Before electronic communication, people had to rely on primitive means of conveying information over long distances. Have students try to communicate with each other in pairs using Morse code and the blunt end of a marker to tap out messages, or have them design flags to use for semaphore communications. Students will need to research the symbols for these using the Web sites provided below. In a class discussion, elicit reasons from students as to why these forms of communication are less effective and efficient than television, the telephone, or the Internet. Have students work in groups to research the Sunderbans' physical and biological features, and share their findings.
Thai officials have a slogan for the gold campaign seen in the video.
Ask students if they understand why Thailand's government is in need of economic help. Have students work in groups to research the Asian economic crisis that occurred four years ago and its lingering effects today. Discuss the impact of the crisis on the value of the Thai baht, and how this impact affects everyday life in Thailand. In this video, we hear that the Space Needle is the symbol of the Pacific Northwest. Divide your class into groups.