Procedure:
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Step 1:
You will need to conduct research on the broad topics at the heart of our debt crisis to gain an understanding of the key concepts of where our tax money is spent. It might be helpful to first take a look at the programs funded by tax revenues and critically examine their utility. Then, evaluate the negative aspects/outcomes of debt on the economy (there are many, you should come up with a list of at least 3).
use this resource/website for more information: http://apps.irs.gov/app/understandingtaxes/students/activity.jsp
Step 2:
Research to compare and contrast the advantages and disadvantages of following strategies for cutting the national debt: cutting spending without raising taxes, raising taxes without cutting spending, or a combination of raising taxes and cutting spending.
As a group, consider the following questions after looking at the links provided.
· When considering whether to raise taxes, whose taxes would/should be raised? Wealthy citizens, middle class citizens, economically disadvantaged citizens, all citizens (regardless of class in society)?
· When considering the advantages and disadvantages associated with spending cuts as a means of reducing the debt, analyze the possible impacts of reducing spending in a particular area. From what area would you cut? Why?
· What are the possible future impacts of the solution you propose? Think ten years down the road. For example, would cuts to college grant programs affect your future ability to attend college?
Step 3:
Synthesize the information you have been provided, and in small groups, construct a possible solution to the debt crisis you will present as a committee to the full house of representatives.
Your group presentation should demonstrate that you have analyzed all aspects of the issue and propose a solution with broad detail. Your colleagues will want to see that you have carefully considered alternative solutions during your presentation.
Step 4:
As a group, make a 10 minute presentation to the class. who will act a members of the full House of Representatives. You can prepare a power point presentation or use other media, for example, a point paper, or brochure to guide your presentation.
**I would STRONGLY recommend searching online for videos to support your argument/presentation as an attention getter and way to persuade your audience on supporting your position!**
You will need to conduct research on the broad topics at the heart of our debt crisis to gain an understanding of the key concepts of where our tax money is spent. It might be helpful to first take a look at the programs funded by tax revenues and critically examine their utility. Then, evaluate the negative aspects/outcomes of debt on the economy (there are many, you should come up with a list of at least 3).
use this resource/website for more information: http://apps.irs.gov/app/understandingtaxes/students/activity.jsp
Step 2:
Research to compare and contrast the advantages and disadvantages of following strategies for cutting the national debt: cutting spending without raising taxes, raising taxes without cutting spending, or a combination of raising taxes and cutting spending.
As a group, consider the following questions after looking at the links provided.
· When considering whether to raise taxes, whose taxes would/should be raised? Wealthy citizens, middle class citizens, economically disadvantaged citizens, all citizens (regardless of class in society)?
· When considering the advantages and disadvantages associated with spending cuts as a means of reducing the debt, analyze the possible impacts of reducing spending in a particular area. From what area would you cut? Why?
· What are the possible future impacts of the solution you propose? Think ten years down the road. For example, would cuts to college grant programs affect your future ability to attend college?
Step 3:
Synthesize the information you have been provided, and in small groups, construct a possible solution to the debt crisis you will present as a committee to the full house of representatives.
Your group presentation should demonstrate that you have analyzed all aspects of the issue and propose a solution with broad detail. Your colleagues will want to see that you have carefully considered alternative solutions during your presentation.
Step 4:
As a group, make a 10 minute presentation to the class. who will act a members of the full House of Representatives. You can prepare a power point presentation or use other media, for example, a point paper, or brochure to guide your presentation.
**I would STRONGLY recommend searching online for videos to support your argument/presentation as an attention getter and way to persuade your audience on supporting your position!**