1. IMMIGRATION DEBATE

Some political figures, like JD Vance, argue that reducing immigration will help American workers by forcing employers to hire U.S.-born workers instead of relying on immigrants, especially those who are undocumented. They believe this will increase wages and create more job opportunities for Americans who aren't working. However, many studies suggest this view is not entirely accurate. Research shows that immigration has only a small negative effect on wages for less-educated native-born workers, and immigrants often create more jobs by increasing demand for goods and services. Immigrants also fill low-wage jobs that allow native-born workers to move into higher-paying positions. While some labor unions support the idea of giving undocumented immigrants legal status and improving working conditions for all, others, like Vance, believe strict immigration controls will improve the job market for U.S. workers. Still, experts argue that the real issue for many unemployed Americans is not immigration but other factors, like health problems or substance abuse, which limit their ability to work. Write a summary of this topic that compares both sides of the argument for and against tighter immigration control. Then, write a paragraph about what you would do if you wanted to find more information about this to decide which side to support. Where would you go for more information? What kind of sources would you use and how would you know if they were believable and truthful?

2. CHANGES FOR EDUCATION

Linda McMahon, known for her role in the wrestling business, is Donald Trump’s pick for education secretary. While she doesn’t have a lot of experience in education, she has been involved in some education boards and programs, like serving at Sacred Heart University and briefly on Connecticut’s State Board of Education. McMahon supports policies like “school choice,” which allows families to use public money for private schools. She also wants to reduce the federal Department of Education’s role, giving more control to states. She’s a fan of technical education and believes students don’t need to follow a four-year college path to be successful. She’s praised programs like apprenticeships and wants Pell grants (college financial aid) to also help students in shorter skills training programs. Some groups, like for-profit colleges, are happy with her nomination, but others, including teacher unions, strongly oppose her, saying she’s not qualified and doesn’t prioritize public schools. Her supporters see her as someone who will give parents more power in deciding their children’s education. People are divided on her nomination, with some willing to wait and see how she performs. Using your newspaper, books in your classroom, or other resources, write at least a paragraph that summarizes what the Education Department does in the United States. What are its responsibilities and what power does it have to fulfill those responsibilities? Then, write a brief summary of what people think Linda McMahon might change, get rid of, or strengthen in the department in the coming years.

3. CLIMATE DEAL CHALLENGES

At a United Nations climate summit in Azerbaijan, countries agreed to a deal that will provide at least $300 billion a year to help developing nations fight climate change. This money will help them reduce their reliance on fossil fuels, adapt to climate impacts, and repair damage from extreme weather. However, many countries, especially developing ones, were upset because the amount is much less than the $1.3 trillion they asked for. Some felt the process was unfair and criticized rich nations for not contributing enough. While the deal is a step in the right direction, many believe more funding will be needed in the future. Some also worry that the money may come in the form of loans, putting more debt on poorer countries. Despite these concerns, the deal is seen as a starting point, with hopes that other sources of funding will help reach the necessary goals to fight climate change. Using your newspaper, the internet, or other resources, look up how lower income countries are affected by climate change compared to wealthier countries. Write at least one paragraph summarizing what you’ve learned and how the money from the United Nations’ deal could help poorer countries face climate challenges.

4. SENTENCING ON PAUSE

A New York judge has delayed the sentencing of Donald Trump in his criminal case, where he was convicted of falsifying business records to cover up a scandal. Trump was supposed to be sentenced next week, but his election victory led to a postponement. His lawyers are trying to have the case dismissed, arguing that because he’s president, he shouldn’t be sentenced right now. The judge hasn’t made a decision yet, but the sentencing is on hold while Trump’s lawyers make their arguments. If the case isn’t dismissed and Trump loses, he could face up to four years in prison after his presidency ends. The legal battle could continue for months or even reach the U.S. Supreme Court. The arguments largely focus on the term “presidential immunity.” Look up what this means using books or other resources in your classroom. Summarize the definition and what it could mean in cases like this, where the president is facing legal challenges between presidencies for something that was done before he was elected president.

5. ISRAEL ARREST WARRANT

The International Criminal Court (ICC)—based in The Hague, a city in the Netherlands—can prosecute leaders for crimes even if their country is not a member. For example, Israel is not a member of the ICC, but the court has still issued arrest warrants for Israeli leaders like Prime Minister Netanyahu over alleged war crimes in Gaza. This is because the court's jurisdiction extends beyond just member states, and it can act on crimes committed in areas it recognizes, like Gaza, which is considered part of Palestine, a state recognized by the ICC. However, not all countries recognize the court's authority. Powerful nations like the U.S., Russia, and China don’t accept ICC rulings. Additionally, the court can’t enforce arrest warrants on its own. It depends on other countries to detain suspects, but not all countries comply. For example, Hungary allowed Netanyahu to visit despite the arrest warrant. Look up the history of the ICC in books or other resources in your classroom. Write a summary of what the court investigates, some of the actions it’s taken before, and other situations it’s currently investigating.