Work it out

1. After you've read the story, review the full-page graphic "Race, the Race and Relatability" (page 34). What information does the graphic deliver? On what is the information based? In pairs or small groups, create a list of statements that communicates the major revelations of the poll. Now, compare those statements to the concerns expressed in the story. Does this information confirm the validity of those concerns, or does it counter them? What conclusions can you draw? Communicate those conclusions in a class discussion or in a classroom blog posting.

2. Based on questions asked in the Newsweek poll, design and conduct your own poll of fellow students on the issues of race and class in this year's presidential election. Make sure that the poll is confidential. Organize and communicate results of the poll. How do the results compare with those compiled by Newsweek? What might account for similarities or differences? Communicate what you've learned in a graphic or in a print or online story for the school newspaper.

© 2008