Today was spent in seminar groups. Before diving into the topics, however, I asked for feedback and suggestions for the class moving forward. The responses were diverse. Some liked the packets we've been using for this unit. Some didn't. Some thought the videos were good; others thought they got boring. Some wanted more small groups; others thought large discussions were better. I will continue to mix it up to try to meet everyone's needs. One takeaway for me was to try to make class time more interactive. I'm thinking about this, especially in relationship to next semester as I craft a project for our economics unit.
For seminar, our members of the Environment and Public Works committee discussed the government's role in addressing climate change. The discussion included a push for advancing nuclear power, a discussion of using incentives to support renewable energy, a recognition that a primary challenge is addressing cultural norms around consumption and energy use. The discussion ended in frustration with our political system in general and political parties in particular.
Members of the Judiciary Committee agreed that the immigration system is broken and that the burdens on undocumented workers are real and challenging. Half the group felt that we should relax our citizenship rules to allow people who are here to come out of hiding, live a normal life, and contribute to our country. The other half wasn't sure and worried that an easier entry process would encourage people from around the world to show up at our doorstep. Finding common sense ways to move forward is difficult. This is the task for our senators after break.
Homework due Monday, December 1st
Finish your Senator Sports Card and be ready to laminate. She this handout for an explanation. This handout has more detail. This handout gives examples.