1. US HUMAN RIGHTS POLICY Day 7 Lesson

2. Objectives  Work cooperatively within groups to…  Analyze the issues that frame the current debate on US human rights policy.  Integrate the arguments and values of various options into persuasive, coherent presentations.  Explore, debate, and evaluate multiple perspectives on US human rights policy.

3. Warm Up  What is the paradox of US human rights policy?  So what should US human rights policy look like?  Although it’s been a leader in human rights, it sometimes places (poly/econ) self- interest above human rights agreements & standards.

4. Activity: Debating US Policy  Each of the 4 options you will explore today is based on a distinct set of values and beliefs. This activity is designed to help you understand contrasting strategies that people in the US may use to craft policy.

5. Activity: Debating US Policy  Preparation ~45 Min  4 Groups  Others form “Committee on Foreign Relations”  Read directions  Assign roles w/in group  Read Option & Complete “Expressing Key Values”  Incorporate reading into dvpt of presentation and questions  Prep presentation  Presentation ~45 Min  Rearrange room into four option rows, with Committee at front desk.  Each group will present for 3-5 minutes. Complete graphic organizer as groups present.  The Committee will ask clarifying questions.  Time permitting, groups may ask questions of one another.

6. Jigsaw:  Pair up with one member of each option group as well as a committee member.  Using your graphic organizer, debate the merits and tradeoffs of the competing views among your group.  Complete “Focusing Your Thoughts” worksheet.

7. Homework  Create a policy option that reflects your own beliefs and opinions about where US policy should be heading.  You may borrow from one option, combine ideas or take a new approach all together.  You will need to weigh the risks and trade-offs no matter what you decide.  Complete the organizer and post a summary version to the wikispace!

8. Putting your policy to the test Day 8

9. Warm Up-  What were the main concerns addressed by each of the options?

10. Review  How do the options differ in their assumptions of the problems and challenges facing the globe?  What is the international image of the US projected in each?

11. Activity – 4 Square  “Focusing Your Thoughts” Worksheet

12. Activity – Comparing Viewpoints  Volunteers to share policy recommendations with the class?  What values/beliefs are incorporated?  Potential trade-offs?  How would US citizens be affected?  People outside of the US?

13. Activity – Testing Your Option  Read each case and write your responses based on the policy you formulated.  How should the US respond?  Consequences?  Affect on US? Abroad? Directions:Discussion:

14. Closure  How does US action or inaction set a precedent for future US policy?