2.8 – Module Project and Reflection
Let’s read a graph to learn new information!
Look at the Module 2 Project handout.
You and your classmates will analyze another graph to find an answer to the question: “How do Americans view immigration?” The organization talked with between 1000-8000 people by phone every year to get this information.
Except for native Americans, most people living in the U.S. have a different country of origin in their family history. Everyone was an immigrant, but there is some opposition to immigration. Every year, the Pew Research Center asks people in the U.S. their thoughts on immigration.
Graph title: _______________________________________________________
(answer the questions below before thinking of a title to describe this graph)
- What do you notice about the graph? What do you wonder?
- What do the words “burden” and “strengthen” mean?
Burden: causes a heavy load, making a situation more difficult, not helping but causing extra problems
Strengthen: makes something stronger or better - What information do you see along the bottom?
- What do the numbers 64, 31, 66, and 24 mean? Hint: look at the heading about %
Notice that ONE of the two lines shows what percent of Americans said immigrants are a burden, or a problem. THE OTHER line shows what percent of Americans say immigrants strengthen or help the country. They are opposite views. For example, in 1994, 63% said immigrants are a burden and 31% said immigrants strengthen the country.
Working with a partner or small groups, review the graph and answer/discuss the following questions on the worksheet:
- What are the numbers in 2019?
- How did people’s thoughts change between 1994-2019?
- Why do you think people’s views changed over the years?
- Did anything surprise you about the information in this graph?
Student groups can share their observations with the whole class.
Now that you know more about the information shared in this graph, what title should you write for it? Decide as a class and write your title above the graph on your worksheet.
Big Questions
We are at the end of Module 2! Based on your learning, how would you answer these questions?
Do a 3-5-minute “quick write” about one or more of the questions below OR be prepared to discuss one/both of them.
Questions #1-2: Why do people move? What experiences are common to people who move to new places?
Question #3: How can a person fit into a new country and still stay connected to their old one?
Extend Your Learning!
1) Interested in more data about U.S. immigrants? Check out these Frequently Requested Statistics on Immigrants and Immigration in the United States from the Migration Policy Institute.
2) What are the contributions of immigrants in your community?
Take one or two photos of immigrant-created businesses or activities. Send the photos to the class WhatsApp Group. Make sure to include a short written description of the images.
