Phase 1: Classroom Deliberation Using Parliamentary Procedure
Best for individual teachers interested in a more interactive and experiential style of teaching, or schools which find the Legislative Semester appealing but would like to explore it first without committing to the full program.
It may seem daunting to imagine adopting a comprehensive semester-long curriculum like the Legislative Semester. Don’t despair! Although some schools have successfully implemented the entire program at once, it is also possible to adopt in phases, or to utilize only some elements of the program. Every page in each option is a downloadable document ready for you to use in your classroom. For more information about each element of the course, see the Curriculum page.
Individual teachers can incorporate one of the core features of the Legislative Semester into their previously established program of teaching. The first part of every semester is devoted to the exploration of current controversial public policy issues using classroom deliberation. The main goals are to provide opportunities for students to:
explore current controversies and develop their own opinions on issues.
provide frequent and authentic opportunities to articulate their ideas and support their opinions with evidence and reasons.
express their ideas using civil discourse while listening to and respecting the varied opinions of others.
learn about the foundations of American Government through the lens of live policy debates.
Parliamentary procedure is used to structure discussions and gives students an authentic experience in using the formal rules that govern public bodies. This method helps to facilitate a controlled environment that promotes equal participation in the discussion of controversial issues. In the current political environment of increased polarization and vitriolic rhetoric, teachers who may be nervous about bringing up issues like immigration policy, race, abortion rights or gun control, find the use of the formal structures of parliamentary procedure helpful. The supporting materials provide guidance for implementing parliamentary procedure as well as other aspects of classroom deliberation.
MaterialS
Parliamentary Procedure: Basic Instructions
The use of parliamentary procedure provides a formal structure to maintain order during deliberation of contested issues such as immigration policy, social class, gender inequality, racism, abortion rights, or gun control. The rules for discussion are rooted in the authentic structure of democratic decision making used by deliberative bodies of all types. ‘'
House Rules: Basic Points and Motions
It is advisable to use “House Rules” based on Roberts Rules of Order, rather than using the entire suite of parliamentary points and motions. Most public bodies use a tailored version of the rules that is written into ordinance or simply based on long standing norms. These house rules can be amended as needed, but should adhere to the spirit of providing equal voice for all and ensuring civil discourse.
Sample Chair Script for Day 1: Introduction to Parliamentary Procedure and Deliberation
Running your class using parliamentary procedure simulates a public meeting, or a legislative committee hearing. Teachers who are less familiar with the structure and language of parliamentary procedure may want to use a script during the first days of class to provide guidance and model the formal language and elements of this structure. Initially the teacher acts as Chair, however, this role could be transferred to students as they become familiar with the role and responsibilities. Providing students with the opportunity to function as the Chair contributes to the sense of student ownership of the discussion.
Using Resolutions
Issues for classroom discussion are presented to students as resolutions. Decision making and legislative bodies of all types pass resolutions to formally state the will or position of the body on an issue. Resolutions do not typically hold the force of a law or ordinance, and may pertain to issues about with the body does not have authority. In the classroom resolutions are the mechanism through which students learn about current and contested issues, constitutional controversies, or perennial tensions within our system of government. Resolutions should be worded to ask members to support or oppose the creation or abolition of a law, practice, or policy.
Amending Resolutions
Incorporating the amendment process can enliven the discussion as well as draw more students into the conversation
These resolutions provide a variety of options ranging from restrictions on teen drivers, to abortion restrictions, and allow students to become familiar with the parliamentary rules, scaffolding controversy.
Sample Agenda for Day 1: Introduction of Parliamentary Procedure and Deliberation
This agenda is paired with the script above, and provides links to a resolution as well as resources to explore the importance of Civil Discourse.