Economics
Students analyze new evidence of growing wealth disparity based on race and ethnicity and overall U.S. economic inequality. Then they consider what they and others might do to reduce inequality.
Two student readings focus on the reasons for rising gas prices as well as the true social and environmental costs of oil, with discussion questions and an internet inquiry.
Educator Marieke van Woerkom provides timeless guidelines for opening up discussion on difficult issues--like the current economic recession--with your elementary and middle school students. Also included: links to resources on the economic crisis to inform the class discussion.
Alan Shapiro offers two readings to help high school students consider the impact of rising unemployment and continuing foreclosures. Discussion questions and suggestions for inquiry, writing, and citizenship follow.
In three student readings and activities, Alan Shapiro invites students to consider the behavior of people in bureaucracies, including the health insurance industry, finance, and the military.
What fueled the housing boom and the bust that followed? Who was hurt? Who benefited? Two student readings explore the issues.
A student reading focuses on the housing boom and bust, why AIG foundered and why taxpayers are propping it up. Discussion questions and a suggested fish bowl discussion follow.
How can teachers help their students understand and take action on problems stemming from the economic crisis? We propose a process for encouraging active student citizenship.
President Obama's inauguration address offered a continuing teachable moment for examining key issues facing the nation. A student reading including speech excerpts is followed by questions for discussion and inquiry.
Two student readings summarize the condition of the country as Roosevelt was inaugurated and highlight the New Deal. A third reading summarizes the situation in the U.S. today and Obama's economic recovery plan. Discussion questions and suggestions for further exploration follow.