University of Virginia Credit for Presidential Classroom Participation

GUIDELINES FOR THE PAPER

Presidential Classroom provides a stimulating academic environment where high school students exchange information and emotions about prominent issues confronting contemporary society. Crossfire sessions promote dialogue among students from across the United States and abroad and expose participants to new facts, ideas and attitudes pertaining to national issues. As the next generation of civic leaders, Presidential Classroom students analyze contemporary problems and offer solutions to those problems.

The 5-6 page paper will focus on your choice of Crossfire issues (Communique Issues for Summit participants) outlined in your Program Overview and Crossfires brochure.

The paper should be double-spaced in 10- or 12-point font and must include:

  • A clearly defined issue that presents basic facts underlying the issue and relates how the issue affects individuals and groups holding differing viewpoints. The paper should be concise and focused directly on the issue.
  • One or more clearly stated solutions that would resolve the issue for most Americans. Your opinions may be included in this section.
  • A carefully constructed defense of your solutions while also providing objective information about opposing viewpoints.
  • An explanation of  how your resolution of the issue would impact American government and/or society in the near future.

Short title citations may be used (example: Newsweek, July 3, 2002) within the paper providing corroboration of your statements. Formal footnoting is not necessary. You may use the Internet, periodicals, books, and government documents as sources.

The paper must be completed and submitted within one month following completion of the Presidential Classroom week. The written paper should be sent directly to:

 Dr. Jerry Moore, Professor, via email: JERRYM16@prodigy.net

Download the UVA registration form to apply for the UVA credit.

For University of Virginia registration and  administrative questions, please contact Ms. Charlotte Partain at 703-536-1123 or cpartain@virginia.edu