A Quest for Peace

This project will be a roundtable discussion in search of a solution to the Arab-Israeli dispute.  Two of you will represent the Palestinian side and two the Israeli side.  The other student and I will pose questions that each side must answer.  The answer must represent the position chosen for the role-play.

Research the questions and find as much factual information to support your views as you can.  Time is limited so make good use of it.  You will need to be able to defend your views in-depth.  During the role-play, you must reply in as much detail as possible. Your opponents, the moderator and/or the teacher might challenge your facts so be careful.

Each answer will be graded for its completeness and representation of the appropriate position.  Each is worth 10 points.  Your answer to the final question (a fair settlement) is worth 20 points.  You may divide the questions so that you and your partner each answer 4, but you must both share in answering the last question.

An additional 20 points can be earned for your performance during the role-play.  Bonus points will be awarded for dress, accent, etc.

The questions:

1.     What is your claim to the land in dispute?

2.     Who are the leaders of your people?

3.     Where do you think the borders should be drawn between the two countries?

4.     What should be the final status of Jerusalem?

5.     Where should the Palestinians who wish to return to Israel live?

6.     What should happen to the Palestinians imprisoned by Israel for past acts of violence?

7.     What can be done to end violence by both sides?

8.     What should be done about the wall erected by the Israelis?

9.     What would you consider a fair settlement for each side? 

What compromises can you suggest that might help bridge the gap between your two peoples?

Left unsaid, but implicit in each of these questions: explain why you gave the responses you did?

Resources on the Crisis in the Middle East

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