Wednesday, May 22, 2013

Current Event #28: Trading Places/Past or Present


Current Event #28: Trading Places/Past or Present



Due: Friday, May 24th, 2013

During the course of this year, we have discussed various historical individuals which have had some sort of impact (small or large) within our society. For this week's current event, select a person from the past or present, that you would trade places with for a day. Relive a major victory, accomplishment, battle, etc. that your chosen person may have experienced in their lifetime. It can be a person you know personally, a celebrity, or some person of notoriety to others. What would life be like for you by taking on another's identity? How would things change or stay the same?

What You Will Do:

1. Select one individual past or present that you admire and would consider switching identity with for a day. Be sure to discuss who the person is and what contributions or actions/influence he or she has had on society.

2. Explain why you chose the individual and what experiences would come from walking in that person's shoes for any amount of time.

3. Discuss at least one thing that makes you similar to the person you chose and one thing that you would have to change/do in order to come close to the talent of your person of choice.

***Note: Remember to answer all questions in complete, detailed sentences/paragraphs.***

Tuesday, May 14, 2013

Current Event #27: Your Topic of Choice

Current Event #27: Your Topic of Choice

Due: Friday, May 17, 2013

The topic for this week's current event blog assignment is your choice. The topic must revolve around a  topic in history which focuses on something currently happening the world of politics, education, government, etc. Please refrain from using sports or entertainment articles. Make sure to use a current and reputable source (not Wikepedia) and find an article that interests you. 

Your post should adhere to the following format:

Heading/ Be sure to include the following in your blog post:

-Your name/class period

-Title of article/author-Source/date of article

-URL (copy and paste your article link in your response for me to review your article)

Paragraph #1:

-Summary of your selected article (minimum of 5-7 sentences that provide detail about who/what, when, where, and why your current event is significant) 

Paragraph #2:


-Reflection/Opinion of article (minimum of 5-7 sentences)

-Give supporting facts and include any personal experiences associated with the article

-Relate the current event to what we've been studying in class (if applicable)

-pose questions/concerns about the event


***Note: Remember to answer all questions in complete, detailed sentences/paragraphs.***

Tuesday, May 7, 2013

Current Event #26: Are Video Games Designed Just for Child's Play?

Current Event #26: Are Video Games Designed Just for Child's Play?

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Due: Friday, May 10th, 2013

The quick-thinking skills required in video games may be more helpful than crossword puzzles in slowing or even reversing declines in brain function that come with aging. According to a recent study conducted by researchers from the University of Iowa, certain types of video games have been identified to help boosts the memory of older adults. With this evidence, I guess it is now safe to say that video games are not just for kids anymore?


What You Will Do:

1) Students will read the Time Magazine Article found at the following link: http://healthland.time.com/2013/05/03/video-games-are-not-just-childs-play-gaming-could-slow-mental-decay/ , which features the cover story relating to video games improving memory.

2) Secondly, students should indicate their video game status, by explaining the frequency of their time devoted to playing any throughout the day. (Note that these methods of play can include actual game systems used to play the video games as well as cell phone applications permitting you to play games to stimulate your brain.) Identify and explain how some of the games you play have various aspects incorporated into them, which forces individuals to have to rely on their quick-thinking and processing skills to complete the game.

3) Do you agree or disagree with what the article states regarding video games playing a pivotal role in helping individuals maintain higher levels of memory? Explain in detail.

4) Students should also identify an older adult in which they would assist in playing video games with to experiment and/or test this memory theory. How would you convince or persuade your selected person to switch places with you completing a crossword puzzle and having them play video games for hours to test their memory. 


***Note: Remember to answer all questions in complete, detailed sentences/paragraphs.***




Monday, April 29, 2013

Current Event #25: Is Texting Killing the English Language?

Current Event #25: Is Texting Killing the English Language?
Due: Friday, May 3, 2013

In today's times it is becoming more apparent that the English language is being replaced with the technology age's text language. Constantly, people are substituting words and phrases with shorten symbols and letters. It has become an epidemic which has caused some older people to further dislike technology and the way in which younger people have been accused of discontinuing a language of pride. 

What You Will Do:

1) Students will visit the following link: http://ideas.time.com/2013/04/25/is-texting-killing-the-english-language/ and read the article posted to answer the following questions.

2) Do you utilize the various texting symbols and language to communicate with people within your phone messages or everyday writing? Explain through examples.

3) How do you go about learning the various meanings of different texting symbols and phrases used in text messaging?

3) Why do you think people like to invent new languages such as texting and will the new texting language lead to people forgetting and/or abandoning the proper English language?

***Note: Remember to answer all questions in complete, detailed sentences/paragraphs.***



Tuesday, April 23, 2013

Current Event #24: Earth Day 2013


Current Event #24: Earth Day 2013
Due: Friday, April 26th

Recent polls have revealed Americans have become less concerned about the environment now than when Earth Day first began. Americans place less importance on environmental issues than they did in 1971, a year after Earth Day was established, according to a new HuffPost/YouGov poll. But the poll also finds that more Americans are taking some steps to protect the environment, such as cutting down on electricity use, eating organic foods and recycling.

For Earth Day this year, The Huffington Post and its polling partner YouGov assessed how environmental attitudes and behaviors have changed since the first Earth Day was celebrated in 1970 by repeating questions that were originally asked on two 1971 surveys.

What You Will Do:

1)  Students will view the video, “Do We Really Care About Climate Change?”, and read the article found at the following link: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/04/22/environment-poll-earth-day_n_3117003.html

 2) Answer the following questions in complete sentences after reading the article and provide detailed explanations for each of your responses.


---Do you care about climate change as it relates to the future?

---How important do you think it is to work to restore and enhance the natural environment? Provide steps that can be taken to achieve these goals.

---Do you think government spending on programs to enhance and restore our environment should be kept at the present level, increased, or decreased?

---In the past few months, have you saved aluminum cans, glass bottles, plastic bottles, newspapers or magazines for recycling? Describe any actions you have taken.

***Note: Remember to answer all questions in complete, detailed sentences/paragraphs.***

Monday, April 15, 2013

Current Event #23: Your Topic of Choice

Current Event #23: Your Topic of
Choice


Due: Friday, April 19, 2013

The topic for this week's current event blog assignment is your choice. The topic must revolve around a  topic in history which focuses on something currently happening the world of politics, education, government, etc. Please refrain from using sports or entertainment articles. Make sure to use a current and reputable source (not Wikepedia) and find an article that interests you. Your post should adhere to the following format:

Heading/ Be sure to include the following in your blog post:
-Your name/class period
-Title of article/author
-Source/date of article
-URL (copy and paste your article link in your response for me to review your article)

Paragraph #1:
-Summary of your selected article (minimum of 5-7 sentences that provide detail about who/what, when, where, and why your current event is significant) 

Paragraph #2:
-Reflection/Opinion of article (minimum of 5-7 sentences)
-Give supporting facts and include any personal experiences associated with the article
-Relate the current event to what we've been studying in class (if applicable)
-pose questions/concerns about the event

***Note: Remember to answer all questions in complete, detailed sentences/paragraphs.***

Wednesday, March 20, 2013

Current Event #22 The Iraq War 10 Years Later: Was it Really Worth Fighting?


Current Event #22
The Iraq War 10 Years Later: Was it Really Worth Fighting?
PHOTO: U.S. Marines pull down a statue of Saddam Hussein in the centre of Baghdad on April 9, 2013. 
Sean Smith/Getty Images  U.S. Marines pull down a statue of Saddam Hussein in the center of Baghdad April 9, 2003.  
Due: Friday, March 22nd 2013

The week of March 17 marks the 10-year anniversary of the war in Iraq, when a U.S.-led coalition invaded the country to topple Iraqi President Saddam Hussein.The war succeeded in removing a despotic regime, but sparked years of sectarian strife in the Middle Eastern nation and regional upheaval, while the U.S. and its allies also felt the repercussions of a battle thousands of miles away.

A decade on from the conflict, America is keen to hear from those who were involved, from Iraqis themselves and people in neighboring countries, to the military who served in battle (and those they left behind), to charity workers and contractors who worked in Iraq at this time.

What You Will Do

Students should visit the following link:
to view footage highlighting the 10 year anniversary of the Iraq War. Students should read the articles and watch the videos, to learn about a war which divided a country over its existence. Students should also answer the following questions in full details to express their point of views.

1)      Ten years later, what do you think the Iraq war has changed in you, your family, and in our country?

2)     Was the Iraq War worth fighting and was it a victory for the United States?


***Note: Remember to answer all questions in complete, detailed sentences/paragraphs.***


Monday, March 4, 2013

Current Event #21: "The Bully Effect"

Current Event #21: "The Bully Effect"

A bully may back off when his target fights back, but will he learn a lesson?
Due: Friday, March 8th, 2013

In recent news coverage, “Bullying” has been a major topic being addressed across the country, in many schools and other public venues. CNN’s correspondent, Anderson Cooper of AC360, has been instrumental in highlighting a new documentary called, “The Bully Effect”, by Lee Hirsch. This documentary provides snapshots of children and their parents dealing with trying to overcome the violence and cruelty of bullying. Within our current society, bullying has taken on some severe measures, including cyber-bullying which extends beyond the initial physical and verbal aspect as we once knew. Within this documentary, one will find various eye-opening situations and experiences which provide a back drop for a need to further the elimination of such actions. I strongly encourage you to watch this documentary to become enlightened and aware of this nationwide epidemic.

What You Will Do:

Students will read the article and select any of the clips found at the link provided to obtain information regarding the topic of bullying being addressed:http://www.cnn.com/2013/02/28/opinion/anderson-cooper-bullying/index.html?hpt=us_mid

1)      As a student of CHHS, have you encountered or witnessed any forms of bullying (verbal, physical, cyber-bullying, etc.) or know of anyone being bullied? If so, which kind have you seen as the most prevalent and what strategies or suggestions can you provide to further the campaign of eliminating this type of bullying in schools?

2)      How might someone being bullied seek help or assistance, instead of contemplating about drastic measures, to end the harm and humiliation being done to them?


3)      If you knew of someone being bullied or knew someone who bullies individuals, would you inform the proper authorities; or continue to allow injustices take place? Explain your position in specific detail.


***Note: Remember to answer all questions in complete, detailed sentences/paragraphs.***




Tuesday, February 26, 2013

Current Event #20: Has TSA Gone Too Far?

Current Event #20: Has TSA Gone Too Far?
Due: Friday, March 1st, 2013

In lieu of security screening at airports, a recent story broke surrounding a 3 year old girl with a spinal disorder in a wheel chair. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) demanded that the child must adhere to the standard protocol, of having a pat down performed, to follow safety concerns before boarding a plane. This is the latest case in a line of events concerning children in airport security incidents. 

What You Will Do:

1. Watch the videos and read the article provided at the following link: http://www.theatlanticwire.com/national/2013/02/tsa-pat-down-wheelchair-children/62396/

2. Answer the following questions surrounding this topic regarding your position about standard practices conducted by the TSA:

---Should there be some limitations established, when it comes to allowing some passengers (handicapped, children, etc.), to forego standard security procedures? If so, explain what changes should be made to accommodate young passengers at security check points.

---Do you agree or disagree with the TSA actions regarding this recent incident with this 3 year old girl? Explain your opinion in detail.

---What should or could have been done differently by TSA if you disagree with their handling of this situation?

***Note: Remember to answer all questions in complete, detailed sentences/paragraphs.***

Tuesday, February 12, 2013

Current Event #19: Your Topic of Choice


Current Event #19: Your Topic of
Choice


Due: Friday, February 15, 2013

The topic for this week's current event blog assignment is your choice. The topic must revolve around a  topic in history which focuses on something currently happening the world of politics, education, government, etc. Please refrain from using sports or entertainment articles. Make sure to use a current and reputable source (not Wikepedia) and find an article that interests you. Your post should adhere to the following format:

Heading/ Be sure to include the following in your blog post:
-Your name/class period
-Title of article/author
-Source/date of article
-URL (copy and paste your article link in your response for me to review your article)

Paragraph #1:
-Summary of your selected article (minimum of 5-7 sentences that provide detail about who/what, when, where, and why your current event is significant) 

Paragraph #2:
-Reflection/Opinion of article (minimum of 5-7 sentences)
-Give supporting facts and include any personal experiences associated with the article
-Relate the current event to what we've been studying in class (if applicable)
-pose questions/concerns about the event


***Note: Remember to answer all questions in complete, detailed sentences/paragraphs.***

Tuesday, February 5, 2013

Current Event #18: Dollars, Cents, or Plastic?

Current Event #18: Dollars, Cents, or Plastic?
Due: Friday, February 8th, 2013


Canada is dropping the use of its penny today. And some economists believe the United States should be following its neighbor's example.The U.S. Mint spent 2 cents to produce and ship each of the 5.8 billion pennies sent to banks last year. But in addition to being a money loser for the Treasury, there are arguments that the penny has simply outlived its usefulness.

What You Will Do:

1. Students will view the video and read the following CNN article found at the following link: 

2. After reading the article you will respond to the following questions:

---Should the U.S. follow Canada's lead in killing the penny? Share your thoughts and opinions based on your usage of coin/cash money.

---Do you find most people within your family or circle of friends, etc. utilizing cash/coin money or plastic credit and/or debit cards for the majority of their purchases? 

***Note: Remember to answer all questions in complete, detailed sentences/paragraphs.***

Tuesday, January 29, 2013

Current Event #17: Protecting America Against Violence

Current Event #17: Protecting America Against Violence

A trash bin of handguns collected during a gun buyback program in Los Angeles last month

Due: Friday, February 1st, 2013

In the wake of several recent school and community shootings, many local and federal governmental officials, have been working together to remedy the systematic problems looming over the lives of many. Currently, legistlatures are trying to reform the current laws and rights which accompany gun owners to keep America's citizens safe.

What You Will Do:

2. After reading the article you will respond to the following questions

---What is your stance on the current policy's being discussed with President Obama's plan to resolve violence surrounding gun control which include: (increasing access to mental health services, lifting restrictions on federally funded research on gun violence, extending background checks before the purchase of a gun)?

---Examine the armed weapons pie chart and read Senator Dianne Feinstein's gun proposal. Based on the information presented, explain your thoughts on how the focus has been primarily on curbing access to high-powered rifles and large-capacity magazines, and not the common handguns that account for the majority of gun deaths in America.

***Note: Remember to answer all questions in complete, detailed sentences/paragraphs.***

Monday, January 7, 2013

Current Event #16: Happy New Year 2013!!!

Current Event #16: Happy New Year!!!
Due: Friday, January 11th, 2013


It's 2013, a brand new year, with rapid news coverage happening worldwide. The topic for this week's current event blog assignment will be a topic of your choice. You should select a topic/story that has helped kick off the start of January 2013, that has people currently discussing its content or controversy. Be sure to use a current and reputable source (not Wikipedia) in finding an article that interests you. Your post should adhere to the following format:

What You Will Do:

Heading/ Be sure to include the following in your blog post:
-Your name/class period
-Title of article/author
-Source/date of article
-URL (copy and paste your article link in your response for me to review your article)

Paragraph #1:
-Summary of your selected article (minimum of 5-7 sentences that provide detail about who/what, when, where, and why your current event is significant)

Paragraph #2:
-Reflection/Opinion of article (minimum of 5-7 sentences)
-Give supporting facts and include any personal experiences associated with the article
-Relate the current event to what we've been studying in class (if applicable)
-pose questions/concerns about the event

** *Be sure to write specific, detailed, complete paragraph sentences, when writing your current event.***

HAPPY NEAR YEAR!!!



Monday, December 17, 2012

Current Event #15: 2012 Year End Wrap-Up


2012 Year Ending Current Event # 15



Due: Friday, December 21, 2012

The topic for this week's current event blog assignment will be one of reflection. You should select a topic that will pertain to a thought provoking event/issue that will surely be written and recorded in the history books for 2012. We've experienced and witnessed a lot of historical events that helped shape 2012. What world event will you choose to end the year on a historical note? Be sure to use a current and reputable source (not Wikepedia) and find an article that interests you. Be sure to research to find information regarding varies topics and issues that left a mark or impression during 2012, which will be discussed for years to come. Your post should adhere to the following format:

What You Will Do:

Heading/ Be sure to include the following in your blog post:
-Your name/class period
-Title of article/author
-Source/date of article
-URL (copy and paste your article link in your response for me to review your article)

Paragraph #1:
-Summary of your selected article (minimum of 5-7 sentences that provide detail about who/what, when, where, and why your current event is significant)

Paragraph #2:
-Reflection/Opinion of article (minimum of 5-7 sentences)
-Give supporting facts and include any personal experiences associated with the article
-Relate the current event to what we've been studying in class (if applicable)
-pose questions/concerns about the event

** *Be sure to write specific, detailed, complete paragraph sentences, when writing your current event.***

HAPPY NEAR YEAR!!!

Tuesday, December 11, 2012

Current Event #14: Living in a Digital World


Current Event #14: Living in a Digital World
Douglas Rushkoff says computer class must be about teaching kids to make tomorrow's software.
Due: Friday, December 14th, 2012

This week is Computer Science Education Week, which is being observed around the United States with events aimed at highlighting the promise of digital education. Douglas Rushkoff, a media theorist, author, and digital media advocate, says we live in a digital age but computer science is not a priority in schools; which causes the United States to lag further behind other countries in this field. Rushkoff also states that digital literacy helps us see that kids are not Facebook's customers, but the product. His argument on Capitol Hill this week will focus on the need for individuals to think critically about promoting digital media environments, as a liberal art to teach students about the world.

What You Will Do

1.      Read the CNN article found at the following link address: http://www.cnn.com/2012/12/10/opinion/rushkoff-code-writing/index.html?hpt=hp_bn7 , in order to address the accompanying tasks.

2.      Select 3 of the author’s 10 talking points to discuss in detail, your view of support to help the author's argument, for further advancement regarding the need of digital education in today’s society.

3.      In what capacity do you envision our school/district accomplishing the desire to make our students competitive in the digital education race? How can our school/district improve in order to meet the specific needs mention by Douglas Rushkoff?


***Note: Remember to answer all questions in complete, detailed sentences/paragraphs.***




Monday, December 3, 2012

Current Event #13: Saving Afghan Women before U.S. Exit


Current Event #13: Saving Afghan Women before U.S. Exit
Afghan schoolgirls study in an open air school in Jalalabad. Violence against women is a major problem in Afghanistan.
Due: Friday, December 7th, 2012

Violence against women is a major problem in Afghanistan. A recent incident happened last week, where a 14-year-old Afghan girl was beheaded and killed in an attack by two men, one of whom apparently asked her to marry him. The attack happened last Tuesday, a day before new legislation was introduced in Congress calling on the U.S. government to take steps to help protect Afghan women and girls as the U.S. military prepares to exit Afghanistan.
The girl was fetching water when she was accosted, according to reports. The men, who have not been identified, were arrested by police. The girl and her parents had refused a marriage proposal by one of the men, according to the Amnesty International report. This was the 15th deadly attack on a female victim in Kunduz in 2012, the human rights organization said.
Daisy Khan, a women’s rights advocate, suggests that a key measure of U.S. success in Afghanistan will be the extent of women’s rights. She states that, “If girls can’t go to school, women can’t reach goals, which means nothing will have changed”. Women must be in talks to fight forcefully for rights, they must vote, go to school and all parties must promote women’s rights.

What You Will Do:

Students will read the CNN article found at the following link: http://www.cnn.com/2012/12/03/opinion/khan-afghan-women/index.html?hpt=hp_bn7 . After reading the article, you will need to answer the following questions in complete, detailed paragraphs to convey your thoughts and opinions about the issue being discussed. Be sure to cite examples given in the article to support your opinions in addition to any other resources you might utilize.

1.      In your opinion, explain in full detail whether or not you think that the United States military has a moral duty and responsibility to protect Afghan women against the injustices which are presently happening to them?
  

2.      As mentioned in the article, these offenses toward Afghan women will escalate further once American troops exit. Express your opinion regarding the (4) major goals which must be accomplished before the United States loses its bargaining position in Afghanistan after our troops withdraw. List each goal and provide your analysis for each as you explain your position.

Tuesday, November 27, 2012

Current Event #12: Individual Topic of Your Choice

 
 
Current Event #12
 
 
 
 
Due: Friday, November 30, 2012

The topic for this week's current event blog assignment is one of your choice. Please refrain from using any sports or entertainment articles for your current event. Be sure to use a current and reputable information source to find an article that interests you. Your post should adhere to the following format:

What You Will Do:

1) Heading/ Be sure to include the following in your blog post:
-Your name/class period
-Title of article/author
-Source/date of article
-URL (copy and paste your article link in your response for me to review your article)

2) Paragraph #1:
-Your summary of your selected article (minimum of 5-7 sentences that provide details about who/what, when, where, and why your current event is significant to the study of World History) 

3) Paragraph #2:
-Your reflection/opinion of article (minimum of 5-7 sentences)
-Give supporting facts and include any personal experiences associated with the article
-Relate the current event to what we've been studying in class (if applicable)
-Pose questions/concerns about the event of your choice for others to consider


4) Lastly, select one other current event from another student, to read and provide appropriate feedback by replying to their post. This will begin an interactive component to our on-line blog for future assignments.  

Monday, November 19, 2012

Current Event #11:The Pros and Cons of Thanksgiving



This 18th century illustration of the first Thanksgiving didn't depict reality, many Native Americans say.

.
Current Event #11: The Pros and Cons of Thanksgiving
Due: Friday, November 23rd, 2012
  
Thanksgiving: A time of reflecting on all of the events and times one has encountered during the course of the year(s). It is a time when most of the world finds the time to gather with their loved ones and enjoy the company of one another. Thanksgiving day marks a period where the traditional holiday meal consists of a full course meal, including a carved turkey, a host of baked sweets, etc. We often find other activities coinciding as a result of this holiday, such as the BLACK FRIDAY (Day after Thanksgiving) retail sales and putting up Christmas decorations, to name a few. However, what does this day mean for some who don't quite have this same perspective, namely Native Americans. From a historical point of you, let's take a look back in hindsight, to read and define the origin of this revered national holiday.

What you will do:

You will visit the following link: http://inamerica.blogs.cnn.com/2011/11/24/thanksgiving-is-some-native-americans-day-of-mourning/?hpt=us_bn1 , this will take you to the CNN article entitled: Thanksgiving is some Native Americans' "Day of Mourning". You are assigned to read this article to gather varying opinions surrounding the celebration of Thanksgiving. Upon reading the selection, I want you to begin formulating your own personal pros and cons about this celebrated day and discuss each in specific detail as you write your first paragraph(s). Provide examples of how you and your family celebrated Thanksgiving, and also a few family traditions performed.

Within the next 2-3 paragraphs, discuss how this article may or may not have changed the way you look at the way we celebrate this holiday. Express your thoughts/opinions based on the individuals mentioned in the article as to whether you feel Native Americans were wronged. Also provide a position in regards to the European settlers exploring new lands in America to create colonies. Let's examine the origin of the day set aside to give thanks to the yearly harvests of our hard labor!


Tuesday, November 13, 2012

Current Event #10:Opinion/Every day should be Veterans Day?

Current Event #10: Opinion: Every day should be Veterans Day
Due: Friday, November 16th, 2012

Veterans Day was celebrated on Sunday, November 11th this year, with America recognizing it as a major federal holiday Monday. We salute the men and women who willingly sacrifice their lives on behalf of all fellow Americans worldwide. As you will find most veterans don't always ask for help because of them having a lot of pride. However, we still have to find ways of showing our appreciation to the many lives that have supported our military efforts and defended our country’s safety.

What You Will Do:

1) Students will read the CNN article discussing the importance of Veteran’s Day and how one can help a respected war veteran. http://www.cnn.com/2012/11/09/us/iyw-veterans-day/index.html?iref=allsearch

2) Do you know someone who is currently serving in the military or who has actively served our country in the armed forces? If so, be sure to give supporting facts and include any personal experiences by identifying the soldier, your relation or connection to the soldier, any war stories shared, the name of war the soldier fought in, etc., so we can properly acknowledge the heroism of the soldier during this time of celebrations and memorials.

3) List and explain a variety of  ways that you/we can honor our war veterans every day of the year.  If you or someone you know are supporting or have supported a soldier in the past, explain in detail how you or someone you know has helped in supporting military soldiers over throughout the past or within the present years.

WE SALUTE ALL OF OUR MILITARY SOLDIERS WORLDWIDE!!!

***Remember to answer all of your questions in complete, detailed sentences/paragraphs.***



Tuesday, November 6, 2012

Current Event #9: Legal Age To Vote


Current Event #9: Legal Age To Vote

Due: Friday, November 9th, 2012

The right to vote is one of the most important liberties that can be accorded to the individual in a democratic country. In the history of the world there have been many stories about the sacrifices made by our ancestors in order for them to give us the liberty of speaking our minds through a vote.

After many years of struggle voting has become a right that can be exerted by every man and woman that has reached the right age. There is such a thing as a right age for voting because it must be done by an individual that holds the intellectual capability of understanding the consequences of the vote he or she casts. An individual must be able to make a decision that is right on which the future of a country could depend on.

The legal age for voting differs in some countries, but the majority agrees with young men and women who reach the age of 18 to be allowed to vote. In the past the right to vote was granted at the age of 21 but the limit was lowered to 18 and some countries are even debating lowering it even more.

In the United States of America the legal age is 18. But there is an exception to this rule that allows persons who have 17 years old to vote if they are to turn 18 on or before the general election day. This however is only applicable in some states.

Most countries around the world maintain the 18 year old rule. Cuba, Brazil, Nicaragua and Austria allow voting at 16. In the Seychelles and Sudan 17 is the legal age. South Korea has a legal voting age of 19 and Japan of 20. Bolivia, Cameroon, the Central African Republic, Dominica, Djibouti, Fiji, Kuwait and Lebanon allow their citizen to vote at the age of 21.


Source:www.righttovote.org


What You Will Do:

1) Read the CNN article entitled Argentina drops its voter age to 16 found at the following link: http://edition.cnn.com/2012/10/31/world/americas/argentina-youth-vote/index.html?hpt=ila_c2 .


2) Based on your reading of the information regarding the official voting ages around the world and the content found in the CNN article, you will formulate your thoughts and opinions on the age parameters set for voting in the United States.

3) Do you agree or disagree with the current voting age set for citizens in the United States? Should the age criteria remain the same or should they change based upon the intellectual attributes that you and your peer group could bring to the table? Explain in detail.

4) The Argentina voting article made mention of the fact that, "the worst social problem in Argentina is the youth. Education is worse. The consumption of drugs is worse. Employment is worse. Things like teen pregnancy, they are much worse than they were at the beginning of this government, and now the government has discovered them and they say, we are going to vote". If you were granted the opportunity today to vote based on political campaign debate speeches and other media driven plows to capture voter's action at the ballots, would you vote to solve issues such as the ones listed in this quote? Why or why not?

***Remember to answer all of your questions in complete, detailed sentences/paragraphs.***