Current Issues
Classroom activities to engage students in learning about and discussing issues in the news
The role of religion in politics has become a controversial 2008 election issue. Following an introductory quiz, three student readings address the Constitution and the founders on religion, presidential candidates' speeches on faith and politics, and the appropriateness of religious questions...
Student readings explore the complex relationship between the U.S. & Iran, including controversy stemming from the recent finding that Iran halted its nuclear weapons program.
America's low-income "missing class" is the subject of one student reading; another reading explores proposals to help these Americans enter the middle class. Ideas for further inquiry follow.
Student readings explore the complex relationship between the U.S. & Iraq. Students will consider many views, including those of the leading presidential candidates.
A student questionnaire, two readings, and discussion questions explore media coverage of the 2008 election, including The Project for Excellence in Journalism's finding that almost two-thirds of coverage is devoted to the campaign's horse race aspects.
Three readings help students consider the president's "war on terror" strategy, statements by Bush's critics, and what constitutes torture. Discussion questions and other student activities follow.
Two student readings examine the practice of earmarking in bills and the connection between earmark spending and political campaign cash.
The private security firm Blackwater USA made headlines when its contractors killed 17 civilians in Baghdad. That event, its background, and consequences are the subjects of two student readings, discussion questions, and suggestions for student inquiries and citizenship.
The Bush administration and Congress have been on a "collision course" over executive privilege. A student reading explores the issue; a fish bowl activity gives students a chance to discuss it. See our collection of lessons on presidential power below.
A document-based lesson by educator Alan Singer asks students to consider Bush's arguments and opposing views.