In this project, students examine political speeches and propaganda that were historically effective in shifting societal perceptions on major social issues (civil rights, women’s rights, workers’ rights, etc.).  Student teams select a current political issue (local, state, federal) to investigate and engage with their peers in a Structured Academic Controversy to develop their ideas on the topic. Individual students use what they learn about rhetorical devices, argumentation, and the issue at hand to write and present a persuasive speech that will convince first time voters or other stakeholders of their stance. Sample topics might include mass incarceration, fracking, the electoral college, GMO labeling of foods, immigration policy, or any other issue of students’ choice.