1. For each of the 3 countries, give the following information:
a) capital
b) location/the countries that share its borders
c) the religious breakdown of the population
d) the type of government
e) the chief of state (and head of government if different) If monarch or dictator, since what date has he/she ruled? – include name of heir apparent for monarch
f) the population
[Find the answers at the CIA World FactBook website. For each country, answers can be found under the “Geography” “People” and “Government” headings.  NOTE: Some answers can still be found at the WorldFactBook (a, b and d)  -- however, we have determined that it is no longer always accurate for c, e and f.  Instead, the most accurate for these answers is Wikipedia - search there for "Religion in ___" or "Politics of ____" for the leaders.  Just do an internet search for "Population of ___."]

NOTE to students: Before answering the questions below, read the info under “Background” and watch the videos under “Resources.”

2. For CHINA:
a) list the who, what, where and when of the news item
b) How do analysts view China’s creation of artificial islands on South China Sea reefs?
c) How do some describe President Xi?

3. For NIGERIA:
a) list the who, what, where and when of the news item
b) Why are the presidential election results in Nigeria significant?
c) What is most likely the reason for Mr. Buhari’s victory?
d) Read about Mr. Buhari under “Background” below. Considering his former dictatorship, what do you think is the likelihood that he will be a democratic leader this time around? If he did ‘rule with an iron fist’, but destroyed Boko Haram, would you care if you were a citizen of Nigeria? Explain your answers.

4. For THAILAND:
a) list the who, what, where and when of the news item
b) Define junta, martial law, coup and absolute power.
c) Why did the junta lift martial law? Be specific.
d) Read the “Background” below about Article 44 in place of martial law. Then read Prime Minister Prayuth’s comment in the last paragraph of the article on Thailand. Should the citizens of Thailand be reassured by the prime minister/junta leader’s assurance? Explain your answer.