Common Core State Standard L.CCS.1/2/3/4 Grades 6-12: Video of a current news event is presented for discussion to encourage student participation, but also inspire the use of evidence to support logical claims using the main ideas of the video. Students must analyze background information provided about a current event, draw out the main ideas and key details, and review different opinions on the issue. Then, students should present their own claims using facts and analysis for support.
12/14/2015
Hot-selling Hoverboards Linked to Dangerous Fires
Hoverboards have caused at least six serious fires nationwide due to what critics say are cheap lithium batteries that quickly overheat. There are currently no safety standards for the two-wheeled machines. However, the U.S Consumer Product Safety Commission is investigating the fires as well as user accidents that have caused serious injuries. Overstock.com announced that it would no longer sell the hottest-selling holiday gift because of the safety concerns.
■Class discussion: Do you own or want a hoverboard? Do the safety issues concern you? Why or why not? If a hoverboard explosion injured you or burned down your house, who should be held responsible? A Chinese manufacturer? A U.S. seller? The board purchaser? Hoverboards have been banned from airline flights and New York City streets. Do you think the product could be banned completely? Could tough safety rules ultimately save the boards from extinction?