The Future of Capital Punishment: Current Policies and New Debates

Applications are now being accepted for the 2004 National Online Youth Summit "The Future of Capital Punishment: Current Policies and New Debates." The application deadline is December 5, 2003.

The purpose of the 2004 National Online Youth Summit (The Future of Capital Punishment: Current Policies and New Debates) is to encourage young people to critically evaluate a law-related public policy, develop informed opinions about capital punishment, and to develop their skills. Skills addressed during the summit include

1. Research and information organization;
2. Information interpretation, analysis, and synthesis of ideas;
3. Civil, civic dialogue;
4. Civic writing, including logical argumentation, distinguishing between fact and opinion, and using facts to support positions;
5. Collaboration and cooperation; and
6. Self-direction

During the summit, students will complete sequential assignments designed by the Division for Public Education to build their knowledge and skills. Some activities will take place in Web message boards and require students to interact with students in other schools online. Teachers will develop individual classroom plans integrating these activities and culminating in a final project. The National Online Youth Summit curriculum, objectives, and goals can be adapted to different courses. The Division provides additional lessons and resources to assist teachers in developing individualized project- and inquiry-based learning plans.

To be eligible to participate

1. Participating teachers must teach high school students; and
2. Participating students must be supervised by a classroom teacher and enrolled in a course taught by the teacher.

Thirty-five high schools will be selected to participate. The ABA strives to reach a wide geographic area and to serve a diverse mix of students. All high schools are encouraged to apply.

For more information about the terms of participation, application process, and to apply online, visit the 2004 summit Web pages.