1.  List the countries that make up the G8.  For what purpose was G8 created?  What are the 2 main items on the agenda for this year's summit?

2.  What is the purpose of Live8?  What is the goal of the ONE Campaign?  (For additional information, check out the websites: Live8 and ONE Campaign.)

3.  What does Make Poverty History believe is the cause of world poverty?  (For the website, click here.)  Do you agree with their assertion? Explain your answer.

4.  How much foreign aid money did the U.S. distribute in 2003?  How much additional aid to Africa has President Bush promised for 2005?  Why do you think the U.S. is never commended for its charity?  How much is enough money to send to poor countries?

5.  Why does a group of leading economists and scholars say the G8 plan to forgive $40 billion in debt is not only misguided but harmful?  What recommendations does Mr. Thornbury make regarding debt in African countries (para. 12)?

6.  From 1989 to 1997 how much debt did Western nations write off for 41 poor countries?  How much new debt have these countries accrued?  Describe the types of loans they secured (para. 14).  What do you conclude from this information?

7.  In your own words, describe at least 4 specific points that critics make about the flaws of the debt forgiveness plan.  What alternate plan do they propose for helping poor countries out of debt?

8.  Live8 and others appear to be sincerely committed to eliminating poverty.  Do you agree with their plan?  Explain your answer.

9.  How has this article affected your thinking on world poverty?