INS practice material for Friday November 6th

Here is a categorized list of Socratic discussion questions aligned directly with each unit and core theme of the International Towne curriculum.

These questions are designed to move you beyond basic recall and push you towards critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and evaluating real-world economic trade-offs. Use terms from pg. 5-10 in your Workbooks to help provide details and evidence that support your answers.

You must prepare for each question below. You do not know which question will be asked during the Socratic Seminar, so having an answer with evidence for each question is necessary. It is recommended to have at least TWO pieces of evidence for each question to support your responses.

Unit 1: Introduction & Global Citizenship (Lesson 1)

Opening Question: What makes a community "global" rather than just local or national?

Core Discussion: If every country operates under different rules, what responsibilities do we have toward people living in other parts of the world?

If we are going to travel there, we need to accept that we might not know the local customs and laws, and it is our responsibility to educate ourselves to respect and adhere to them. And if we are interacting with individuals from those countries, we should be mindful and considerate of their cultural norms and practices.

Self-Reflection: When choosing a job in a global economy, should a person prioritize their personal strengths, their financial earning potential, or how much their role helps society? Can you have all three?

A person should consider their personal strengths, financial potential, and societal impact when choosing a job. Balancing these factors can lead to greater satisfaction and success.

Unit 2: Interdependence & the Global Marketplace (Lessons 2–5)

Opening Question: Is it possible for any country in the modern world to be completely independent? What would happen if a country tried to produce 100% of its own goods?

It is unlikely for a country to be completely independent due to global interdependencies in trade, technology, and resources. Attempting to produce 100% of its own goods could lead to inefficiencies, higher costs, and limited access to diverse products.

Core Discussion: In the Planet Money T-Shirt project, a simple shirt travels through multiple countries before it reaches a consumer. Who benefits the most from this global supply chain, and who might be at a disadvantage?

The people who might benefit most from this project are consumers and large retailers, as they enjoy lower prices and a vast selection of products. Workers in developing countries often face poor working conditions and low wages, which puts them at a disadvantage.

Trade Mechanics & Policy: If tariffs and embargos are meant to protect domestic businesses, why do they sometimes harm local consumers? When, if ever, is it fair for a nation to restrict trade with another?

They frequently harm local consumers by raising retail prices, restricting product choices, and forcing consumers to absorb the added tax burdens passed down by importing companies.

Unit 3: Supply, Demand & Economic Scarcity (Lessons 6–9)

Opening Question: If a disaster creates a severe shortage of a critical item (like bottled water or fuel), is raising the price an efficient way to manage scarcity, or is it unethical price gouging?

Raising prices during a disaster is economically efficient because it prevents hoarding and incentives suppliers to bring more critical goods to the affected area. However the people that cannot afford it when the price is raised might need it but can no longer get it.

Core Discussion: How do market economies decide who gets access to scarce resources? Is there a difference between what a market wants and what a society needs?

scarce resources are distributed through theprice mechanismandprice rationing, meaning goods and services go to whoever has the ability and willingness to pay.

Philanthropy & Global Aid: Does wealthy nation aid create long-term sustainability for developing nations, or can it unintentionally create dependence? How should global citizens decide where aid is needed most during an economic dilemma?

Unit 4: Navigating Different Cultures & Financial Systems (Lessons 10–14)

Opening Question: Money only has value because people agree it does. What gives paper currency, digital numbers, or credit cards real power in global commerce?

Core Discussion: When doing business internationally, should multinational companies adapt entirely to the local culture and customs of the host country, or stick to their own business standards?

Consumer Ethics & Advertising: Advertising influences what people want and buy. Where is the line between persuasive marketing and financial manipulation? How can consumers protect themselves when navigating credit and foreign currencies?

Unit 5: Career Readiness, Responsibility & Employment (Lessons 15–18)

Opening Question: What matters more in a job interview: possessing the exact technical skills required for the role, or demonstrating strong interpersonal and civic skills?

Core Discussion: If an employer hires someone based on a resume and cover letter, what implicit contract or trust is established before day one on the job?

Closing Preparation: How will your individual choices and work ethic during your day at International Towne impact the economic success of your entire country?

Conclusion:

What was the best part and worst part of the International Towne experience?

What can you take with you from this learning experience that will be useful later in your lives?