The Man In The Black Suit

Use this activity to engage all types of learners, while requiring that they refer to and incorporate details from the text over the course of the activity.

“Debate”

In this activity, students will debate whether Gary should still fear the Devil.

Gary is now in his 90s, and as he sits in his nursing home, he contemplates death and wonders if he will see the Devil again. Should he still fear the Devil? Prepare to debate this question with your classmates.

Part A: Assemble Evidence

• Team 1 will argue the claim “Gary should fear the Devil.” Team 2 will argue the claim “Gary should not fear the Devil.” Each team should do the following:

o Brainstorm at least three reasons that support your claim. Find at least five quotes that support your reasons.

o Prepare counterarguments! Find at least five quotes that support the other team’s claim. As you consider what they might argue, establish an argument against these points. How can you acknowledge their claim and then respond to it with your stronger claim?

o Divide roles among your team. Everyone needs to speak at least once during the debate. Refer to the debate outline below.

Part B: Debate

• Outline of debate:

○ Team 1 will present their claim.