The Assignment:
Write an argumentative (take a side) op-ed (opinion essay) to the school newspaper, the Clarion, arguing for or against contemporary (current) interventionist (expansionist) foreign policies dilemmas that considers past political, ideological, and economic motives.
Your op-ed should include the following components:
- An introduction that summarizes the current foreign policy dilemma and why students should care;
- Your argument for or against foreign policy intervention (expansionism) and explanation of your motives (values and beliefs) why;
- Draw connections between the dilemma you choose and consider (reflect deeply about) at least two political, ideological, or economic motives we've studied thus far in our unit ("where have we learned this lesson before?");
- A conclusion that summarizes what you learned about the current foreign policy dilemma, and what you want students to do after they read your op-ed.
As always, this is your opportunity to show what you've learned about U.S. Imperialism between 1890-1914 but also learn about important current policy dilemmas the United States faces today. Feel free to contact me with any questions.
