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(CNN Student News) -- March 14, 2011

Media Literacy Question of the Day

What images and video from the Japanese earthquake and tsunami do you think will stick out in your mind? Why do you think that these videos and images were used in the program?

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Japan Earthquake

Describe the sequence of events that occurred after a magnitude 8.9 earthquake struck off the coast of Japan. What impact has this earthquake had on Japan and the world?

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How much do you know about preparing for the kinds of disasters that struck Japan recently? What resources do you think that you could use to learn more about how to prepare for disasters in general?

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Tsunami Strikes Japan

According to the program: What is a tsunami? How might an earthquake cause a tsunami? How fast can a tsunami travel? How far away was this tsunami from the earthquake's epicenter when it struck Santa Cruz, California? How did the tsunami affect the boats seen in the video from Santa Cruz?

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Why do you think that a boat at sea might experience a tsunami wave differently from one that is closer to shore? How might boaters use this information?

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Japanese Prime Minister Responds

What did Japan's prime minister say in the report is Japan's top priority in the aftermath of the quake? According to the program, what other statements did he make about this catastrophe? How do you think that the Japanese people might respond to these statements?

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What resources do you think that survivors of the earthquake and tsunami might need right now? In your opinion, what might be some long-term needs for the regions affected by these disasters?

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Nuclear Plant Meltdown Concerns

As described in the program, how does a nuclear power plant produce energy? What safety features do reactors have to prevent overheating?

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According to the report: What may have caused an explosion at one of Japan's nuclear power plants? What could happen if too much radiation escapes from the reactor?

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In your opinion, what measures should Japan take with regard to the safety of people who live near this reactor?

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International Community Responds

How has the international community responded to the earthquake in Japan? What kind of aid do you think that the international community might offer Japan?

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In your opinion, what can you and your classmates do to help people in Japan? What resources might you need to accomplish this?

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