Challenges for a New Century 1980-Present Grade 8 Chapter 29

Section 1 – The Threat of Terrorism 1.Define terrorism. What effect has terrorism had on the nation in recent years? 2.Where did early attacks on the United States take place? How have terrorist attacks against the U.S. changed in recent years? 3.Summarize the events that took place on September 11, How did Americans respond to the attacks? 4.Does the Patriot Act seem like a just law? Why or why not? 5.Why did the United States invade Afghanistan? Were U.S. troops successful? 6.Why did President G.W. Bush target Iraq? 7.Who won the Presidency in 2004? Discuss the major concerns of Bush’s second term. How did Bush try to control the situation in Iraq?

Section 2 – Economy and the Environment 1.How are “Clean Air and Water” and “Industry and Jobs” connected? 2.Why do American manufacturers face a disadvantage in the global economy? 3.Which is better for American businesses – tariffs or free trade? 4.How did Americans try to protect the environment in the past? 5.Do you think Americans are more conservation-minded today than they were in the past? 6.Why did the oil embargo pose such a threat to the United States? Do you think the U.S. has protected itself from being controlled by oil-rich nations? 7.Does anyone have a hurricane story to share – Katrina, Sandy? 8.Define global warming. In what ways do environmentalists and scientists disagree about the dangers of global warming? 9.Is nuclear energy a viable alternative to the world’s growing energy needs? Why or why not?

Section 3 – Science and Technology 1.What part do computers/technology play in your daily life? 2.How have advances in technology made the job market different than when your social studies teacher was young? 3.How has laser technology helped doctors? 4.Would you or have you already experienced new technology in your medical care. Describe.

Section 4 – A Changing Society 1.What benefits does a region derive from increased diversity? 2.What was the purpose of the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986? 3.How has the ethnicity of the United States changed? How does greater ethnicity improve American culture? 4.Why is the population aging? 5.How do you think the election and appointment of African Americans to high political offices has changed the lives of African Americans? 6.What advancements have women made in the workplace? 7.In what way do women still not receive equal treatment at work? 8.Why do you think Obama won the election of 2008? 9.Was this the most important election the nation has had? Why or why not?