Contemporary Problems

• Course Description

Contemporary Problems is an exciting course dealing with the most compelling issues facing our world. As part of BBA’s Man in Society offerings, the course is designed to build on the knowledge and skills acquired in our three year World and US History program. Students will explore our modern world asking not only “How come?” but also “What if?”

The course does not have a textbook, instead we will use several media sources to initiate our discussions. These include: USA Today, the Associated Press, Fox News, CNN & NPR. Each day we will turn to these and a variety of other news sources as we begin class. Students are expected to participate fully in the analysis, synthesis and evaluation of the day’s events.

Students may elect to complete up to 4 extra credit assignments during each marking period. These consist of college level articles that students will read, discuss and write about.

Grades in this course will be based equally on Class participation, Debates, BBA News assignments, website articles and quizzes about the key terms and ideas of the issues we have studied. Late assignments will receive only 50% credit unless other arrangements have been made ahead of time.

• World at a Glance

At the beginning of each week, we meet to discuss the World at a Glance. During this portion of class, each student describes an important news item from the weekend.

• Debates

Students are required to participate in biweekly debates concerning some of the larger issues in our world. The debate topics for the semester were chosen by the students during the first few days of class. Debate preparation includes independent research as well as completion of a 5 paragraph position paper.

Debate Schedule   

Debate Tools

Prep Sheet                        Evaluation Form