Reading Comprehension Questions:

1. Who is facing a confirmation hearing this week? Who might this person replace and what topics are expected to come up for discussion?

2. What comparisons are being made between this nomination and the recent nomination of Supreme Court Justice John Roberts?

3. What is Roe v. Wade and how do many Democrats and abortion rights supporters feel Judge Alito could impact it?

4. Why is the issue of wiretaps important to the nomination? What arguments do Alito supporters make about this issue?

5. What is Judge Alito's current job?

Discussion Activity (more research might be needed):

1. Do you think Alito will be confirmed? Why or why not?

2. What are some issues that you predict the courts will have to deal with in the next decade or two?

3. Read, watch or listen to this NewsHour story about the past Supreme Court session:
http://www.pbs.org/newshour/bb/law/jan-june05/scotus_6-28.html

List the Supreme Court decisions mentioned. Write down whether you agree or disagree with each decision. There is no way to know exactly how Alito would have voted, but take a guess from what you've read so far. Would it have changed the final decision?

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.