This Issue:

Table of Contents

Cover Story

Cover Story - Spanish Version

Mini-Lesson

Comprehension Quiz

Teacher's Guide and Worksheets

A New Way Forward

Spanish Translation

Will sending more troops to Iraq help the United States win the war? President George W. Bush says it will. Last week, he set out his plan for victory.

Bush admitted that the state of Iraq is "unacceptable." He said he had made mistakes. "The responsibility rests with me," he told the nation.

Then, he explained his new plan. An additional 21,500 troops will be sent to Iraq. Their mission is to work closely with Iraqi forces to improve security in the country.

Rebuilding a Country

More than 3,000 Americans have died in the war. In just under four years, the U.S. has spent more than $400 billion.

Now, the U.S. is asking Iraqis to spend $10 billion of their own money to rebuild their country. But first, they will have to work together. That will not be easy. There are daily acts of violence among the different ethnic and religious groups in Iraq.

The President has the power to send troops to battle. But he needs the support of the people and the members of Congress. Most Americans are against sending more troops to fight in Iraq.

Bush told Americans that the year ahead will demand sacrifice. He praised the troops' hard work. "The United States is blessed to have extraordinary and selfless men and women willing to step forward and defend us," he said. That is one thing that all Americans can agree on.

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