Overview
Monday, a judge in Montana sided with a group of young environmental activists who argued the state was violating its constitution by promoting fossil fuel development without considering the impact on climate change. William Brangham examined the arguments on both sides of the case before the trial and reports on the ruling's implications in Montana and nationwide.
For a transcript of this story, click here.
News wrap alternative: Check out recent segments from the NewsHour, and choose the story you’re most interested in watching. You can make a Google doc copy of discussion questions that work for any of the stories here.
5 Fact-Based Questions
- Why is it surprising to some that the students in this story actually won the case?
- How many people does this ruling potentially impact?
- Who is Kathy Seeley?
- What is Our Children's Trust?
- Where is the Sabin Center for Climate Study?
Focus Questions & Media Literacy
How does Montana's Constitution play a role in this court case, and why was it significant in the judge's decision?
News analysis: What background information could have been useful when reading this lesson?
Alternative: See, Think, Wonder: What did you notice? What did the story make you think? What story would you want to find out more about? Where would you go to learn more?
What Students Can Do
What students can do: Discuss with a friend, neighbor or classmate — what potential impact might the ruling in this Montana case have beyond the state's borders?
STUDENT VIDEO OF THE DAY (March 17, 2023)
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