Arbitration+Project

Arbitration Project/Current Events 100 points Due 5/17/2012


 * Arbitration** is a process in which a disagreement between two or more parties is resolved by an impartial individual or panel. This is done in our society in an attempt to costly and lengthy litigation. The most famous example of arbitration is the television show "Judge Judy," where each side has agreed that the decision rendered by Judith Sheinldin is legally binding.

In this assignment, each of you will **individually** argue a side of a controversial/current issue. The format will take on this order:

A. Argument for the motion

B. Argument against the motion

C. Cross-Examination of the individual for the motion

D. Cross-Examination of the individual against the motion

E. Closing pro

F. Closing con

In the cross-examination, the opposition is required to ask three questions concerning the other side's position. The purpose is to determine how well you can defend your position from attack. Cross-examination questions **cannot** be multipart. At the close of the argument, three people will be chosen at random to write their opinion via the class wikisite. Whoever wins at least two votes, wins the hearing. Some people will be chosen twice. Your grade for the decision portion will be based on the average quality of your opinion. You will not know whether you will be chosen until after the argument is concluded, so it is in your best interest to pay attention. The more specific you make your reasoning for your decision, the better your grade will be.

Scoring

30 points: Main argument 20 points: Effectiveness under cross-examination 10 points: Effectiveness of cross-examination 10 points: Closing 5 points: Oral presentation 25 points: Written Opinion

For each vote you win from the panel, you will receive five bonus points.


 * __Special Note to Judges__**

It is important in our judicial system that those deciding cases do not prejudge the case. Do not decide the case based on how feel about the issue personally. Base your decision solely on the arguments presented.