Current Events
Lack of employment is also an issue faced by the Americans. In the year 2008 about 115,000 workers lost jobs in Florida. This has made it difficult for citizens to pay their mortgage and other necessities. President Obama during his campaign for elections promised to create more jobs (Real Clear Politics, 2008).
A Brief Look At Thematic Strands
Utilization of Power, Authority and Governance
To effectively teach students, I will give them a brief history of power and governance. For instance by giving them history of the previous presidents who have been in power before and the economic state then. I will also explain to them American constitution and how the government is supposed to be run and maintained. I will let them ask questions on how they think Obamas administration is as compared to the previous administration and the state of the nation economically, socially and as viewed by the world. Judging from what the students know I will give them the current situation. For instance The Economist (2010) Judging by president Obamas first year in office, he has demonstrated competence and discipline. He is dedicated to improving the welfare of the people New York Times (28th Jan 2010) states Obama administrations early months in office were dominated by a single issue The economy Obama made the central bank to obtain a written document of approval from the treasury concerning emergency funding. He also proposed review of Federal government structure and use of funds (Robert, 2009)
Science Technology and Society
For better understanding of this concept, I will start by giving students technological trends that have been there. I will give them the importance of technology and how we have benefited from it. Students will mention some of the technologies and scientific discoveries they are aware of. I will then give them the challenges of technology, the current situation and what the government is doing about it. For instance, Science and technology has boosted the growth of American Economy since world war two. Obama promised to keep this trend as a priority in his administration. He acknowledges the innovation demonstrated by scientists. He also understands the challenges faced and gives remedies for new approaches to solving problems. He promised that his administration will increase funding for research and encourage young upcoming scientists (Science Debate, 2008).
Production Distribution and Consumption
To address this issue, I will give students some of the product and services that are produced in the country.
I will provide ways of fairly distributing them and how it is has been done. Students will then give examples on areas they think there is unequal distribution. From these examples I will elaborate to them the reasons and what the government is doing to improve. For instance the issue of distribution of resources and management among all the states in America is paramount in president Obama administration. Obama recently announced the use of 467 million from the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act to enhance development and utilization of geothermal power for all states in America. This is a move that will increase Americans competitiveness and also support jobs that will ensure quality energy (U.S Department of energy, 2009).
About creating jobs for the citizens, New York Times (8th Dec 2009) said Mr. Obama outlined proposals intended to promote job creation. They include incentives for small businesses to hire more workers and additional money to build roads Obama is also concerned with heath care which forms the main part of the domestic priority. Jonathan (2009) Key members of congress have promised to introduce ambitious health care reform legislation in 2009.
Applying The NCSS Thematic Strands To Teach 11th graders
Thematic Strands as proposed by the NCSS have been identified as a new and fresh era of teaching Social Studies and Humanities to promote civic competence as well as adequately educate and equip students and young learners with the necessary knowledge and social tools.
When addressing the Thematic Strands in relation to the current state of the US economy, it is important to note that the US economy was in a serious financial crisis that affected major US banks, lending institutions, mortgage companies and the housing sector at large. Plenty of investors wrongly took risks they should not have taken. This led to a near collapse of the sector. When the new administration of president Barrack Obama took office they provided financial aid to financial institutions and banks to prevent them from going under. In return the institutions were expected to be properly regulated, avail funds to small businesses to enable them grow, compete and hire new workers.
Regarding the housing sector which was badly hit by the economic recession the new administration provided a lifeline to home owners. This was done in several ways such as extending the time before foreclosure, providing single mums with access to financial assistance and reducing premiums for other home owners.
Regarding jobs creation, the president has provided incentives such as tax waivers to companies and small businesses which hire new workers. There is also a significant focus on retraining workers for new kind of jobs. Also a new impetus has been focused on creating green jobs and availing green technology.
By using presidential powers and his administrations position, Barrack Obama has positively influenced policy to assist middle income families, create employment and reduce the impact of the recession on American families and businesses.
When applying the Thematic Strands when teaching 11th graders, it is important to focus on relevant questions on each thematic strand. If it is the strand on power authority and governance ask the students how does presidential and congressional power positively affect the average American child and family How about small businesses Is the governance of those in power positively affecting the nation and its people
In terms of production distribution and consumption of goods and services, are the goods and services provided useful to me and my family What are the benefits to society Does the end result make me happy Why Are there ways to improve these provisions
As the president has made new and green technology his main focus and that of his administration, how will this positively change the way you view technology What new avenues will open Will there be new jobs created Will I be in a position to benefit from this new technology
Allow student to participate by making positive contributions. Ensure they address both positive and negative aspects pf each thematic strand as specified by the NCSS. Let them also contribute any changes, adjustments theyd make had they the chance.
Conclusion
From all the above sources it is clear that Obamas administration is dedicated to the welfare of the citizens. In addressing the benefits, the outcomes and the results of the policies of the Obama administration it is useful when applying Thematic Strands to focus on positive aspects of each. Allow student participation and listen to the views provided. Paint a background picture for the 11th graders so they may have a clearer picture of the situation at hand.
Categories:
0 comments:
Post a Comment