Current Issues

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.

A student reading reviews major steps in the campaign process and such issues as the money race, fairness, and problems with the new voting machines. Suggested discussion questions and other activities follow.

A student reading deals with the Nobel Prize award, including a few of the basic facts and a view of what can and should be done.

This inquiry activity invites students to explore the central role of money in the 2008 election.

What constitutes racial discrimination in our schools? The Supreme Court considered competing answers to this question in its June 2007 ruling. Two student readings examine the issue and its historical background, including Brown v. Board of Education and the 14th Amendment.

The controversy at Louisiana's Jena High School offers a teachable moment for students to examine America's racial issues. A student reading presents an overview of the Jena events and comments by whites and blacks who live there. Suggested student activities include a microlab and subjects for...

The Bush administration's secret surveillance program, launched soon after 9/11, is the source of a lasting controversy, including a fight over the Protect America Act. Two student readings explore the issue.

What did the framers say about presidential power and why? How would the presidential candidates use this power?