If you are like me, or many Americans, just being able to identify Iran and Iraq on a map can be a challenge. Now, the news is filled with concern over the rising tension between the US and Iran. So what does that mean for us as special education teachers? Do we just ignore these current events, or do we try to help our students understand why they matter? Do we even know ourselves why it matters?
The Middle East can seem like a mysterious place that we might want to ignore. Why do our students need to worry about what is happening all around the world? These are all good questions. They do not have easy answers. I will share my thoughts, even though I know many people may disagree. And if you want to teach your students a little more about this culture, I have a book you can download.
If you teach older students, there is one main reason I think you need to address this current news with your students. Whatever happens in Iran following the assassination of Maj. If Gen. Qassim Suleimani is taken out by US military troops, the effect will certainly be felt here in the US. And I believe our students will, in some way, personally feel this effect as well.
1. Increased deployment of military troops
More troops are heading to the Middle East in response to the increased threat from Iran. This means, for many of our students, there may be a family member or close friend who will soon be gone. Students may feel confused and sad. In addition, family members may be distracted and less attentive. When students understand a situation, it often eases their anxiety. Finally, it gives parents a tool to use at home to talk with their kids about what is happening, especially when it significantly impacts their family.
2. Increased cost of living
Any threat to a nation in the Middle East can cause oil prices to rise. Hours after this most recent attack, oil prices around the world rose by $3 a barrel. Although we may not feel the effects today, if the US does end up going to war, they will be felt economically by all Americans. War is expensive. The threat of war in an oil-rich country is even more costly.
Many families today live paycheck to paycheck. If the cost of a gallon of gas increases, that can mean fewer vacations or even trips to the local park. The price of many products we buy is determined by the cost of getting that product to the store. This involves large trucks and lots of gas. A war in the Middle East could actually affect what a family serves for dinner. It could also affect how often they can go to McDonald’s for dinner. Our students will find it difficult to understand the reason behind these changes. And, although they may not like it, we can help them understand why they are happening.
3. Increase in tension
As with any major news event, it can bring tension and uncertainty. Our students feel these shifts in attention and routines, and it can make them feel unsafe. Our students may not be able to fully grasp what is occurring in the Middle East, but we can certainly assure them that it has nothing to do with them. If students can grasp even the basic idea that the tension is caused by events far away, it can reduce their anxiety about it affecting them more directly.
4. Educate parents
So, here is the truth. Very few people understand what is happening in the Middle East. As a country, we do not understand or appreciate this culture. So, when things like this occur, it is very challenging for us to make sense of it. And, if parents do not understand what is happening, then how can they answer their kids’ questions? By teaching students this information in the classroom, the material then goes home for the parents to see and consume.
To help you learn more about the Middle East and share that information with your students and parents, I have a book I wrote on this topic. It is perfect for middle and high school (a little too deep for elementary level, unfortunately.) Click the button below to download it.
If you want more information on teaching about current events, grab a free lesson plan and book on Immigration, read the blog post I have HERE.
