1.  a) What crimes were six scientists and a government official in Italy accused of committing regarding the 2009 L'Aquila earthquake?
b)  What crimes were the seven actually convicted of committing?

2.  On what grounds were the seven convicted? Be specific.

3.  What argument did defense lawyers use?

4.  What sentence did the seven men receive?

5.  Describe the larger controversy associated with the L'Aquila earthquake.

6.  a) Define seismologist. Be specific (If you answer: A seismologist is a scientist who does research in seismology, then you need to define seismology)
b)  Read the "Background" below the questions, and watch the video under "Resources."  Six of the men are experts in seismology and geology.  The seventh was a senior official in the Civil Protection Authority.  Do you think the seven men should have been convicted?  Do you think the punishment fit the crime?  Explain your answers.