1. Define the following words as used in the article:
-volatility, hedging (from para. 2)
-[crop] futures (from para. 3)
-inflation, benign (para. 5)
-retrenching (para. 8)
-idle (para. 9)

2. Name the major crops American farmers intend to cut production of this spring.

3. Why are farmers planning on reducing the amount of crops they grow this year?

4. How will this reduction in crops grown affect the average American?

5. Who does the grocery shopping for your family? Ask how increased food prices this year affected your family budget. The USDA is forecasting food inflation of 3-4% this year. Ask your parents how they handle increased food prices within your family's budget.