Social Science Models

Washington's Presidency: Materials

1. Make sure your group members have copies of Biographical Briefing and Summary Sheet. 

2. Make sure each group member knows his or her role:

Actor Plays the part of the historical figure being questioned by Reporters and Historians during the class presentation. Takes time to learn the ideas and personality of the historical figure. Helps others learn about the figure he or she represents. Thinks of appropriate props and costumes to help bring the historical figure to life. 

Historian Responsible for ensuring that all group members understand the ideas and beliefs of the historical figure. Prepares and asks supportive questions of historical figure during press conference. Gather additional background information that will help you more accurately portray your figure. 

Public Relations Agent Takes time to learn about the ideas and personality of the historical figure. Introduces historical figure at the start of the press conference. Assists Actor in answering any difficult questions during the press conference. Solicits ideas from group members to design nameplate for historical figure with name and appropriate visual symbol of the figure's view on Washington's actions. 

Investigative Reporter Responsible for anticipating and preparing Actor for any questions that may be asked. Carefully examines Summary Sheet to find out which historical figures on the panel have ideas that support or oppose the group's. Prepares and asks probing questions of other panel members to expose weaknesses in their arguments. 

3. Read and discuss the Biographical Briefing. Prepare Actor by making sure he or she can represent the historical figure's ideas on Washington's actions. Design a nameplate with appropriate visual symbol. Prepare probing questions to ask other historical figures. 

4. Rehearse by asking Actor questions that are likely to come up during the press conference. Make sure Public Relations Agent has brief introduction prepared. Make sure Reporter and Historian have appropriate questions ready. As the press conference unfolds, take notes on your data retrieval chart.