Reading Comprehension Questions:

1. Why is Algeria in the news right now?

2. Who claimed responsibility for the attacks? Why is this group significant?

3. When and why did civil war erupt in Algeria?

4. Why are last week's attacks significant? What might happen now?

5. How did Algeria's struggle for independence begin?

6. How many people were killed during Algeria's struggle for independence? When did France grant Algeria independence?

Discussion Activity (more research might be needed):

1. Throughout Algeria's struggle for independence and later civil war leaders on both sides justified the use of violence for political gains. What is the origin of such political thoughts? What do you think? When, if ever, is violence for political change justifiable? Explain your reasoning.

2. Research the country of Algeria. What made it desirable for colonial rule by France? What resources does it have? In addition to this recent violence what problems does the current government face in terms of social issues and development?

3. Who are the Berbers in Algeria? What political goals do they have? What have they achieved? What role do they play in Algerian society?

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.