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.
01/11/2016
Newly Arrived Syrian Refugees Pepper-Sprayed
A group of Syrian refugees being welcomed to Canada was pepper-sprayed last week outside a Muslim center in Vancouver, British Columbia. Between 15 and 30 people, including children, were hit with pepper spray by an assailant riding a bicycle. Muslims have been targeted by a wave of anti-Islamic sentiment since terrorist attacks in Paris and San Bernardino.
■Class discussion: How have recent terror attacks changed attitudes about Muslims? Has your attitude changed? Is it fair to hold a group of people responsible for the crimes of a few? Should white Christians be expected to apologize for terror attacks at a black church or Jewish community center? Who and what are Syrian refugees fleeing? What are conditions are civilians facing in Syria?