Engage students in critical thinking and research by exploring the implications of food colouring on health and the environment. Students will participate in a structured debate to assess different perspectives and develop informed opinions.Materials neededResearch resources including internet access, library books, scientific journals, a whiteboard or digital platform for presenting arguments, and a debate rubric for assessment, focusing on clarity of argument, use of evidence, and presentation style.Begin by introducing the topic of food colouring, its common uses in the industry, and why it's a contentious issue. Divide the class into teams, with each team assigned a stance on synthetic food colouring—one supporting its use and the other opposing it due to potential health risks and environmental impacts. Allow teams 30 minutes to research their positions, encouraging them to gather evidence from a variety of sources including scientific studies, expert opinions, and industry statements. After research, teams will spend 20 minutes preparing their arguments and possible rebuttals. The debate itself will last 30 minutes, with each team given equal time to present their arguments and respond to rebuttals, using the evidence they have collected. This exercise will help students develop their analytical thinking and effective communication, essential skills for both academic and personal growth.
Engage students in critical thinking and research by exploring the implications of food colouring on health and the environment. Students will participate in a structured debate to assess different perspectives and develop informed opinions.Materials neededResearch resources including internet access, library books, scientific journals, a whiteboard or digital platform for presenting arguments, and a debate rubric for assessment, focusing on clarity of argument, use of evidence, and presentation style.Begin by introducing the topic of food colouring, its common uses in the industry, and why it's a contentious issue. Divide the class into teams, with each team assigned a stance on synthetic food colouring—one supporting its use and the other opposing it due to potential health risks and environmental impacts. Allow teams 30 minutes to research their positions, encouraging them to gather evidence from a variety of sources including scientific studies, expert opinions, and industry statements. After research, teams will spend 20 minutes preparing their arguments and possible rebuttals. The debate itself will last 30 minutes, with each team given equal time to present their arguments and respond to rebuttals, using the evidence they have collected. This exercise will help students develop their analytical thinking and effective communication, essential skills for both academic and personal growth.
