Current Issues

The proposed Employee Free Choice Act makes this a teachable moment for students: why is union membership declining in this country? Is organizing too difficult? A document-based question exercise follows.

Three readings, all based on Jonathan Schell's book The Unconquerable World: Power, Nonviolence, and the Will of the People, invite students to learn about, discuss, and act upon ideas for a cooperative and more peaceful world.

Two student readings examine, compare, and provide commentary on the U.S. wars in Vietnam and Iraq. Suggested discussion questions, writing assignments, and subjects for inquiry encourage students to explore opposing viewpoints.

Two student readings examine issues surrounding the indictment, trial and conviction of Lewis Libby, Vice President Cheney's chief of staff. Following the readings are suggestions for student discussion and continuing attention to future developments.

The debate on Iraq has created an important teachable moment about who has the power to make war under the U.S.'s system of government. Three students readings explore the issues.

Three student readings open up new avenues for discussion and inquiry. A concluding activity proposes student inquiry into arguments for and against capital punishment through internet investigation and a "constructive controversy."

Student readings explore problems with these machines in the 2006 election and proposals for reform. Suggestions for inquiry and citizenship follow.

Help your students prepare for the NY Regents Exam with these document-based question exercises modeled closely on the format used in the exam.

Many are fervently for, others are fervently against national health insurance. Student readings provide a critical overview of the U.S. health care system and discuss the pros and cons of national health insurance. A DBQ exercise and activities follow.

Offers an overview of a British government study and an IPCC February 2007 report on climate change.