Story: Immigration Debate Inflames Students and Lawmakers, 04/03/06
http://www.pbs.org/newshour/extra/features/jan-june06/immigration_4-03.html

Reading Comprehension Questions:

1. How are many students in the U.S. responding to possible new immigration legislation?

2. Why did students say they were getting involved in the immigration issue?

3. How did students say they felt about their experience?

4. Describe the immigration bill that passed the House of Representatives in December.

5. Describe the proposed Senate bill.

6. Where does President Bush fall on this issue?

Discussion Activity (more research might be needed):

1. Between the House of Representatives and the Senate there are several ideas about how to deal with the more than 11 million illegal immigrants in this country. Examine the various viewpoints and come up with your own immigration plan. Explain why you think your solution is the best one.

2. Many students across the country felt strong enough about the issue of immigration to face possible school suspension to protest. Are there any issues about which you feel strong enough to protest? If so, what are they and why? What kinds of protest do you think are most effective?

3. Describe the immigration situation in your community? How does illegal immigration affect local businesses such as construction companies, restaurants, or factories? How do different people in your community feel about the laws proposed by the House and Senate?

Write a 300-500 word essay on any of these topics providing clear examples. Send your completed editorial to NewsHour Extra (extra@newshour.org). Exceptional essays might be published on our Web site.