Reading Comprehension Questions:

1. What law expires September 13, 2004?

2. What did supporters of the ban hope Congress and President Bush would do?

3. How did manufacturers skirt the ban?

4. How do police chiefs feel about the ban?

5. List 3 reasons opponents of the ban think it should not be renewed.

Discussion Activity (more research might be needed):

1. Do you think the assault weapon ban should be renewed?

2. The Second Amendment to the Constitution reads: "A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed." What does that mean to you?

3. Write an essay explaining your interpretation of the Second Amendment and send it to extra@newshour.org

Write a 500-800 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.