1.  Why do you think President Bush gave a speech to the American people last night?
What did President Bush say in his speech last night about winning the war in Iraq?
(The White House website always provides the full text of the President's speeches.  For last night's speech, go to WhiteHouse.gov.)

2.  President Bush said in his speech that to the terrorists, the world is the battlefield, and if Americans weren't fighting them in Iraq, "they would be on the offense, and headed our way."  Think about the terrorist attacks of September 11th, as well as other terrorist attacks that you know of.  Also, consider the information the President has about terrorist groups.  Do you agree with his assertion about terrorists?  Explain your answer.

3.  With whom do you agree:
Democratic House Leader Nancy Pelosi who said: "President Bush persists in pursuing a flawed policy that has not made the American people safer nor made the Middle East more secure. It is time for a new direction in Iraq -- not more of the same."
or
Republican House Speaker Dennis Hastert who said President Bush's plan will protect Americans and bring stability to the Middle East as well as freedom to the Iraqi people.  He also said "Americans are safer, and Iraq is free because of them [our troops]."
Explain your answer.

4.  Define partisan.  Do you think that politicians should act in a partisan manner regarding the Iraq war?  Explain your answer.

5.  Re-read the last ten paragraphs of the article (para. #'s 19-28)  Did President Bush's speech give you hope for the future of Iraq?  Explain your answer.