Current Events Articles Instructions and Grading Rubric

Introduction:
Throughout the year, you will be asked to find and analyze 1 current events articles in relation to the theme of independence movements. Articles may come from the internet or a print source, but be sure to include the proper MLA citation and attach a copy of the article to your work (link/imbed…etc). Your task will be to inform yourself and others about current world movements as they relate to course themes. In order to make this process simple and direct, a specific format will be used.

Instructions:
Use the following format below to analyze your chosen article Include the headings in bold exactly as seen here, and please double space your work. In class you will then briefly walk through this article with your peers and examine its key points. Try to create a brief discussion with the class about the article and its relationship/importance to coursework.

Each section below is worth 5 points on a 1-5 scale.

Issue: Write one to three short sentences describing the location and internal parties necessary to briefly summarize the event.

In 1988 in the capital of Riga thousands of Latvians started a mass movement to pressure Moscow for a better independence from the Soviet Union.

Significances:

1) Write at least 2 significant things about this event as they relate to either the current world or a smaller part of it (i.e. what impact does a movement like this have on its own country, surrounding countries or a globalized world). One to three sentences each
2) Estonia and Lithuania had also established a movement that aimed at gaining independence.
3) The three parliaments elected to restore their former national flags. As well as they made gave their languages an equal status to Russian.


Analysis:
1) Write at least 2 reasons how this event can be analyzed in relation to our course discussions of the related topic. Is it biased, does it seem reliable, Is the author competent, does this article seem appropriate and useful?
2) The article is giving information about Latvia’s independence movement aimed at gaining independence from the Soviet Union in the political climate that within Gorbachev’s leadership.
3) Latvia has gained declared full independence on 21 of August after an attempt to go against Gorbachev.
4) The article is appropriate and useful source of information that summarizes the events of 1988 and gives reliable information on the political situation in Latvia. As well as it’s route to gaining independence. In addition the article is not biased as it gives quite a few quotations of both sides and interests.


Quote: Write one exact quote from your article here, try to choose a quote that you find interesting or that embodies the article and its purpose or argument as a whole.

“Urys Voyes, a university professor and leading member of the LTF is confident real change can be achieved. “As Mr Gorbachev has gained the upper hand, so we may hope - which we couldn't before."
Citation: In MLA format, cite the article and any other references you find useful in researching this topic (if necessary).

http://aisccurrentissues.wikispaces.com/file/view/Current+Events.doc