On 18 May, Sweden and Finland officially applied to join NATO, a decision that could have a big impact on relations between countries in Europe. This resources pack includes an article from The Week Junior magazine, along with a sheet of activities designed to get children thinking, talking and writing about what the story means to them.
Debate
Throughout history, countries have banded together to form alliances. Isn’t it time to make this illegal under international law as it makes other countries feel insecure? Wouldn’t it be more fair if countries simply stood up for themselves? Or is it better to be able to form powerful groups of nations that promise to protect each other? Do alliances such as NATO do more to prevent wars than escalate them? What do you think?
Writing challenges
Write a short narrative extract about a bully who tries to pick on someone but is prevented by friends who stick up for the victim. Write it from the perspective of the bully, showing how their thoughts and feelings change as the scene develops.
Or
Everyone loves ABBA, the singing group from Sweden. Look up the lyrics to one of their songs, such as The Winner Takes It All, Take A Chance On Me or Knowing Me, Knowing You and rewrite them so that they are now about Sweden trying to join NATO.
Investigate
Finland is a fascinating country but not one that often gets talked about. Research and write a list of your top five interesting facts about Finland.
Find the entire series of Topical Tuesday resources to download in our Topical Tuesdays collection.
What is The Week Junior?
The Week Junior magazine looks at current affairs and helps children make sense of the world, provides context and clarity to complex issues, improves general knowledge and encourages discussion and debate.
To find out more about The Week Junior and to download its free resources, please go to The Week Junior website.