Voice to Parliament - Research Reflect, and Debate
Research and Reflect
Introduce students to the Voice to Parliament referendum Also, deepen their understanding of Catholic Social Teachings on justice and political participation, particularly the principle of Subsidiarity, with Caritas
Have students research and gather information about the Referendum and its potential outcomes and impacts. After a time, use a whiteboard, Google Doc or an app like www.mentimeter.com to collate and record the group’s findings.
Next, invite students to reflect on how their Catholic faith shapes their views on the Referendum, particularly in light of the Principle of Subsidiarity. Have each student write a poem or one-page reflection paper on the topic. Alternatively, if time and facilities allow, they could create a minute-long short film or 5-slide presentation on the topic. Encourage them to keep the CST of Subsidiarity front-of-mind as they complete the activity.
Once these reflections are complete, invite students to share their reflections and learn from one another.
Once introduced to the Voice to Parliament referendum and its potential outcomes and impacts. (Use and build on any learning generated from the previous activity, if done.) Divide students into two or more teams to simulate a debate on the Referendum. Assign each team a different position, such as arguing in favour of the amendments proposed by the Referendum or against it. As they develop arguments in support of their assigned position, encourage students to read the referendum question and proposed change to the constitution closely.
Hold the debate by getting students to take turns presenting their arguments and responding to their opponents’ arguments. Set a time limit of, say, 3 or 5 minutes for each speaker. Remind students of the Catholic Social Teaching principle of Subsidiarity throughout the debate.
After the debate, facilitate a group discussion encouraging students to reflect on the arguments of both sides and consider how their participation in the political process aligns with their Catholic faith and values.