Pre-Debate Materials

Here's a few items to check out before tonight's first presidential debate.  An article in the New Yorker that does a nice job of breaking down the debate, especially the opportunities for Romney, can be found here.

An interesting piece on Romney, Obama, and nonverbal communication can be found in this CNN article/video.

Also, I emailed the class a debate evaluation form FYI, but I thought I would add that material here as well:

Evaluating Political Debates

(Based on material @ www.lwv.org)

A.  Responsiveness & Clarity

• Answer question asked or evasive?
• Answer with clear ideas & specific evidence?
• Discuss issues or attack opponent?

B.  Image Projected

• Sincere/serious/confident/relaxed/relatable/presidential/other?

C.  Responding to the Unexpected

• Handling surprise questions/attacks/jokes, ability to think fast?

           

D.  Moderators

• Fair?
• Ask relevant questions?

E.  Outcome

• Who was better and why?
• Key moments?