David Sirota Complains

David Sirota is complaining that some members of the media, he particularly mentions Bill Schneider, are questioning hte political implications of Elizabeth Edwards' cancer. He titles his piece, Is Absolutely Nothing Sacred. Sirota writes, "Are these people really so soulless that they are speculating on who "wins" and "loses" politically from the revelation that Elizabeth Edwards has a life-threatening battle with cancer?"

Lesson Ideas:
1. Here's a great opportunity to consider the difference between a primary source and a secondary source. First ask students to read Sirota's short article. Based on what he writes, what do they think that Bill Schneider said in his article? Consider asking them to write the article that they imagine Schneider wrote. Then, have students read Schneider's article. Is Sirota's take on it appropriate or not? Why?
2. What do your students think motivated Schneider's article? What do they think motivated Sirota's article?
3. What does the word, "sacred" mean? Do students think that anything is sacred in the United States anymore? They should support their opinions thoughtfully. What might be sacred? (e.g., money, beauty, God).

Just some thoughts in resposne to a very popular blogger's thoughts.