Questões de Inglês para Concurso

The Landscape of the U.S. Elections This Year

The U.S. elections this year have garnered significant attention both domestically and internationally, reflecting the heightened political climate and the diverse issues at stake. As the nation gears up for the presidential, congressional, and local elections, several key themes and dynamics are shaping the electoral landscape. From the primary battles within the major parties to the influence of external factors such as the economy and global events, the 2024 elections promise to be pivotal in determining the future direction of the country.

One of the central narratives of this election cycle is the intense competition within the Republican and Democratic parties. On the Republican side, former President Donald Trump remains a dominant figure, facing both support and opposition from within his party. His primary challengers are attempting to present alternatives that align with conservative values while addressing the controversies surrounding his previous administration. Meanwhile, the Democratic party is witnessing a vigorous debate between progressive and moderate factions, with President Joe Biden seeking reelection amidst calls for new leadership.

Economic issues are at the forefront of voters' minds this year, with inflation, job creation, and tax policies being hotly debated topics. The economic recovery post-pandemic remains uneven, and voters are looking for concrete plans from candidates on how to sustain growth, support small businesses, and ensure job security. The performance of the economy is expected to play a crucial role in shaping voter preferences, especially in key swing states where economic distress is more pronounced.

Social issues, including healthcare, immigration, and climate change, continue to be significant factors influencing the election. The healthcare debate has intensified with discussions on how to improve the AƯordable Care Act or implement new healthcare reforms. Immigration remains a polarizing issue, with candidates proposing various solutions to address border security and the status of undocumented immigrants. Climate change policies are also a critical component, with younger voters particularly advocating for more aggressive actions to combat environmental challenges.

The role of social media and misinformation in the elections cannot be understated. Both major parties are leveraging digital platforms to engage with voters, disseminate their messages, and counteract misinformation. However, the proliferation of fake news and deepfakes poses a significant challenge, potentially influencing public opinion and voter behavior. EƯorts to ensure the integrity of the electoral process are being heightened, with a focus on cybersecurity and the reliability of election infrastructure.

In summary, the U.S. elections this year are characterized by a complex interplay of internal party dynamics, economic concerns, social issues, and the pervasive influence of digital media. As candidates campaign across the country, the electorate is faced with crucial decisions that will shape the nation's trajectory for years to come. The outcome of these elections will not only reflect the current political climate but also set the stage for the future of American democracy.

1.    My suggestions for changing the school environment are as follows: educate Teachers on Neurodevelopmental Disabilities: In my educational career, the majority of the ableism I experienced didn’t come from other students, but teachers and other school authorities I believed were supposed to help me. I remember in my Sophomore year of high school, I emailed my English teacher to let her know I had ADHD. Her only reply was to drop the class; it was too hard for someone like me. Mind you, the school year hadn’t even started. I still took the class, and received quite high marks, but she would belittle my efforts consistently, chastising me from everything to my discussion points being “wrong” to my handwriting. Thank God for my high school’s strictness about fair grading. Secondly, educating teachers about neurodivergencies would help them with classroom and coursework planning, as well as help them to better understand disabled students.

2.     Make Classrooms More Comfortable: Cramped, uncomfortable classrooms are no good for all students, thus we need to get rid of the desk-chair model, and provide students with larger desks that have unconnected chairs, as well as space out desks. Though this is a reach, lecture halls needs to be completely redesigned to space students out (which is also helpful to prevent the spread of COVID!) and allow them greater desk space, as well as leg space! Another issue is lighting, with many classrooms lit by bright, irritating industrial lights. All classrooms should have windows, or at least less abrasive lighting, in order to combat seasonal mental illnesses, and make the classroom appear more “open” than cramped. The spaces between desks should also be accessible, to prevent others from tripping, and for students with mobility issues to access the entire classroom.

3.     Classroom Rules: It was always embarrassing for me when I had to ask for the bathroom, especially when a teacher denied my request. These rules are generally ridiculous, especially for younger children, who often are barely potty-trained. Neurodivergent children, especially those with autism, often have gastrointestinal disorders as a result of their disabilities. Some neurodivergent children simply can’t hold it either, as often times our basic needs are only sensed by us when they’re demandingly present. Asking to go to the bathroom is frankly antiquated and only hurts the student, a child shouldn’t need permission to complete such a necessary task. Another issue is that neurodivergent students are often prohibited from engaging in focus-strategies, such as doodling or using fidget toys. Both of these are proven to help maintain a neurodivergent person’s focus and help them relax. Making sweeping generalization about if the student is listening or not is simply unfair to the student, as this doubts their ability.

4.    Class Structure: Many classes are just based upon listening to the teacher/professor, with little stress placed on applying the learned material within the classroom. Therefore, lessons should be much more dynamic, whether that be through inclusive, smaller-group discussions, or via hands-on activities. Just reading notes off of slides doesn’t cut it for most students anyways, so a more dynamic model of teaching is absolutely necessary! Teachers should also assign course-long classroom groups in larger classroom environments, which helps neurodivergent students initiate connects with their peers, and be able to seek help out easier, especially if these groups have TA leaders, which help coordinate the groups. 

5. Overall, the standardized learning environment that’s currently in place in most schools and universities totally excludes the needs of neurodivergent learners, and the need to be changed in order to benefit both disabled students and the student body as a whole.

Spring, E. (2022, March 17). The problems with the classroom environment.

Retrieved from

https://sites.psu.edu/emmaspring/2022/03/17/the-problems-with-the-classroom environment/.