A Study Guide to Iraq for Elementary and Middle School Teachers

Challenging stereotypes and expanding knowledge by providing information and educational resources are a central goal of AFSC's new study guide. By introducing the rich culture and history of the Arab world, the study guide offers students the opportunity to evaluate recent U.S. actions and policies in the region.

Featuring interactive exercises on geography, language, colonialism, and culture, children will learn about deserts, waterways, customs, and discoveries from the Middle East that are relevant today. They will learn some of the things they have in common with children in Iraq, and some of the differences.

One of the seven units examines the cost and consequences of the Gulf War and continuing sanctions. Students will be introduced to a Middle Eastern way of conflict resolution called SULHA (reconciliation). They will be encouraged to explore moral questions of war and peace, and to critique collective punishment.

Fostering Friendships includes a 12-minute video, "One Million Postcards," the inspiring story of two grade-schoolers in California who are conducting a million postcard campaign to the U.S. president protesting the sanctions against Iraq.