We were to begin a new unit (Chapter 29) focusing on expansion and imperialism today but returned from an emergency drill practice, one of which required that we walk to Juno Park, so in the few minutes left of class, Ben shared his thoughts and opinions about school safety practices and gun control. We then watched a video about China's economic growth, entitled, "China's New Industrial Plan." It explained China's progress in technology and manufacturing and noted that it has now become the world's largest manufacturer and exporter. Ben was very interested in this information and interjected several comments about the change in their economic system over the years and what it might suggest for the future.