Lights, Camera....Debate!

[Frank W. Baker]

Four years ago, my colleague Karen Zill and I published an essay in Cable In The Classroom magazine about the importance of how to watch a presidential debate. I have just resurrected that essay, and the accompanying debate watcher's worksheet, because although dated, it still offers students (and others) valuable information. The worksheet asks students to consider the setting,  the techniques of persuasion, favorite phrases,  rehearsed responses, camera cutaways, and post-debate analysis. I hope you will share this with those who plan to engage students in the upcoming debates and the media coverage of same.