1. The first paragraph of a news article should answer the questions who, what, where and when. List the who, what, where and when of this news item. (NOTE: The remainder of a news article provides details on the why and/or how.)

2. a) How many states do you think have statewide mask mandates?
b) See the “Background” below; what is the number?
c) Are you surprised by this number? Explain your answer.

3. a) For what reasons have both governors rescinded their covid mandates?
b) What is your reaction to this explanation? Agree/disagree? Explain your answer.

4. a) Who will (and for what reason) have authority in Texas to implement local covid restrictions going forward?
b) What won’t they be able to do?

5. a) When will every senior in Texas who wants the vaccine be able to get it, according to Gov. Abbot’s office?
b) What percent of the overall U.S. population (of approx. 329 million) has been vaccinated so far?
c) At least 20% of the U.S. population is under the age of 16. Ask a parent: down to what age do you think minors/teens/children should be vaccinated? Please explain your answer.

6. a) What did President Biden say about mask mandates?
b) What did President Biden’s White House COVID-19 adviser Andy Slavitt say about mask mandates?
c) For a) and b) Do you agree or disagree? Explain your answers.

7. Read the “Background” below. Why do you think the smaller chains will let the customers decide if they want to wear masks, but the larger chains (like a Target) will not?

8. a) Considering the drop in number of covid cases including hospitalizations, and the ongoing distribution of vaccines, as well as treatment, do you support or oppose statewide mandates/lockdowns/restrictions going forward? Explain your answer.
b) Ask a parent the same question.