Fishbowl Discussion: Federalists vs. Anti-Federalists

Fishbowl Discussion: Federalists vs. Anti-Federalists

By Isiah Jones

Open Ended

Why would the well educated and wealthy be good and bad for governmental leadership? Explain

Federalist Papers vs Anti-Federalist Papers

• Aim: What were the major philosophical differences between the Federalists and Anti-Federalists?

• Objective: SWBAT compare and contrast the core philosophical differences between Federalists and Anti-Federalists by analyzing primary source excerpts and categorizing their arguments on a graphic organizer.

Our Central Question:

What were the major philosophical differences between the Federalists and Anti-Federalists concerning power, liberty, and the structure of government?

Our Goal:
A respectful, evidence-based debate where we bring the voices of Hamilton, Madison, and their opponents to life.

Phase 1 - Preparation (30 mins)

• Step 1: Know Your Role

  1. You have been assigned a side: either Federalist or Anti-Federalist.

  2. Silently Re-Read your assigned primary source documents.

  3. Answer the Analysis Questions for your side in your notes. This is your ticket to the discussion!

  Step 2: Build Your Case

  • In your Federalist or Anti-Federalist group, discuss your main arguments.

  • Find 2-3 direct quotes from your documents to use as evidence.

  • Use the "Written Task" chart as a guide for your arguments.opponents to life.

Phase 2 - The Fishbowl (45 mins)

The Fishbowl Setup

• Inner Circle (The Fishbowl): 5-7 chairs for the active speakers.

• Outer Circle: For observing and taking notes.Only the inner circle may speak.

• The outer circle listens silently and takes notes.

• To Join In: Gently tap a participant on the shoulder and take their seat. Do this respectfully during a pause.

• Respectful Dialogue: We discuss ideas, not people. Use evidence from the texts.

• Use the Language: "Federalist #84 states..." or "As Brutus argues in Anti-Federalist #46..."

Let's Debate!

The Bill of Rights:

• Federalists, why do you believe a Bill of Rights is unnecessary and dangerous?

• Anti-Federalists, why is a Bill of Rights absolutely essential to protect liberty?

Let's Debate!

Power & Human Nature:

• Federalist #51 says men are not angels. How does this view justify a strong central government?

• Anti-Federalists, you call a consolidated government "tyranny." What specific powers in the Constitution scare you the most?

Let's Debate!

Who Should Govern?

• Should the "common man" or an "elite class" be running the government? What do your documents suggest?

Let's Debate!

The Balance of Power:

• Who should be more powerful—the national government or the state governments? Why?

The Big Picture:

• What is the single biggest, irreconcilable difference between these two groups?

Poll

Overall, which side won the debate? □

• Federalists

• Anti-Federalists

Open Ended

If you were a citizen in 1787, which side would you support? Why?