Note: Read the "Background" below the questions and watch the video under "Resources."

1. What is the tone of the first paragraph of this news report on close Senate races?

2. What is the current makeup of the U.S. Senate?

3. How many Senate seats are up for election this year? How many of those are Democrat - how many Republican?

4. a) List the states the CBS News reporter says are possible pickups for Democrats.
b) What do you think the chances are for a Democrat win in both/either of these states?

5. What is significant about Michigan and Maryland's close races?

6. Regarding the senate race in Texas, the CBS reporter writes: "Texas remains among Democrats' best pickup opportunities in the upper chamber."
What further information do you learn that indicates this is probably unlikely?

7. Read the blurb about the Nebraska senate race. What do you think the outcome will be?

CHALLENGE: Follow the results of all senate races. Which party will have the majority? What are the numbers?