UNIT 3: Advocacy

Teacher Instructions:

Cut out the cards from the table on the following page and let each learner randomly choose a card. Give time in class or assign the learners homework to research the viewpoint of the person they are to represent.

At the beginning of the town hall, set the scene with a motion to hear arguments for or against building an Out of the Closet Thrift Store with an AHF Testing Center. Allow the AHF representative to go first and then have students ask questions. Continue with the next person presenting their views followed by questions. At the end of the activity have the learners vote for or against allowing the building to be permitted. Lead the discussion or assign follow up reflection on the town hall.

Activity – TALK OF THE TOWN

Background Scenario:

An abandoned store on Main Street in Fairview has an offer placed on it from AHF to build an Out of the Closet thrift store, pharmacy, and testing center. Today you are joining the mayor to express your views on whether or not the building should be permitted to AHF for these purposes.

Preparing for the Town Hall:

Research your viewpoint and have a paragraph speech ready to give in front of the council. Include facts to support your argument. If you have an opinion that is not supported by facts, you can use your argument to state a common misconception.

For example:

• Fact: Testing is recommended for high risk individuals once a year.

• Misconception: HIV is only transmitted sexually.

• Make sure to use credible resources in your research. Government agencies, educational institutions, and academic databases are always a good place to start.

Counterpoint:

Write down some questions on opposing viewpoints from the one assigned.

Reflection:

• What viewpoints surprised you in the town hall?

• Whose opinion resonated with you the most?

• Whose opinion did you disregard as not part of the argument? Why?

• What other voices would you like to have heard?