Materials

• None identified

Instructional Activities

1. Remind students that in the previous session they learned that communities need spatial divisions to define responsibility for control. Explain that sometimes these divisions are not always governmental but may be cultural. Display the following reasons for cooperation among and within spatial divisions, and discuss each with the class:
   • Dealing with natural disasters
   • Economic advantages (attract new businesses)
   • Cultural similarities, ethnic neighborhoods
   • Addressing regional issues (e.g., waste management, magnet schools, transportation)
   • Share with the students examples of each of these reasons for cooperation.
   
   
2. Explain that while spatial divisions provide definition for government control and boundaries for services as well as centers for ethnic groups, they can also lead to conflict. Display the following reasons for conflict, and discuss each with the class:
   • Boundary disputes
   • Cultural differences
   • Economic differences
   • Competition for scarce resources
   • Political advantages (e.g., gerrymandering)
   • Share with the students examples of each of these reasons for conflict.
   
   
3. Assign a teacher-selected reading, worksheet, or other reinforcement activity, using available teacher resources.