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Understanding ISIS

The United States and its allies are currently bombing terrorist strongholds in Iraq and Syria after the group ISIS, the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, stepped up its violence against non-Sunni muslim Iraqis and Western hostages. ISIS now controls territory in both Syria and Iraq. The terrorist group is moving towards the goal of creating a unified Islamic State. This public radio story helps explain who this group is, what their goals are and how they are different from al-Qaeda.
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In the fifth year of the Syrian civil war, more than 250,000 Syrians have lost their lives and more than 11 million people have fled their homes. The city of Aleppo in Syria remains under siege and rebel areas are being bombarded daily by warplanes, killing hundreds of people. The cease-fire between the Russian supported Syrian regime of Bashar al-Assad and the U.S. backed rebel groups collapsed. There was a deadly attack on a humanitarian convoy, which led to the United Nations halting aid to Syria. In addition to aerial attacks, there are ground offensives, and the water supply was cut off to the opposition-held half of the city. Listen to hear more about the escalation of fighting in Syria.
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CURRENT EVENT | November 1, 2016

The Fight for Mosul, Iraq

The city of Mosul, Iraq is the largest city under ISIS control. After 2 years of violence in Mosul, Iraqi government forces and their allies are planning to retake the city of about one million people. The long-awaited military operations could take weeks or even months. Some people fleeing Mosul do not intend to return home when ISIS is defeated. Like many displaced people, they fear chaos and violence will continue in Mosul, and do not trust that local officials will maintain order. Listen to hear what Mosul may look like after the war.

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After ISIS, People From Mosul Fear What May Come Next

SOURCE:

10/18/2016

Listening Link (share with students)

Copy this link and distribute for students to listen from their own device.

https://app.listenwise.com/students/events/775-the-fight-for-mosul-iraq

Listening Comprehension Questions

Why are people from Mosul skeptical about returning home after ISIS is defeated?
What can be learned from looking at cases of other cities in Iraq that have been liberated from ISIS?
According to the Iraqi Government, what will happen to families associated with ISIS after Mosul is liberated?
What do you think would need to happen before some people are willing to consider returning to Mosul after the war?

Classroom Discussion Themes

In what ways would you feel similar to the man displaced from Mosul if you were in his situation?
In your opinion, what do you think should happen to the families who have relatives who worked for ISIS?

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