ABSTRACT
Political debates provide rich teaching opportunities in social studies, language arts, and media literacy. In addition to helping students understand the role of debates in the election process, using debates as a teaching tool will help them examine the candidates' use of language and word choice and observe the media's influence on both the debate process and the electorate. The US 2016 presidential campaign debates provided a wealth of dramatic moments, thwarted expectations, and unusual exchanges among candidates during both the primaries and the general election. But students may also have opportunities to view debates closer to home involving candidates for Congressional, state, and city/county offices, via local broadcasts, public television, and Internet sources. Presidential, federal, state, and local political debates all provide a portal through which students can explore a multitude of topics that are critically important in developing their media literacy skills and preparing them for a future role as voting citizens in a democracy.
