Greenland and America
Greenland
& America
Lesduur is: 30 minIntroductie
Onderdelen in deze les
Greenland
& America
Deze slide heeft geen instructies
At the end of
this lesson you can . . .
Explain the situation involving Greenland, the United States, and Denmark
Clarify why Greenland is so important in world politics
Identify the key countries and leaders involved
Learning Objectives Page
Yes
No
A little
Do you know about this news story?
A simple poll starter
What do you already know about
Greenland & America?
Word cloud to gauge current knowledge in the group.
How do you feel about this situation?
An emoji poll - current events can be overwhelming and stressful.
Newsround video link - could be easily replaced with one that suits your learners' age and knowledge.
What's happening?
What?
The President of the United States has said that he would like Greenland to be part of the US.
Where?
It concerns Greenland, a large island and autonomous* region that is currently part of Denmark.
When?
On Saturday
10 January, Trump shared this news in a press conference
at the White House.
Information slide.
Background
The US has had a presence in Greenland for a long time
There is an American
military baseStrategic location: from Greenland, the US can track missiles
Melting ice makes resources more accessible
China and Russia also want more influence for this reason
Further information slide
Why do
you think this is important news?
Why do you think this is important news word cloud.
What does this mean for…
The UK?
Tensions in NATO.
The United Kingdom collaborates with other countries
to prevent conflicts.
You?
Resources from Greenland are in phones, laptops, and tablets.
Daily life?
Greenland is situated
on important shipping routes
and influences
trade and goods.
This sets up the next slide.
What could be a consequence?
Open question
Further Developments
The US announced a 10% tariff on exports from eight European countries in January 2026.
The countries affected include Denmark, the UK, and others.
The tariff could rise to 25% by June unless a deal for Greenland's purchase is made.
The US President hinted at using force to acquire Greenland if needed.
Further information slide
The 'Davos* Climbdown'
No Military Action: President Trump said he will not use force to take over Greenland.
Tariffs Cancelled: Planned tariffs for February were cancelled after a meeting with NATO's leader.
Framework Deal: A future deal is planned for Greenland and the Arctic, focusing on security.
Security and Sovereignty: The deal may include a defence system in Greenland and some U.S. control over small areas.
Updated to include details from World Economic Forum
Why do you think Trump backed down?
Open question - draw on information from ealrier in the lesson.
Key Concepts
Greenland
Large island, part of Denmark, important due to its location and resources.
Autonomy
The residents are allowed to make many decisions themselves.
Raw Materials
A raw material is a material used to make something.
Strategic Location
Key area for security, shipping route, and/or power.
Deze slide heeft geen instructies
Any questions?
Deze slide heeft geen instructies
You could swap out these links for ones that may suit your learners better.
News Focus lessons - short lessons on current events
Deze slide heeft geen instructies