Common Core State Standard L.CCS.1/2/3/4 Grades 6-12: Video of a current news event is presented for discussion to encourage student participation, but also inspire the use of evidence to support logical claims using the main ideas of the video. Students must analyze background information provided about a current event, draw out the main ideas and key details, and review different opinions on the issue. Then, students should present their own claims using facts and analysis for support.
08/18/2025
Washington clears homeless encampment
Washington authorities cleared a homeless encampment near the Lincoln Memorial last week, forcing people to relocate on short notice. Bulldozers tore down and removed anything that was not removed on time. President Donald Trump has taken over the city and ordered the removal of homeless encampments, threatening jail or a fine for those who don’t go into a shelter or leave the city. Washington has more than 5,000 people without permanent shelter.
■Class discussion: Is it a crime to be homeless? Why or why not? Trump has said homeless people with mental illness and addiction should be forcibly hospitalized. Should people be locked away for being mentally ill, addicted, or poor? Should all Americans, including the wealthy, be forced to accept treatment for mental and physical illness? Is medical care and permanent housing available to everyone in the United States? Do you think people choose to be poor or sick?
