Use this activity to engage all types of learners, while requiring that they refer to and incorporate details from the text over the course of the activity.

“A Debate on Silence”

In this activity, students will conduct a debate for or against the silence contest, providing evidence from the text and from research.

Dave and his classmates compete to determine which gender in his class can be more silent for two days. Consider Dave and Lynsey’s rules for the contest and the obstacles the teachers must overcome because of the contest. List the pros and cons of a day of silence, citing evidence from the text along with outside research. Then use the considerations below to conduct a debate with peers.

• What are the benefits of silence?
• What are some of the drawbacks of the inability to communicate?
• How do the teachers benefit from the students’ contests?
• What obstacles do the teachers have to overcome?
• Do you think silence is something individuals should practice?

During the debate, your team will argue for or against silence using evidence from the novel and from personal research. Afterwards, compose a journal response in which you discuss the value of the opposing side’s points. What good ideas did they bring to the table? What ideas can you refute based on facts and evidence?