NOTE TO STUDENTS:  There is a lot of information here.  Don't get discouraged!  It is important for you to understand this issue and the way our presidential candidates view it.  If you gain a general understanding of the issue, you will know more than many adults.  Before answering the questions, read the Background on Cap and trade below.

1. How are presidential candidates Barack Obama and John McCain's views on global warming similar?

2. What is the purpose of cap and trade programs?

3. What reason does reporter Mark Bergin give to back up his assertion that cap and trade programs don't work?

4. a) Define outsourcing.
b) Why do Senators Obama and McCain support cap and trade programs despite the problem of emissions outsourcing?

5. How do Sen. Obama and Sen. McCain's plans to halt/end global warming differ?

6. What philosophical difference does reporter Mark Bergin say the Senators' two plans highlight?

7. Why has Senator McCain reversed his longtime opposition to offshore drilling?

8. a) Define equivocation.
b) What equivocation has Sen. Obama made to his shift in position on offshore drilling?

9. Mark Bergin portrays Sen. McCain as being more pragmatic and Sen. Obama being more idealistic.
a) Do you think this is an accurate portrayal of each candidate?
b) Which type of person do you think would make a better president? Explain your answer.

10. Think about other articles you have read about global warming, cap and trade, or offshore drilling. Does reporter Mark Bergin's perspective differ from most of the articles you have read on these issues?  Explain your answer.