Directions / Explanation:

To wrap-up our thematic unit on Africa, we will engage in a Socratic Seminar in which an important topic will be discussed.  This topic will be named the “Seminar Proposal” and will reflect the theme of “Unresolved Problems of the Modern World.”

1.  The Seminar Proposal will be presented to the students.

2.  Each student will be given a piece of paper from the instructor with one of the following titles on it:  “Pro,” “Con,” or “Choice.”

3.  Pro’s must argue and present evidence supporting the seminar proposal.

4.  Con’s must argue and present evidence against the seminar proposal.

5.  Choice’s may decide to take either side to argue and present evidence on.

6.  Each student will be allowed class time to begin reviewing course notes, assignments, to consult with one another and the instructor regarding the seminar proposal and the relation of course materials.

7.  On the selected date of the Socratic Seminar, the instructor will address the seminar proposal, and open the floor up to discussion regarding the topic.

8.  Students will receive points based on the following Structure:   150 Points Possible

          *50 Points Possible for: the written position regarding the seminar proposal in which specific evidence and examples are cited in a neat and orderly fashion.  Each position should have an identifiable Thesis Statement regarding the position.  *(DQ Format may be ideal for this section).  Students are to use their written positions as reference during the Seminar, and may make additional notes and comments to themselves during the proceedings.  Each student's written position must be in line with his/her assigned role for the seminar, and will be turned into the instructor at day’s end.

           *100 Points Possible for:  contribution to and behavior during the Seminar.  Each student must orally participate at least once during the proceedings.  Participation need not simply be read from the written position for the seminar, but may come in the form of a response made to a fellow student, or the instructor.  Each student must maintain his/her assigned role during the seminar and may not ‘break character.’  Points may be deducted during the seminar for this, and other inappropriate / misguided comments, for interrupting the proceedings, speaking without being recognized by the instructor and by appearing disengaged.  Extra Credit points may be earned by continued contributions throughout the seminar, which elevate the discussion.  Extra credit may also be earned based on the quality of singular comments. 

Seminar Proposal:

Given the legacy of foreign interference on the African continent, should the United States and/or the United Nations involve itself in the affairs of Africa.

Points to consider:  The first encounters of Europeans to Africa, the Slave Trade, Colonialism/Imperialism, the creation of countries in Africa, the intervention/lack of intervention in such events (but not limited to), as:  Apartheid, disease control, The Black Sea Episode ("Blackhawk Down"), modern slavery, terrorism, the Rwandan Genocide, Liberia civil unrest, Nigeria on the brink, etc.