Listenwise News Bites

This week we cover the results of the 2020 Presidential election with Joe Biden winning the necessary electoral votes. And what kinds of signals to do you send to others about your friendships? For student reflection: How might laughter help humans and other animals survive?

This week we look at the legality of the rise of private militias and hear the inspiring story of the first all-Black high school rowing team. For student reflection: How do you think doing a sport helps you win in life?

This week we look at how a COVID-19 superspreading event seems to have created a cluster of COVID cases at the White House, including President Trump and the First Lady. Also board games are surging in popularity as people have more time at home. For student reflection: What can you do to stay healthy and keep those around you safe?

This week showcases the wildfires that are ravaging the Northwest. We look at how difficult it is to fight fires during a pandemic. And we hear about the importance of using punctuation in text messages. For student reflection: How do you think communities can help people affected by the wildfires?

This week we look back on the 57th anniversary of the Civil Rights March on Washington at a time when marches for racial justice are demanding change. We learn about zoos reopening from the pandemic and 11-year-old Gui Khury who became the first skateboarder to land a 1080-degree spin during quarentine. For student reflection: Do you think public marches are effective tools for advancing social change?

This week we hear how one state has successfully conducted mail in voting. And a National Football League team changes it name because it's a racial slur. For student reflection: How can sports team names, mascots, images, and fan gestures cause harm?

This week we learn how the pandemic is growing in the U.S. and we hear about the importance of the voting rights act. For student reflection: Why is it important that all citizens have an equal opportunity to vote?

This week we remember civil rights icon Congressman John Lewis. And we learn how some people can spread the corona-virus without even knowing they have it. For student reflection: What can you do to protect yourself and others from silent spreaders?

This week we hear about how masks can protect you and others in this pandemic. Also, we revisit the Emancipation Memorial in Washington, DC. As Confederate statues and other symbols of racism are being dismantled around the country, some people are calling for this statue’s removal, too. For student reflection: Do you think learning that masks protect the wearer will encourage more people to wear them?

This week we hear about how schools leaders are thinking about how to safely reopen school in the fall. And what does the earth look like from space? For student reflection: What ideas do you have for keeping schools safe during a pandemic?