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Tell students that some critics argue that before 2000, NATO’s military alliance had a record of inaction. However, since September 11, 2001, because of a new threat — terrorism — NATO has experienced a transformation. Ask students how such a threat might cause the alliance to expand and adopt a new spirit of cooperation. How would this renewal be positive? What problems might arise?

Direct students to the topic One For All: The North Atlantic Treaty Organization on the CBC Radio and Television Archives Web site. Have them view Clips # 9, 10, and 11, including the Story and Did You Know? sections. As they view, students should use the download sheet Strength or Irrelevance? and answer the questions about the recent expansion of NATO.

When they are done, write the following conflicting statements about NATO’s changed role and size since September 11, 2001 on two separate sheets of chart paper:

“ Its original purpose — a united front against a Soviet invasion — has long since vanished, and even as NATO has grown, the reasons for its continuing existence have become more obscure.”

“The most successful alliance in world history has extended to corners of Europe unimaginable just a few years ago. The military capacity gained for the North Atlantic Treaty Organization from expansion is minimal, but the political returns will be fantastic.”

Ask students for their research findings and have them decide which statement (if either) their answers support. Record the answers on the chart paper.

Have students write an essay defending the statement that best describes their personal position on NATO’s recent role and expansion.

Invite students to find a partner who defended the other statement. Have them discuss their viewpoints and support their opinions in pairs. What is effective about their partner’s work? Are there elements that they agree with in the other’s essay?

Provide students with two outline maps of the world. Have students label both maps, showing on one the NATO member countries in 1949, and on the other, current member countries of NATO.