7th Grade Informational Text English (UK)

This resource is aimed at 7th to 10th grade.

The political landscape in the United States is deeply polarized, with Republicans and Democrats often having starkly different positions on many issues. 

Here are ten hot contentious topics that hav been prominent in the political discourse. These topics are highly dynamic, and the positions associated with each party can evolve over time, influenced by current events, leadership changes, and public opinion. Always consult the most recent sources for the latest information on these and other political issues.

Each issue has further been divided into two short stories, or rather scenarios, one from the perspective of a democrat, and one from the perspective of a republican.

Finally, there are sets of questions that probe each scenario and dig deeper into the issues and perspectives.

The topics covered are:

Gun control

Abortion

Healthcare reform

Climate change & environmental policy

Tax policy

Immigration

Economic inequality & social welfare

Education

LGBTQ+ Rights

Voting rights and electoral integrity

This story is also available as part of an eight story ebook, "Young Voices: Eight Short Stories of Courage & Resilience."

Embark on a poignant journey with "Rising Tides, Resilient Hearts," a heart-rending tale of resilience in the face of nature's relentless force. This narrative follows Ana and Lani, two young girls from the imperiled island of Kiribati, as they grapple with the reality of their sinking homeland. With the rising tides threatening to erase their ancestral roots, the community faces a heart-wrenching decision. Through the bonds of friendship and the echoes of ancestral wisdom, our young heroines navigate the emotional tides of leaving their beloved island. This story not only reflects the global issue of climate change but also illuminates the enduring spirit of a culture on the brink of displacement. Witness how love, memory, and the power of storytelling become the vessel for preserving a disappearing world, inspiring young readers to understand and embrace the challenges of change.

There are thought provoking questions (and possible answers) at the end of the story.

General Learning Objectives for Deep by Design stories:

Understanding Conflict: The material offers insights into the dynamics of territorial conflicts and their ramifications for those caught in the crossfire.

Effects of War or Conflict on Youth: The content underlines the deep-seated impact of hostilities on the mental and physical health of children and adolescents.

Resilience and Hope: Through character experiences, the narrative highlights the human capacity for endurance and the quest for collective healing amidst adversity.

Cultural Insight: The text provides a window into the complexities of a region's culture and the intense obstacles its inhabitants endure.

Human Rights: The narrative serves as a primer for dialogues concerning the safeguarding of civilians and the enforcement of human rights in times of strife.

Peacebuilding: The book promotes an investigation into the adoption of nonviolent strategies for mitigating disputes and fostering reconciliation at the community level.