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CURRENT EVENT | December 13, 2017

Largest National Monument Reduction in History

President Obama established the Bears Ears National Monument in Utah in 2016, which is sacred to Native Americans and dense with ancient artifacts. Now, President Trump has dramatically reduced the size of Bears Ears and Grand Staircase Monuments. There is debate whether the vast amount of land protected under the federal government hurts or helps the communities that surround the monument, including local ranchers and Native Americans. Listen to learn how the park reductions will affect different groups and spark a legal battle.

Story Length: 2:29

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Trump Orders Largest National Monument Reduction In U.S. History

SOURCE:

12/04/2017

Listening Link (share with students)

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

https://app.listenwise.com/students/events/1031-largest-national-monument-reduction-in-history

Listening Comprehension Questions

What are two reasons to support and oppose keeping this land protected?
What precedent is there for a president to establish a national monument?
What would happen to rural communities if President Trump reduced the size of the monuments?
Does the job of creating monuments belong to the president or Congress?
What arguments might groups that oppose this reduction use to challenge this decision in court?

Classroom Discussion Themes

Do you think the Native American Tribes or the rural communities will be affected more by this reduction? Explain your answer.
What do you think is the purpose of national monuments?

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