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Common Core State Standard
SL.CCS.1/2/3/4 Grades 6-12: An essay of a current news event is provided for discussion to encourage participation, but also inspire the use of evidence to support logical claims using the main ideas of the article. Students must analyze background information provided about a current event within the news, 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. FOR THE WEEK OF DEC. 18, 2006 Holiday countdown: Make a list, check it twice . . .![]() ![]() Savvy shoppers use newspapers’ print editions as a handy resource. Challenge students to list different ways the paper simplifies holiday chores with information for consumers in ads and news columns.
![]() In addition to checking paid pitches from manufacturers and merchants, newspaper readers learn about products from reviews, trend articles, blogs and online forums. Invite class members to describe how they or family members use the paper to help with choices about gifts, home electronics, entertainment, books, trips and other purchases.
![]() Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa are about much more than gifts, of course. Ask students to look through recent editions for coverage that reflects the spirit of this season’s generosity, good will and traditions.
. . . and create or buy something nice. Less than a week is left to finish Christmas and Kwanzaa preparations, which may still include finding gifts or dropping last-chance hints about what you’d like. Some popular items are hard to find or marked up on eBay, including a 10th anniversary Tickle Me Elmo model to now costs more than its $40 list price. Two new game players -- Nintendo’s Wii and Sony’s PlayStation 3 – are gone from some stores. There’s also not much time to ship gifts out-of-town in time for next Monday’s holidays. The U.S. Postal Service, United Parcel Service and online shops still can deliver your package by Saturday at standard rates if you hurry. On Friday, you’ll have to use Express Mail or an overnight service. The Circuit City electronics chain offers in-store pickup of online orders placed as late as Christmas Eve. As for what to give or to signal interest in getting, below are ideas in three can’t-miss categories. Good luck . . . and enjoy the holdiay break!
Front Page Talking Points is written by
Alan Stamm for NIEonline.com, Copyright 2024
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