TeachableMoment Lessons

Three student readings explore the legal conflict over whether the government can claim "state secrets privilege" to tap people's phones, review email, and examine internet usage

An introduction and three student readings explore the vast BP spill, who is responsible, and problems with the Minerals Management Service.

Two student readings describe the events leading to the young girl's suicide, the depth of the bullying problem and an approach to countering it. Following the readings is an

An introduction and two student readings explore Obama's pledge to move toward nuclear abolition, obstacles to it, and current analysis from author Jonathan Schell. Discussion

Constance McMillen, who is lesbian, wanted to attend her senior prom with her girlfriend. A student reading describes the controversy and court ruling that ensued. Discussion

Student readings provide an overview of the new health insurance legislation and conflicting views about it. Discussion questions and a writing assignment follow.

A student reading describes the problem of college debt and provisions of the new reform law. A second reading presents arguments comparing college debt to indentured servitude and

Two student readings and discussion questions examine the safety of nuclear energy as well as the wider debate about the pros and cons of nuclear energy.

Alan Shapiro offers a process (including two student readings) to help students conduct a rigorous inquiry into the controversy over climate change.