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.

NOTE to students: Before answering the questions below, read the information under “Background” and watch the new videos under “Resources.”

2. For NORWAY:
a) list the who, what, where and when of the news item
b) What is the significance of U.S. marines deploying to Norway?
c) How does the Reuters reporter describe Russia’s reaction to US troops in Norway?
d) How long will U.S. marines be stationed in Norway? - What do officials say is the purpose of the deployment?
e) The Norwegian Ministry of Defense said the arrival of U.S. Marines had nothing to do with concerns about Russian [aggressiveness]. Ask a parent or grandparent: Do you think this is true? Please explain your answer.

3. For POLAND:
a) list the who, what, where and when of the news item
b) What is significant about the U.S. marines deployment to Poland?
c) How does the AP reporter describe Russia’s reaction to the stationing of U.S. troops in Poland?
d) What is the purpose of the marine deployment to Poland?
e) How long will the U.S. troops be there? What will they do while there?

4. For JAPAN:
a) list the who, what, where and when of the news item
b) How much of their paid vacation days do Japanese workers typically take?
c) How has the Japanese government worked around this problem and enforced time away from work?
d) What is the concern for employees of smaller businesses if this Premium Friday plan is implemented?
e) Ask a parent: Considering the culture of work in Japan, do you think Premium Friday is a good idea? Please explain your answer.