1. The first paragraph of a news article should answer the questions who, what, where and when. List the who, what, where and when of this news item. (NOTE: The remainder of a news article provides details on the why and/or how.)

2. a) How long are the closures expected to last?
b) How many workers are affected by the closures?
c) In what cities/states did the closures occur?

3. What type of compensation is Wal-Mart giving employees in the affected stores?

4. For what reasons are employees and some local officials skeptical of the sudden closures? Be specific.

5. Some employees believe that the stores were closed because of worker protests for higher pay. Ask a parent: What do you think about this assertion? Explain your answer.