News for Students and Teacher Resources
6–12 Grade Level
Lesson Plan
Social media is an important tool for learning about current events and practicing active and informed citizenship. However, fake Twitter accounts called ‘bots’ have been used to try to influence public opinion—and not always for the better. Continue reading
Lesson Plan
Every election year and for years after elections, there are several major issues that persistently trouble Americans. Every election year, politicians pledge that they will address these issues, and nearly every year they fall short of many peoples’ expectations. In this lesson, we examine problems surrounding health care costs, funding higher education and preserving social security. Then, students look at how the current presidential candidates are proposing to address these issues, and formulate a short media presentation. Continue reading
Lesson Plan
The Founders did not intend to create a two-party system and yet that is exactly what has thrived in American history. In this lesson, students watch the We The Voters film “American Party Animals” to better understand the two-party system, and then break into groups to study the role of third-party candidates. Continue reading
Lesson Plan
Why is voting an important responsibility for citizens? Less than 60 percent of eligible voters voted in the 2012 general election. Yet, for other Americans, voting is a very meaningful, almost sacred duty. In this lesson, students will view three short films that explore the importance of voting. Continue reading
Lesson Plan
What do people need to consider when evaluating public opinion polls? After viewing The Poll Dance, students will examine important aspects of valid polling and evaluate three polls. Continue reading
Tooltip of RSS content 3
DOWNLOAD VIDEO Directions: Read the summary, watch the videos and answer the discussion questions below.…
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Flags line the National Mall on Jan. 19, as preparations were underway for President-elect Joe…
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In this NewsHour lesson, students will examine the message and goals of poet Amanda Gorman as she prepares to speak at the presidential inauguration. Continue reading
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DOWNLOAD VIDEO Teachers: This past two weeks have been full of news that can be…
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Plan an inaugural ceremony fit for the moment. Continue reading
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