Current Issues

When is it right to share information about what we see as wrongdoing by others - and when is it meddling in someone else’s business? How do our morals and ideals affect our decisions to share information? Students consider these questions through this circle on social responsibility. 

Students examine the vaping health crisis, how e-cigarettes work, the role of Juul, marketing to teens, and the government's role in controlling the use of vapes.

Public attitudes about crime and punishment have shifted over the past decade, including among politicians from both parties. In this lesson, students examine the move away from "tough on crime" approaches and consider new proposals for criminal justice reform that are in the spotlight during the...

Facebook's announcement that it would not fact check political ads touched off a controversy over social media and the First Amendment, among other things. In this lesson, students examine and discuss multiple points of view on the issue.

Students explore how dominant culture beauty standards and discrimination based on hairstyle choices have impacted African Americans. 

How many candidates is too many? Does our current primary system make for a stronger or weaker democracy? Students explore the question, and consider the pros and cons of an alternative system, ranked choice voting. 

Students learn about the Kurdish people and discuss President Trump's controversial decision to withdraw troops that had been protecting Kurds in the region.

How is wealth distributed in the U.S.? Students estimate it, examine the data, then discuss proposals by presidential candidates to narrow it. 

The House of Representatives has launched an inquiry into possible impeachment of President Trump. What led to the inquiry – and what is impeachment? In this lesson, students learn some of the background and consider their own views.

After a worldwide youth climate strike, students share their thoughts and reflections, including through images and signs from the strike.