Answer Close-Reading Questions
Have students write their responses, or use the Close-Reading Questions to guide a discussion.
• What is civil discourse? How can it help people and the country? (Central Idea)
Civil discourse is the practice of having respectful and constructive conversations with people who have different viewpoints. The goal is not to change someone’s mind but to understand other people’s perspectives. Civil discourse can help people solve problems, come up with new ideas, and bridge political or social divides. It can help elected leaders find solutions that will benefit many Americans.
• How should you listen when engaging in civil discourse? (Key Details)
Experts say you should really listen to what the other person is saying, instead of just thinking about what you’re going to say next. Cheryl Graeve suggests trying to put yourself in the other person’s shoes. Restating the other person’s ideas can help you find out whether you understood them correctly. Pointing out connections and common ground can also make it easier to hear and value each other’s input.
• How does the sidebar “Check the Facts!” support the article? (Text Features)
The sidebar offers four suggestions for researching a topic before having a potentially difficult conversation. It suggests that people do research using trustworthy sources and verify information using impartial websites. It also emphasizes the importance of seeking out a range of news sources, admitting when you are wrong about something, and challenging those giving information that isn’t true in a respectful way.