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.
07/16/2018
Younger generations lead movements for change
Whether it be women's rights, racial injustice or gun reform, both the millennials and Generation Z are standing up and speaking out about social issues. The 2016 election of Donald Trump as president triggered a surge of activism by younger generations unhappy with the direction of the country. Despite criticism for apathy, millenials have turned out at the polls. And, young activists are making effective use of social media to press their issues.
■Class discussion: Do you think young activists can change the direction of the country? Why or why not? What makes protests effective? What forces stand in the way of the activists? Why do some older people dismiss young activists? How do today’s protesters compare with grandparents who once demonstrated for civil rights or against the Vietnam war? How do they compare with protesters going back to the American Revolution? Is demonstrating for change patriotic?