Title: Consensus or Opposition Forum
Course: BC - Social Studies 11 - 2.0.1.1 > Section: Unit 1: Political Studies

Which system would lead to a more effective government: an oppositional system (as is currently used in the Canadian federal government and the provincial governments), or the consensus government system (used in Nunavut and Northwest Territories)?

Using reliable online resources, do online research in order to arrive at an informed opinion about this question. You should consult at least four news or online encyclopedia articles from reliable sources. (Canadian Encyclopedia is a reliable source; Wikipedia or a personal blog is not).

In a 300-400 word forum post, give at least three specific reasons why your preferred system of government (consensus or opposition) is preferable. In addition, if you think consensus government is preferable, discuss possible challenges that would need to be overcome in order to switch to that system of government. Your post should include a quote from or specific references to at least one of the articles that you consulted. All articles and resources consulted should be listed in an informal works cited list at the bottom of your initial post.

After you have created your own post, find two other students to respond to with two separate 100-150 word responses. In your response, don’t just say, “I agree! Great job!” Ask a question, disagree charitably, add other evidence that you saw from your own research, or counter with a different interpretation. Try to add something meaningful and insightful to the conversation so that everyone’s understanding of the topic can be increased.

Forum Post Rubric

 | Not Completed | Emerging (Unsatisfactory) | Developing (Satisfactory) | Proficient (Very Good) | Extending (Excellent)
 | 0 | 4              5              6             7              8             9             10
Initial Post | Not complete | Demonstrates an inadequate awareness of the topic. Comments may be off topic or irrelevant. Demonstrates confused thinking. References are unreliable or not listed. . | Demonstrates an adequate awareness of the topic but offers little consideration of it. Provides some relevant comments. Demonstrates organized thinking. References may not be from reliable sources, or may not be listed adequately. | Demonstrates thoughtful consideration of the topic. Provides relevant comments. Demonstrates clear and organized thinking. References are reliable and cited.. | Demonstrates insightful consideration of the topic. Provides relevant and comprehensive comments. Demonstrates exceptional logic and organization. References are reliable and cited properly.
Response Posts | Not complete. | Responses demonstrate a lack of comprehension of the original post or may be disrespectful. | Responses are respectful but do not add much to the conversation. | Responses are purposeful and respectful, adding to the conversation. | Responses are discerning and respectful, adding meaning and depth to the conversation.
Total          /10 (averaged between posts)