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.
08/08/2016
Zika Vaccine Trials Have Begun, But Funding Is About To Run Out
Scientists are pushing forward with another Zika vaccine even as officials warn funding to fight the outbreak is about run out. The National Institutes of Health announced last week that its vaccine entered clinical trials. This is the second Zika vaccine to reach that stage. But a White House official says an organization key to developing a vaccine will likely run out funding by the end of the month. That would lead to a halt on any work being done on a vaccine until Congress can approve more funding when the next session starts in September.
■Class discussion: When was Congress first asked for extra money to fight the Zika virus? Why wasn’t the funding approved? How do people get the Zika virus? What are the effects of the virus? How many American citizens – including Puerto Rico – have been infected with Zika? Is the virus spreading in the United States? Is it expected to continue spreading? Why or why not? What states are most vulnerable? Have Congressional representatives from those states pushed for Zika spending?