1. For each of the 5 countries, give the following information:
a) the continent on which it is located
b) the name of the capital city
c) the type of government
d) the chief of state (and head of government if different)
e) the population

[Find the answers at the CIA World FactBook website. For each country: type of government, capital and executive branch (chief of state/head of government) can be found under the "Government" heading; population is listed under the "People" heading.  Go to worldatlas.com for a list of continents.]

2. For the United Kingdom:
a) list the who, what, where and when of the news item
b) What types of work will people have to do from now on to be eligible for welfare and unemployment?
c) What do you think of the British government's plan?
d) Ask a parent if he/she can tell you anything about U.S. welfare reform in the 1990's under President Clinton and a Republican majority Congress.

3. For Turkey:
a) list the who, what, where and when of the news item
b) How are Native American tribes able to offer Turkish companies tax incentives aside from the U.S. government?
c) How many tribes in how many states are involved in talks with Turkey?

4. For Brazil:
a) list the who, what, where and when of the news item
b) Why must Tiririca prove that he can read and write?
c) Watch the news clip on Tiririca below under "Resources." Tiririca's campaign slogan was "It can't get any worse." He received nearly twice as many votes as his opponent, who is a former governor of a Brazilian state. Do you think the people made the best choice for congressman? Explain your answer.

5. For Cuba:
a) list the who, what, where and when of the news item
b) Mr. Ramos was arrested for opposing the Cuban government, and speaking out for human rights. Upoon his release he said, "I'm going to return to the same activities I did before."  How would you describe Mr. Ramos? (eg. courageous, foolish, defiant, fearless, etc.)  Explain your answer.

6. For Germany:
a) list the who, what, where and when of the news item
b) President Obama stated on his trip to Asia last week that he supports India and Japan's bid for permanent seats on the Security Council. Read the "Background" below the questions on the Security Council. Permanent members have veto power. Do you think President Obama should also support Germany's appeal for a permanent seat, along with India and Japan? Explain your answer.
c) Ask a parent the same question.