As they watch, listen or read, have them take notes on this handout, which asks: What do these students want? What are they doing to achieve it? What impact are these actions having? Why?

Invite them to share ideas in small groups, then, as a class, compile their lists on the board.

Finally, follow up by asking students to discuss:

• What actions seem to be most effective? Why?

• Do you think these students be able to make a lasting impact on this issue? If yes, why? If no, why not?

• What barriers might they run into? Why?

• What suggestions do you have for these student activists?

• What reactions or questions do these students’ activism raise for you? Why?

If you like, you can then invite your students to add their responses to the forum we have posted in our Student Opinion section: Can High School Students Make a Real Impact on the Problem of Gun Violence in the United States?

For example, here is one comment we received from Jordyn I. of Westfield, N.J. Do your students agree?

I believe that my generation has the power to change the world more than any group before us. Unlike the generations in decades past, we have more information available to us than ever before. Social media, arguably the most powerful tool of communication in the history of the world, is at our fingertips. With the click of a button, our words can be shared with millions. All it takes is one tweet, one post on Instagram or Facebook. And a second later, your opinion is broadcasted everywhere. The internet has empowered us to have the ability to change the world, even at the young ages that we are.

Another option? Invite students to watch this video of students responding to the Parkland movement via the PBS Student Reporting Labs.

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Discuss Student Rights in the Context of Planned School Walkouts