Is America Ready for Electric Cars?

1. Set Focus
Frame the inquiry with these essential questions: How might new technologies lead to progress in a society? What can create obstacles to progress based on new technologies?

2. Read and Discuss
Have students read the debate and then answer the following questions:

• What is the issue being debated? How does it relate to current events? (The issue is whether Americans are ready to switch from gas-powered cars to electric cars. The issue is timely because General Motors and Volvo recently announced plans to produce only electric cars in the near future, and other car manufacturers are likely to follow suit.)

• Evaluate why these two authors might be interested in and qualified to comment on this issue. (Marc Geller is the director of an association that advocates for use of electric cars. Michael Smitka is an economist.)

• Analyze Geller’s view. (Geller argues that Americans are ready to switch to electric cars. He says that electric cars are more environmentally friendly, cheaper over the long term, and easier to maintain. He also says that Americans are ready for the switch because electric cars are quieter and more comfortable, since they don’t have pistons.)

• Analyze Smitka’s view. (Smitka argues that the switch to electric cars will not happen anytime soon. He says gas cars are better for hauling things long distances, which he says is how Americans often use their cars. He also says changing car models to electric and creating a supply chain for lithium for electric car batteries will take many years.)
  

4. Writing Prompt
In an essay, evaluate one of the debaters’ arguments. Assess whether the reasoning is valid and whether it’s supported with evidence. Point out biases or missing information.

5. Classroom Debate
Is America ready for electric cars? Have students use the authors’ ideas, as well as their own, in a debate.

6. Vote
Go online to vote in Upfront’s poll—and see how students across the country voted.