Debates Worksheet

1. Today Objective Paraphrase the objective in your own words: Debate

Students will debate current
California propositions and
their fiscal impact on the State's
economy by presenting
arguments for and against each
proposition.

2. Vocabulary Words Definition

Proposition Statewide ballot measure that people vote on

Direct initiative Required number of signatures you can get on the ballots

Measure Local proposition

3. Quick Write Your response (3 minutes-be prepared to

share)

If we have a local propositions then are taxes

Californias proposition system allows would only go to the city that you live in.
citizens to propose new laws, get rid of
old ones and even amend the state
constitution. These propositions qualify
for the ballot if they get enough
signatures, and they become law if a
majority of voters support them. Discuss
some positive aspects of this system.
Explain some potential pitfalls. What
are some policies that you would like
to see changed or added to make your
state a better place?

Rules for Debate:

*Flip a coin, winner chooses.
Each side For/Against Argument = 1:30
Rebuttal = :30
State your strongest point and/or point out opposition's weakest argument and restate your
strongest point.
Questions from Voters
Vote
Tally
Extra points go to the WINNER!!

6. Proposition Notes - Key Points Vote-Explanation

53 - Example Any project over 2 billion, it Yes because there could be

must be voted on by state an emergency and we will
need the money

Proposition 66 Added cost to taxpayers Yes because the process is

money sped up
Much money to maintain
people on death row

Prop 64 1.4 billion dollars in california Yes because it would be

Voting no means it would still strictly regulated
be illegal

Prop 55 Higher income taxes, smaller No because i didnt know

business will have higher what to choose
taxes

Prop 56 Raise the tobacco tax rate, Yes because not a lot of
Taxes go to education and people buy it
stop smokers

Prop 67 Statewide ban of plastic bags No because it will still be the

in a store, safer environment, same with paper bags
less risk of wildlife
endangerment
Requires stores to charge 10
cent tax on thicker bags,

Trump REduce taxes for working No

class and poor, eliminate
special interest loopholes to
avoid paying taxes,

Clinton Close wall street and NO

 corporate loopholes, simplify
and cut taxes for small
businesses, provide tax relief
for working families,

Gary Johnson Educated, knowledgeable No

Jill Stein Physician, lead initiatives No

against environmental
racism, graduated harvard,

Jim Costa Position in natural resource Yeah

committee, graduated from
Fresno, California's state
legislature for 24 years

Johnny Tacherra Educated from Riverdale, No

Free markets,

5.Exit Question: Your Response

Out of all the propositions presented today, The one that made the most sense was the
explain which proposition you think made the one that made you vote on costs bigger
most fiscal sense. than a certain amount

Independent/Homework

Use the following LINK to help gather information on Proposition 58 and make a voting
decision.
Explain Proposition 58 It allows classes to teach english and spanish
Bilingual Education

Pros of Proposition 58 Cons of Proposition 58

 More money needed

Who is behind the fight? Vote: Yes or No