Guide for Panel Brief

Each student will prepare one Panel Brief according to the sign-up schedule. Each will have an assigned person and a writing from that person. The task of each student is to prepare for their testimony at the hearing, which is a presentation of evidence and arguments in advance of resolution.

The Hearing

The hearings will tackle historical disputes, and will offer a resolution to be approved or disapproved.

There will be six panels during the quarter. Four students will make presentations at each hearing, two for each side pro and con on a given position.

Testimony

Each student will act as though they are their assigned person. The student will prepare a statement of about two pages which lays out the arguments and evidence they wish to make for or against the resolution. Each participant will also prepare at least 1 page of questions for the other side and answers and rebuttals to anticipated questions. Finally, each student should prepare a half to full page final statement that summarizes the main points and refutations of the other side.

Questions

The instructor and the remainder of the students will have time to question the presenters. This is when the presenters' prepared answers will be of help. This discussion will be real-time and not rehearsed, so there are no set questions and no set script. All participants should be prepared to think on their feet to some extent. After question time, each will have a time to present a brief final statement

Grading

Participants will not be graded for their performance in class, but only for the typed brief, which will be assigned points according to the understanding of the readings and arguments the student reveals, as well as the quality of expression and writing.