I don't like this one because it buys into the Presidential synthesis. I like it because it makes the kids argue both bests and worsts.

The first 17 presidents of the United states were: George Washington, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, James Monroe, John Quincy Adams, Andrew Jackson, Martin Van Buren, William Henry Harrison, John Tyler, James Polk, Zachary Taylor, Millard Fillmore, Franklin Pierce, James Buchanan, Abraham Lincoln, Andrew Johnson. First, rank these in order from best to worst. Second, explain why the person you rank best comes before the second person on the list. Third, explain why the person you rank worst comes after the penultimate person on the list. Note, "chocolate cake" arguments will get an instant 5 point penalty; make sure you discuss at least 4 presidents.

I predict that if I use this, the winners will mostly be: Washington, Lincoln, Jefferson, and Jackson; the losers will mostly be: Buchanon, Tyler, Jackson, and Andrew Johnson.

EDIT - linked to chocolate cake argument

Posted by Red Ted at December 12, 2004 09:58 PM | TrackBack