Controversial Issues Project

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Social Studies 10 – Controversial Issue Project

In pairs you are to complete the following assignment due Monday January 15, 2007.

You were recently at the video store when you witnessed a group of teenagers watching one youth beat up another. You intervened and broke the fight up. In the process you were punched by one of the onlookers and lost a tooth. The youth that hit you has a previous record and was recently tried in court. The judge gave him consequences outside the formal court process, i.e. community service for his second assault charge.

As a result of incidents like the above, many citizens are questioning the effectiveness of the Youth Criminal Justice Act. So much so, that there are special interest groups attempting to lobby for a reformed act or new legislation to deal with youth crime.

Assume that you are a member of the above special interest group and complete the following. Keep in mind that you have been a victim of youth crime, as mentioned above, and feel that there needs to be a “get tough approach” and “harsher punishments” (view 1 - stated in the YOA assignment we recently studied).

Letter to your Member of Parliament (MP) – approximately a page in length. You must follow the format of the example provided. Your letter must address the concerns of the group specifying how you and others have been personally affected. As well suggest, in detail, any reforms, or other important information, you feel necessary.

Petition – approximately a page in length including the area for signatures. You must follow the format of the example provided. It should have a clear and concise question that reflects the concerns of your group.

Organize a rally – type up a ½ to ¾ of a page explanation of a rally that will take place. Please consider the five w’s and how?

Assessment:

1. Communication of ideas /10

2. Grammar /10

3. Creativity and neatness /5

Total /25

Examples were provided to students in a booklet. You could look for examples on the internet of "letter to MP" and "petition." Good Luck!

***IF YOU ARE AT HOME TODAY AND WOULD LIKE TO HAVE LESS TO DO WHEN YOU RETURN, YOU COULD COMPLETE THIS ASSIGNMENT AT HOME.