1. For each of the 3 countries, give the following information:
a) capital
b) location/the countries that share its borders:
c) the religious breakdown of the population:
d) the type of government:
e) 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]:
f) the population:

[Find SOME of the answers at the ?? CIA World FactBook website (no longer appears to be updating some info!?) or from wikipedia. For each country, answers can be found under the “Geography” “People” and “Government” headings.  Go to worldatlas.com for a list of continents.]

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

2. For VANUATU:
a) list the who, what, where and when of the news item
b) Read the “Background” below and watch the news report under “Resources.” What do you think will be the biggest problem the country faces in the aftermath of this devastating storm?

3. For VENEZUELA:
a) list the who, what, where and when of the news item
b) What does socialist President Maduro demand President Obama do regarding the sanctions?
c) President Obama imposed sanctions on Venezuela by executive action, not through Congress, which is most likely the more usual route. The Obama administration says that Venezuela threatens U.S. security. Regarding U.S. relations with Iran, President Obama wants to lift all sanctions against that country as it continues its nuclear weapons program. The Republican-led Congress wants to impose more sanctions on Iran (not lift any) to force them to end their nuclear program, which threatens U.S. security. What do you think of the President and of Congress’ differing views on these two countries? Ask a parent to explain his/her perspective.

4. For SYRIA:
a) list the who, what, where and when of the news item
b) Ask a parent or a grandparent: Do you think the U.N. should do anything to stop this devastation?