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1. Introduce globalization.
Explain to students that globalization, in its simplest form, means a more connected world. Globalization is the movement and integration of goods and people among different countries. Globalization is driven by international trade and aided by information technology. Make sure students understand that there are pros and cons to globalization, all of which have economic, social, political, and cultural impacts. Ask them to brainstorm what some pros and cons may be, and write them on the board.
2. Distribute the worksheet and have students research globalization.
Distribute copies of the worksheet Decision Matrix to each student. Have students use the provided websites to conduct their own research and to learn more about the issues in the debate over globalization. They can also find resources at the school library or a local library. Ask students to record the information they find on the worksheet.
3. Have students decide what they think about globalization.
Based on their research, tell students to select the arguments that they believe are most valid.
4. Have students write about globalization.
Have students write a bulleted list of information that supports the views they selected. Tell students they can choose one aspect of globalization, such as economic costs and benefits, or they can look at the issue as a whole.
5. Have students debate globalization.
Divide the class into two groups: students who focused on pros and students who focused on cons. Have the two groups debate the issue. Make sure students back up any statements with factual information from reliable resources.
Extending the Learning
If possible, have students watch the National Geographic film Illicit: The Dark Trade. An excerpt of the film is provided in this activity. Go to the PBS website to find out where you can get the full DVD.
Subjects & Disciplines
- Geography
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Social Studies
- Economics
Learning Objectives
Students will:
- define
- conduct research about globalization
- identify pros and cons of globalization
- choose and support one side of the debate
Teaching Approach
- Learning-for-use
Teaching Methods
- Information organization
- Research
- Writing
Skills Summary
This activity targets the following skills:
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Critical Thinking Skills
- Analyzing
- Understanding
- Geographic Skills
Connections to National Standards, Principles, and Practices
National Geography Standards
- Standard 11: The patterns and networks of economic interdependence on Earth's surface
Voluntary National Content Standards in Economics
- Standard 3: Allocation of Goods and Services: Different methods can be used to allocate goods and services. People acting individually or collectively through government, must choose which methods to use to allocate different kinds of goods and services.
What You’ll Need
Materials You Provide
- Paper
- Pencils
- Pens
Required Technology
- Internet Access: Required
- Tech Setup: 1 computer per learner, Speakers
Physical Space
- Computer lab
Grouping
- Large-group instruction
Background Information
Globalization is the movement and integration of goods and people among different countries. There are advantages and disadvantages to globalization, all of which have economic, social, political, and cultural impacts.
Prior Knowledge
- None
Recommended Prior Activities
- None
Vocabulary
connection of different parts of the world resulting in the expansion of international cultural, economic, and political activities.
Websites
Tips & Modifications
Modification
If time allows, have groups swap positions after the debate. Having students debate both sides of an issue builds their critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Funder
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Global Economy: Trade
The global economy is innately tied to trade; it allows countries around the world to obtain any resource they may want, whether or not it is produced on the home front. This availability of resources is facilitated through trade. The global economy allows us to eat the foods we want all year round and buy clothing and gadgets at lower prices. During times of peace, it is beneficial in a global economy, to see other nations succeed. On the other hand, during times of unrest, dependence on outside nations, in a global economy, may seem scary. Due to globalization and other factors, it is impossible for large industrialized nations to exit the global economy without devastating effects. These resources will help to teach middle school students more about the global economy and the central role trade plays.
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United States Immigration
Immigration is the process of moving to a new country or region with the intention of staying and living there. People may choose to immigrate for a variety of reasons, such as employment opportunities, to escape a violent conflict, environmental factors, educational purposes, or to reunite with family. The process of immigrating to the United States can be complicated and is often driven by a few key principles including uniting families, boosting the economy with skilled professionals, promoting diversity, and helping refugees. Learn more about U.S. immigration with this curated resource collection.
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Redefining Work Debate: Are Robots Taking Over Our Jobs?
Students participate in a debate on the issue of human workers being replaced by robots and automation.
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Stakeholder Debate: Wind Energy
Students investigate conflicts over the use of wind energy in Nantucket Sound, take on the role of a stakeholder in the debate, and hold a town council meeting to decide whether or not a wind energy project should be implemented.
-
Effects of Economic Globalization
Globalization has led to increases in standards of living around the world, but not all of its effects are positive for everyone.
-
Global Economy: Trade
The global economy is innately tied to trade; it allows countries around the world to obtain any resource they may want, whether or not it is produced on the home front. This availability of resources is facilitated through trade. The global economy allows us to eat the foods we want all year round and buy clothing and gadgets at lower prices. During times of peace, it is beneficial in a global economy, to see other nations succeed. On the other hand, during times of unrest, dependence on outside nations, in a global economy, may seem scary. Due to globalization and other factors, it is impossible for large industrialized nations to exit the global economy without devastating effects. These resources will help to teach middle school students more about the global economy and the central role trade plays.
-
United States Immigration
Immigration is the process of moving to a new country or region with the intention of staying and living there. People may choose to immigrate for a variety of reasons, such as employment opportunities, to escape a violent conflict, environmental factors, educational purposes, or to reunite with family. The process of immigrating to the United States can be complicated and is often driven by a few key principles including uniting families, boosting the economy with skilled professionals, promoting diversity, and helping refugees. Learn more about U.S. immigration with this curated resource collection.
-
Redefining Work Debate: Are Robots Taking Over Our Jobs?
Students participate in a debate on the issue of human workers being replaced by robots and automation.
-
Stakeholder Debate: Wind Energy
Students investigate conflicts over the use of wind energy in Nantucket Sound, take on the role of a stakeholder in the debate, and hold a town council meeting to decide whether or not a wind energy project should be implemented.
-
Effects of Economic Globalization
Globalization has led to increases in standards of living around the world, but not all of its effects are positive for everyone.