3: Authors strategically include evidence to support their claims.
EK 3.1A2: Perspectives are not always oppositional; they may be concurring, complementary, or competing.
EK 3.2A1 Critical thinkers are aware that some arguments may appeal to emotions, core values, personal biases
and assumptions, and logic.
EK 4.2A2: Evidence is used to support the claims and reasoning of an argument. Compelling evidence is
sufficient, accurate, relevant, current, and credible to support the conclusion.
EK 4.2A3: Evidence is strategically chosen based on context, purpose, and audience. Evidence may be used to
align an argument with authority; to define a concept, illustrate a process, or clarify a statement; to set a mood; to
provide an example; to amplify or qualify a point.
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EK 4.1A5: The line of reasoning is a clear, logical path leading the audience through the reasons to a conclusion.
EK 4.1A4: Effective arguments acknowledge other arguments and/or respond to them with counterarguments
(e.g., concession, refutation, rebuttal).
EK 4.1A6: The logic and reasoning of an argument may be deductive (claim followed by evidence) or inductive
(evidence leads to a conclusion).
Activity 11
Resource/Text
Article: Pittman, Craig. “Florida’s water woes are seen as urgent - except in the House.” Tampa Bay Times,
February 28, 2014.
Article: “Farmers A Sweet Success For The Everglades.” American Sugar Alliance, March 2007.
Article: “Farm Practices.” Florida Dairy Farmers.
Article: “Florida Faces Vanishing Water Supply.” NPR, June 15, 2007.
Article: Borisova, Tatiana, and Roy R. Carriker. “Public Policy and Water in Florida.” EDIS/ University of
Florida IFAS Extension, December 2013.
Blog: Mullin, Thomas. “Water Managers Team Up to Develop Solution to Central Florida’s Water Supply Issue.”
Florida Environmental & Water Law (blog), November 13, 2013.
Article: “A Three-State Competition for Water and Growth: The escalating water conflict between Alabama,
Florida, and Georgia.” Growing Blue, April 4, 2011.
Article: McCoy, Kevin. “Nation’s water costs rushing higher.” USA Today, September 27, 2012.
Article: Interlandi, Jeneen. “The New Oil.” Newsweek, October 8, 2010.
Article: Clayton, Mark. “Forget OPEC. The next cartel may export drinking water.” The Christian Science
Monitor, December 30, 2014.
Practice/Assessment
In student groups, each will be given a set of articles.
• Analysis for credibility, perspective
• Types of reasoning
• Line of argument
• Claim and evidence (ARE)
Each group will present findings on articles to the other groups.
Written Reflection: Journal about discussion in class today. How does this help? Where are your frustrations?
Homework - Video: Hidden Rivers of Southern Appalachia. Directed by Jeremy Monroe. Freshwaters Illustrated,
2014. Video from link on Edline. Note all of the above.
Homework - Article: Deutsch, Clausia H. “Business; Companies Hope Profits Run From Clean Water.” New York
Times, February 15, 2004.
Homework - Article: Godrej, Dinyar. “Precious Fluid.” New Internationalist 354 (March 2003).
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Homework - Article: Swomley, John M. “When Blue Becomes Gold.” Humanist 60, no. 5 (Sept/Oct 2000): 5–7.
Essential Knowledge to Be Introduced
EK 2.2A2: An argument’s line of reasoning is organized based on the argument’s purpose (e.g., to show causality,
to define, to propose a solution) to lead to a conclusion.
EK 2.2B5: Evidence may be used to identify and explain relationships (comparative, causal, or correlational)
and/or patterns and trends.
EK 4.1A7: A line of reasoning is organized based on the argument’s purpose (e.g., to show causality, to evaluate,
to define, to propose a solution).
Activity 12
Resource/Text
Articles: Articles from the last two classes
Resource: Example essays
Resource: Google Docs (shared writing)
Practice/Assessment
Introduce what a problem/solution essay looks like and how it is structured.
Groups cull articles used in class and do research for additional articles.
Begin organizing and writing collaborative problem/solution essay (1,800 words). [CR2f]
Rough draft due in one week.
[CR2f]
— Students develop and apply collaboration skills identified in the learning objectives within the Big Idea 5:
Team, Transform, and Transmit.
Essential Knowledge to Be Introduced
EK 4.3A5: Academic disciplines use specific style guides for citing and attributing sources (e.g., APA, MLA,
Chicago, AMA).
EK 5.1B1: A writer expresses tone or attitude about a topic through word choice, sentence structure, and imagery.
EK 5.1B2: Effective sentences create variety, emphasis, and interest through structure, agreement of elements,
placement of modifiers, and consistency of tense.
EK 5.1A2: Coherence is achieved when the elements and ideas in an argument flow logically and smoothly.
Transitions are used to move the audience from one element or idea to another by illustrating the relationship
between the elements or ideas.
EK 4.2B1: Commentary connects the chosen evidence to the claim through interpretation or inference, identifying
patterns, describing trends, and/or explaining relationships (e.g., comparative, causal, correlational).
EK 4.1A8: Claims and supporting evidence are arranged (e.g., spatially, chronologically, order of importance) to
convey reasoning and relationship (e.g., comparative, causal, correlational).
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Activity 13
Resource/Text
Resource: Sinkhole map
Website: United States Department of Agriculture; Natural Resources Conservation Service Florida
Website: South Florida Water Management District
Website: Patrick Murphy’s webpage, Florida’s 18
th
District Representative
Website: U.S. Geological Survey (USGS); USGS Groundwater Information Pages; Groundwater Watch:
Groundwater-Level Data Statistics
Article: Ritter, Ken. “Lake Mead Water Levels Drop to All Time Low In Nevada.” The Huffington Post,
September 8, 2014.
Article: Snyder, Shannyn. “Water Scarcity, the U.S. connection.” The Water Project.
Article: Macheel, Tanaya. “A ‘Footprint’ of Water Use.” International Herald Tribune, November 29, 2010.
Article: Grant, Steve. “America’s Rivers at Risk: The Water Wars.” Hartford Courant, October 23, 2005.
Resource: Logical fallacy handout
Practice/Assessment
Students will evaluate text for use of logical fallacies, effectiveness, and purpose in text. Student will examine
how maps can be used in logical fallacies.
Essential Knowledge to Be Introduced
EK 2.2B4: Writers appeal to (or possibly manipulate) readers through a variety of strategies and techniques (e.g.,
language, authority, qualifiers, fallacies, emphasis).
Activity 14
Resource/Text
Video: McMillan, Don. “Life After Death by Power Point.” YouTube video, 9:28. Filmed 2008.
Handouts: Presentation Tips and Strategies for Student Presentations, page 92; Tips for Effective Multimedia
Presentations, page 93; Presentation Planning Template, page 94.
Practice/Assessment
Show PowerPoint and discuss appropriate ways to present information to a group.
Practice defense and discuss purpose/structure. [CR2h]
[CR2h]
— Students develop and apply written and oral communication skills identified in the learning objectives
within the Big Idea 5: Team, Transform, and Transmit.
Essential Knowledge to Be Introduced
EK 5.1E1: Speakers vary elements of delivery (e.g., volume, tempo, movement, eye contact, vocal variety,
energy) to emphasize information, convey tone, and engage their audience.
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Activity 15
Resource/Text
Resource: Previous articles and student research
Website: Turnitin.com
Practice/Assessment
Teams utilize class time to collaborate on writing, peer edit work for plagiarism, coherence of ideas, argument and
evidence, solutions proposed. [CR2f]
[CR2f]
— Students develop and apply collaboration skills identified in the learning objectives within the Big Idea 5:
Team, Transform, and Transmit.
Essential Knowledge to Be Introduced
EK 5.2A1: Knowing and communicating one’s strengths and challenges to a group allows one’s contributions to
be more effective.
EK 5.2B1: Teams are built around tasks. Low-risk teambuilding activities and simulations enhance a team’s
performance.
EK 5.2B2: Teams function at their best when they understand the diversity of their social-cultural perspectives,
talents, and skills.
EK 4.3A2: Plagiarism is a serious offense that occurs when a person presents another’s ideas or words as his or
her own. Plagiarism may be avoided by acknowledging sources thoroughly and accurately.
EK 4.3A3: Source material should be introduced, integrated, or embedded into the text of an argument.
EK 4.3A4: Quoted and paraphrased material must be properly attributed, credited, and cited following a style
manual. Quoting is using the exact words of others; paraphrasing is restating an idea in one’s own words.
EK 5.1A1: An argument may include the following elements:
• Introduction: engages the audience by providing background and/or context
• Thesis: conveys the main idea of an argument
• Reasons, evidence, and commentary: provide support for the argument
• Counterargument, concession, refutation, and rebuttal: acknowledge and/or respond to opposing
arguments
• Conclusion: synthesizes reasoning, considers possible implications for the future, and ties back to the
introduction
• Bibliography: identifies works cited
Activity 16
Resource/Text
Resource: Written team report
Resource: Individual photo essay
Practice/Assessment
Written team project due [CR2h]
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Individual oral presentations of water photo essay with oral defense [CR2h]
[CR2h] — Students develop and apply written and oral communication skills identified in the learning objectives
within the Big Idea 5: Team, Transform, and Transmit.
Essential Knowledge to Be Introduced
EK 5.1B1: A writer expresses tone or attitude about a topic through word choice, sentence structure, and imagery.
EK 5.1E1: Speakers vary elements of delivery (e.g., volume, tempo, movement, eye contact, vocal variety,
energy) to emphasize information, convey tone, and engage their audience.
Activity 17
Resource/Text
Resource: Reflection on group project
Practice/Assessment
Write a reflection (800 words) on the experience of the team project [CR2g]
[CR2g]
— Students develop and apply reflection skills identified in the learning objectives within the Big Idea 5:
Team, Transform, and Transmit.
Essential Knowledge to Be Introduced
EK 5.3A1: Reflection is an ongoing and recursive process in inquiry, often leading to changes in understanding.
Strategies for reflection may include journal writing, self-questioning, drawing, exploration of space, and/or
guided contemplation.
Unit 2/Quarter 2: Entering the Conversation - Global High Stakes Testing
Essential Questions
From whose perspective is this information being presented and how does this affect my evaluation?
How do I know whether something is true?
What am I taking for granted?
How do I acknowledge and account for my own biases and assumptions?
Do I have balanced research?
What lines of reasoning and evidence would best support my argument?
Is my line of reasoning logical?
What is the best medium or genre to reach my audience?
Learning Objectives Addressed in this Unit
Question and Explore: 1.4A
Understand and Analyze: 2.2B, 2.3A, 2.3B
Evaluate Multiple Perspectives: 3.2A
Synthesize Ideas: 4.1A, 4.4A, 4.5A
Team, Transform, and Transmit: 5.1A, 5.3B [CR2a]
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[CR2a] — The course provides multiple opportunities for students to practice and refine their skills by engaging with
the QUEST process.
***Please note that all Learning Objectives (LO) and Essential Knowledge (EK) that were previously introduced
will be consistently practiced throughout as the second unit progresses. Each continuing LO or EK may not be
explicitly stated in each practice or assessment listed in the unit even though it is being retaught and practiced.
Summative Assessments
Individual Research-Based Essay Practice
Students identify a research question of their own based on the source material and class discussion. They then
gather further information through research. They analyze, evaluate, and select evidence to develop a logical well-
reasoned argument of approximately 1,000 words (800 research/200 reflection). The final paper must refer to and
incorporate at least one of the provided sources.
Individual Presentation Practice
Students develop and present a multimedia presentation (approximately 4–5 minutes) to an audience. Students
then defend their research process, use of evidence, and conclusion through oral answers to two questions asked
by the teacher.
Activities/Assignments
Activity 1
Resource/Text
Video: “Babies Discuss High Stakes Testing.” YouTube video.
Resource: Lens Map
Practice/Assessment
Brainstorm topic of high stakes testing.
Define high stakes testing.
Lens activity: Create lens map for topic and compare to teacher.
Reflection journal: Questions about high stakes testing.
Essential Knowledge to Be Introduced
EK 1.1B1: Effective research questions lead to an examination taking into account the complexity of a problem or
issue.
Activity 2
Resource/Text
Article: Amrein, Audrey L., and David C. Berliner. “A Research Report: The Effect of High Stakes Testing on
Student Motivation and Learning.” Educational Leadership 60, no. 5 (February 2003): 32–38.
Article: Layton, Lyndsey. “As High Stakes Tests Spread Some Students Drop the Pencil.” Washington Post, April
15, 2013.
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Article: Meador, Derrick. “High Stakes Testing: Over Testing in American Schools.” About Education.
Article: Gordon, Larry, and Jason Song. “Errors Could Hurt College Bound.” LA Times, February 10, 2014.
Practice/Assessment
Introduce summative assessments for unit.
Article Analysis Sheet: RAVEN/STAR/ARE.
Essential Knowledge to Be Introduced
EK 2.2B6: Credibility is compromised when authors fail to acknowledge and/or consider the limitations of their
conclusions, opposing views or perspectives, and/or their own biases.
EK 2.3A1: The implications and consequences of arguments may be intended or unintended.
Activity 3
Resource/Text
TED Talk: Sternberg, Bob. “None of the Above - Why Standardized Testing Fails.” Ted Talk video, 11:33.
Article: Munoz, Roberta. “High Stakes Testing Pros and Cons.” Education.com, December 4, 2014.
Article: Ferguson, Andrew. “SAT and Its Enemies.” The Weekly Standard, 14, no. 31 (May 4, 2009).
Article: Banchero, Stephanie. “School-Test Backlash Grows: Some Parents, Teachers, and Boards Rebel, Saying
Education is Being Stifled.” Wall Street Journal, May 16, 2012.
Article: Jackson, Judy. “The Role of Money, Race, and Politics in the Accountability Challenge.” Journal of
Urban Learning, Teaching, and Research 2 (May 2006): 46–55. (article) [CR3]
[CR3]
— Students gain a rich appreciation and understanding of the issues through the following activities: reading
articles and research studies; reading foundational, literary, and philosophical texts; viewing and listening to speeches,
broadcasts, and/or personal accounts; and experiencing artistic works and performances.
Practice/Assessment
Article Analysis Sheet: RAVEN/STAR/ARE perspectives
Reflection: Has your perspective changed or do you need more research? How does the research process help
guide our questions? [CR2g]
Homework: Research articles that relate to high stakes testing. Prepare for debate.
[CR2g]
— Students develop and apply reflection skills identified in the learning objectives within the Big Idea 5:
Team, Transform, and Transmit.
Essential Knowledge to Be Introduced
EK 1.4A3: Determining the credibility of a source requires considering and evaluating the reputation and
credentials of the author, publisher, site owner, and/or sponsor; understanding and evaluating the author’s
perspective and research methods; and considering how others respond to their work. Scholarly articles are often
peer reviewed, meaning the research has been reviewed and accepted by disciplinary experts.
Activity 4
Resource/Text
Resource: Cartoons
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Video: “The Perfect Score.” YouTube video film excerpt. Directed by Brian Robbins. MTV Films, 2004.
Article: Stewart, Alison. “The Perfect Score: Cheating on the SAT.” CBS News, January 1, 2012.
Video: “The Perfect Score: Cheating on the SAT.” CBS News video, 11:04. January 1, 2012.
Article: Amrein-Beardsley, Audrey, David C. Berliner, and Sharon Rideau. “Cheating in the first, second, and
third degree: Educators’ responses to high stakes testing.” Education Policy Analysis Archives, 18, no. 14 (June
30, 2010): 1–36.
Article: Schaffer, Bob. “Overuse of tests feeds cheating: Opposing Views.” USA Today, April 22, 2013.
Article: “In School Scandals, Blame the Cheaters, Not the Tests.” USA Today, April 23, 2013.
Practice/Assessment
Group discussion
Group analysis of articles (analysis sheet)
Share discoveries
Identify perspective and possible biases. How do they affect the presentation and audience? [CR2d]
[CR2d]
— Students develop and apply discrete skills identified in the learning objectives within the Big Idea 3:
Evaluate Multiple Perspectives.
Essential Knowledge to Be Introduced
EK 2.1A4: Perspectives are shared through written, spoken, visual, or performance texts. A perspective includes
the writer’s attitude/tone regarding the subject and is expressed through an argument.
EK 1.2A2: A variety of strategies (e.g., brainstorming, concept mapping, prewriting, exploration of space,
drafting) can be used to illustrate, organize, and connect ideas.
EK 2.2B4: Writers appeal to (or possibly manipulate) readers through a variety of strategies and techniques (e.g.,
language, authority, qualifiers, fallacies, emphasis).
EK 2.3A1: The implications and consequences of arguments may be intended or unintended.
Activity 5
Resource/Text
Article: Goodwyn, Andrew. “One size fits all: The increasing standardization of English teacher’s work in
England.” English Teaching: Practice and Critique 11, no. 4 (December 2012): 36–53.
Article: Leistyna, Pepi. “Corporate Testing: Standards, Profits, and the Demise of the Public Sphere.” Teacher
Education Quarterly (Spring 2007).
Article: “The Testing Industry’s Big Four.” PBS/Frontline.
Article: Singer, Alan. “Why Pearson Tests Our Kids.” The Huffington Post, August 11, 2014.
Practice/Assessment
Group discussion
Group analysis of articles (analysis sheet)
Share discoveries
Identify perspective and possible biases. How do they affect the presentation and audience?
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Essential Knowledge to Be Introduced
EK 3.2A2: When evaluating multiple perspectives or arguments, consideration must be given to how one’s own
personal biases and assumptions can influence one’s judgment.
Activity 6
Resource/Text
Website: Survey Monkey (survey development)
Practice/Assessment
Students create a survey on high stakes questions and analyze the data.
Essential Knowledge to Be Introduced
EK 4.2A1: Evidence can be collected from print and non-print sources (e.g., libraries, museums, archives),
experts, or data gathered in the field (e.g., interviews, questionnaires, observations).
Activity 7
Resource/Text
Article: Jacobs, Brian A. “Accountability, Incentives, and Behavior: The Impact of High Stakes Testing in the
Chicago Public Schools.” National Bureau of Economic Research, working paper 8968.
Article: Mellon, Ericka. “Students Need Less High Stakes Testing Business Groups Say.” Chron, December 12,
2012.
Article: Nichols, Sharon, Gene V. Glass, and David C. Berliner “High-stakes Testing and Student Achievement:
Updated Analysis with NAEP Data.” Education Policy Analysis Archives 20, no. 20 (July 20, 2012): 1–35.
Article: Heubert, Jay PAGE “High Stakes Testing: Opportunity and Risks for Students of Color, English-
Language Learners, Students with Disabilities.” National Center on Accessible Instructors Materials (2002).
Article: Klein, Rebecca. “School’s Letter Reminds Students That They Are More Than Just Test Scores.” The
Huffington Post, July 15, 2014.
Practice/Assessment
Analysis of articles
Discuss rebuttals if present. How are opposing viewpoints handled? Are their perspectives addressed?
Formulate a research question that has not been answered. [CR2b]
[CR2b]
— Students develop and apply discrete skills identified in the learning objectives within the Big Idea 1:
Question and Explore.
Essential Knowledge to Be Introduced
EK 1.1B1: Effective research questions lead to an examination taking into account the complexity of a problem or
issue.
EK 2.2B6: Credibility is compromised when authors fail to acknowledge and/or consider the limitations of their
conclusions, opposing views or perspectives, and/or their own biases.
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Activity 8
Resource/Text
Article: “The Trouble with High-stakes Testing.” National Center for Learning Disabilities.
Article: Turner, Cory. “U.S. Tests Teens A Lot, But Worldwide, Exam Stakes Are Higher.” NPR, April 30, 2014.
Article: Sanchez, Claudio. “As Testing Season Opens in Schools, Some Ask: How Much is Too Much?” NPR,
April 30, 2014.
Practice/Assessment
Analysis of articles
Discuss rebuttals if present. How are opposing viewpoints handled? Are their perspectives addressed?
Do you have additional questions that have not been answered?
Essential Knowledge to Be Introduced
EK 3.1A2: Perspectives are not always oppositional; they may be concurring, complementary, or competing.
EK 2.3B1: Arguments are significant and have real-world impact because they can influence behavior (e.g., call
one to action, suggest logical next steps).
EK 4.1A3: Qualifiers place limits on how far a claim may be carried. Effective arguments acknowledge these
limits, increasing credibility by reducing overgeneralization or oversimplification.
Activity 9
Resource/Text
Article: Olson, Lynn. “Special Report: Testing Takes Off: State Test Programs Mushroom as NCLB Mandate
Kicks In.” Education Week, November 30, 2005.
Article: Bobkoff, Dan. “New York Parents Opt Out of High Stakes Test.” Marketplace, April 30, 2014.
Article: “High Stakes Tests Makes Kids Sick.” New Action – UFT (blog), October 12, 2013.
Article: Christian, Sonya Colman. “High-Stakes Testing and its Relationship to Stress Levels of Secondary
Teachers.” Proquest (2010).
Article: Karatas, Hakan, Bulent Alcim, and Hasan Aydin. “Correlation among high school senior students’ test
anxiety, academic performance and points of university entrance exam.” Academic Journals 8, no. 13 (July 10,
2013): 919–926.
Article: Manning, Carrie, Jasna Aliefendic, MaryAnne Chiarelli, Leslie Haas, and Susan Williams. “Inspirational
Impetuous: Lifelong Learning.” SRATE Journal 21, no. 1 (Winter 2011–2012): 11–17.
Article: Hurwitz, Nina, and Sol Hurwitz. “Tests that Count.” American School Board Journal 187, no. 1 (January
2000): 20–25.
Article: “Educational Tests and Measurements Timeline.” Proquest, Leading Issues Timeline (2015).
Article: Shepard, Lorrie, and Katherine Cutts Dougherty. “Effects of High-Stakes Testing on Instruction.”
University of Colorado at Boulder.
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PowerPoint: Popham, W. James. “Don’t Use a Tablespoon to Measure Temperature: The Importance of Using
Instructionally Supportive, Standards-based Accountability Tests.” PowerPoint, 47 slides.
Article: “Appropriate Use of High-Stakes Testing in Our Nation’s Schools.” American Psychological Association.
Article: Coggins, Celine. “Debate over standardized testing is focusing on the wrong questions.” Christian
Science Monitor, April 3, 2014.
Resource: Class articles and group research
Practice/Assessment
In groups divide text. Analyze (RAVEN, STAR, ARE); present to class.
Look to see if solutions were developed
Group report and discussion
Essential Knowledge to Be Introduced
EK 2.3B1: Arguments are significant and have real-world impact because they can influence behavior (e.g., call
one to action, suggest logical next steps).
EK 3.2A2: When evaluating multiple perspectives or arguments, consideration must be given to how one’s own
personal biases and assumptions can influence one’s judgment.
EK 4.4A1: Innovative solutions and arguments identify and challenge assumptions, acknowledge the importance
of content, imagine and explore alternatives, and engage in reflective skepticism.
EK 4.1A9: The same argument may be organized, arranged, or supported in multiple ways depending on audience
and context.
Activity 10
Resource/Text
Resource: Class articles and group research
Resource: Notes while debate goes on
Practice/Assessment
Prepare an opening statement in which students lay out their argument.
In-class debate on high stakes testing, synthesizing articles and research. [CR2e]
[CR2e]
— Students develop and apply discrete skills identified in the learning objectives within the Big Idea 4:
Synthesize Ideas.
Essential Knowledge to Be Introduced
EK 2.3A1: The implications and consequences of arguments may be intended or unintended.
EK 4.4A1: Innovative solutions and arguments identify and challenge assumptions, acknowledge the importance
of content, imagine and explore alternatives, and engage in reflective skepticism.
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Activity 11
Resource/Text
Resource: Class articles and group/individual research
Practice/Assessment
In-class work on individual and team performance task.
Essential Knowledge to Be Introduced
EK 4.5A1: When proposing a solution, the advantages and disadvantages of the options and alternatives should be
weighed against the goal within its context.
EK 5.1C1: Effective organizational and design elements (e.g., headings, layout, illustrations, pull quotes,
captions, lists) may aid in audience engagement and understanding by calling attention to important information
and/or creating emotional responses in the audience. Ineffective use or overuse of these elements disrupts
audience engagement and understanding.
EK 5.1C2: Data and other information can be presented graphically (e.g., infographics, graphs, tables, models) to
aid audience understanding and interpretation.
Activity 12
Resource/Text
Resource: Multimedia presentation
Practice/Assessment
Individual presentation and oral defense
Essential Knowledge to Be Introduced
EK 5.1B1: A writer expresses tone or attitude about a topic through word choice, sentence structure, and imagery.
EK 5.1E1: Speakers vary elements of delivery (e.g., volume, tempo, movement, eye contact, vocal variety,
energy) to emphasize information, convey tone, and engage their audience.
Activity 13
Resource/Text
Resource: Group research
Practice/Assessment
Reflection of the group process
Essential Knowledge to Be Introduced
EK 5.3B1: Reflective contributors acknowledge the impact of their actions on the outcome of the group’s efforts,
noting the reasons for such actions, assumptions made, and whether or not such actions and assumptions hindered
or helped the achievement of the group’s goals.
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Quarter 3/Quarter 4
Seminar Performance Tasks
Performance Task 1: Team Project and Presentation
Students work in teams of three to five to identify, investigate, and analyze an academic or real-world problem or
issue. Each team designs and/or considers options and evaluates alternatives; develops a multimedia presentation
to present the argument for their proposed solution or resolution; and provides a defense to questions posed by the
teacher. [CR5]
[CR5]
— Students work collaboratively with a team to identify, investigate, analyze, and evaluate a real-world or
academic problem or issue; consider and evaluate alternatives or options; propose one or more solutions or resolutions;
and present and defend the argument for their solutions through a multimedia presentation.
Performance Task 2: Individual Research-Based Essay and Presentation
The College Board’s AP Program will annually release cross-curricular source material (texts) representing a
range of perspectives focused on a single theme or topic. Students will use these texts to identify a research
question of their own; conduct research; analyze, evaluate, and select evidence to develop an argument; and
present and defend their conclusion. The final paper must refer to and incorporate at least one of the provided
sources. [CR6] Students have 30 school days to complete their research, compose their essays, and develop their
presentations.
[CR6]
— Students work independently to identify a research question based on provided stimulus material; research
the issue; analyze, evaluate, and select evidence to develop an argument; present and defend a conclusion; and produce
a multimedia presentation to be delivered to their peers.
AP Seminar End-of-Course Exam
During the AP Exam administration window, students will take the AP Seminar End-of-Course Exam. The exam
consists of four items (three short-answer and one essay question). The three short-answer questions assess
analysis of an argument in a single source or document. The essay question assesses students’ skills in
synthesizing and creating an evidence-based argument. The End-of-Course Exam will take place in May, during
the AP exam administration window.
Introduction to AP Research
Students will utilize the remainder of Quarter 4 to research and discuss options for their upcoming research
project in AP Research.
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