Immigration: Then, Now, and What’s Next
Immigration is at the heart of the American story—and a vital part of today’s most pressing debates. Great Decisions: U.S. Immigration, a free classroom resource from the Foreign Policy Association, helps students explore the complexities behind the headlines with empathy, historical context, and real-world data.
This issue explores questions like:
- Why do people come to the U.S.—and how has that changed over time?
- What are the pathways (and barriers) to citizenship?
- How do policies like DACA and the DREAM Act impact students?
- What role does xenophobia play in shaping immigration law?
- What do young leaders and activists say about building a more inclusive future?
What It Offers Educators:
- A high-interest narrative that blends history, civics, and current events
- Debate-style sections that promote civic discourse and respectful argument
- Data visualizations and primary sources to support analytical reading skills
- Prompts for journaling, group discussion, and project-based learning
- Cross-curricular connections to social studies, ELA, and media literacy
Ways to Use It in the Classroom:
- Debate & Civics Skills: Use the “Should…” sections to spark structured student debates on policy questions.
- Research & Writing Prompts: Have students investigate immigration stories in their own communities.
- Media & Historical Literacy: Analyze the cartoon and census data to explore who is included in the American narrative—and who is left out.
- SEL & Empathy Building: Share the “Teen Trailblazers” stories to highlight youth-led civic action and personal connection.
- Discussion Starters: Use short excerpts as bell-ringers or homework to warm up for classroom dialogue.
Whether you’re diving into U.S. history, teaching persuasive writing, or exploring identity and belonging, this free download gives you everything you need to lead an informed and meaningful conversation on immigration in America today.