1. Define the following as used in the article:

• gradual
• escalation
• grudging
• incrementalism
• foreign policy

2. What warning did Sen. John McCain, chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee have for Secretary of Defense Ash Carter?

3. What concern does Sen. McCain have about the Obama administration’s policy on fighting ISIS?

4. What does Sen. McCain say that he has concluded after talking to military commanders on the ground and in the Pentagon?

5. List the questions Sen. McCain has asked Secretary Carter to answer as the Senate Armed Services Committee weighs the Defense Department’s 2017 budget request.

6. Ask a parent (and a grandparent if possible): Do you think the assertions/questions Sen. McCain includes in his letter are reasonable? Explain your answer.