1. For each of the 3 countries, give the following information:

1. capital
2. location/the countries that share its borders
3. the religious breakdown of the population
4. the type of government
5. the chief of state (and head of government if different) If monarch or dictator, since what date has he/she ruled? – include name of heir apparent for monarch
6. the population

Find the answers at the CIA World FactBook website. For each country, answers can be found under the “Geography” “People” and “Government” headings.

Or, go to Wikipedia – search there for “Religion in ___” or “Politics of ____” for the leaders.  Or do an internet search for “Population of ___.”

NOTE to students: Before answering the questions below, read the information under “Background.”

NOTE: Before answering the questions below, read the info under “Background” and watch the videos under “Resources.”

2. For INDIA:
a) list the who, what, where and when of the news item
b) For what reasons did army officials take this step?
c) Based on these reasons, do you think this was a good way to prevent cheating? Explain your answer. (Would it have made a difference if a photo of the exam takers was not published in the news?)
d) How does the reporter explain his assertion that cheating is common in India? (Note: What appears to be the case is that it is condoned in some places. Do an internet search to ascertain more facts on this phenomenon.)

3. For MEXICO:
a) list the who, what, where and when of the news item
b) Read the “Background” below the questions. Do you think the Mexican government is justified in firing the teachers? in requiring them to pass certain evaluations to receive raises? in attempting to end the union’s practice of allowing teaching jobs to be inherited or sold? Explain each of your answers.

4. For ITALY:
a) list the who, what, where and when of the news item
b) For what reason have trade unions associated with work at the Royal Palace of Caserta complained about the new museum head Mauro Felicori?
c) How did Mr. Felicori defend himself against the accusations?
d) What was the government’s motive for hiring Mr. Felicori?
e) Do you agree with Mr. Felicori or the unions? Explain your answer.