Unit 5: Contract Law

CHAPTER 18: LANDLORD AND TENANT LAW

E-ACTIVITY: UNITED NATIONS HABITAT AGENDA (p. 548)

Activity: Prepare a Group Presentation on the United Nations Habitat Agenda

Should every human have adequate shelter? Is this a basic human right—a goal that governments and individuals worldwide should try to reach? In July 1996, heads of state and official delegations at a United Nations conference agreed to the Habitat Agenda, a global action plan for adequate shelter for all, part of the UN’s overall goal of reducing poverty and promoting sustainable development.

Research the UN Habitat Agenda to prepare a report about it.

1. Visit the Web site for the UN’s Human Settlements Programme to view the Habitat Agenda.
   • What is the overall purpose of the Agenda, stated in Chapter III—Commitments, paragraph 39?
   • Briefly, what are the 14 objectives outlined in Chapter III—Commitments, paragraph 40?
     
     
     
     
2. Visit the Web site of the UN’s Housing Rights Programme, which is designed to promote part of the Habitat Agenda—specifically “to promote, protect and ensure the full and progressive realization of the right to adequate housing.”
   • What are the five areas in which the programme is active?
   • What is one major area of study for this organization?
     
3. With classmates, form a group to do the following:
   1. Visit the Web site of the UN’s Human Settlements Programme to view the “In Focus” articles.
   2. Find on the Internet other articles that give examples of
      
      • the concerns that brought about the Habitat Agenda—e.g., an on-line news article about an illegal eviction of squatters
      • local efforts that support the objectives of the Habitat Agenda—e.g., a news release announcing an innovative housing scheme
        
   3. In a group presentation, present one or two examples to the class and explain how they relate to the Habitat Agenda. Use the checklist below.

   Click here if you would like to download the checklist.
   

Presentation/Speech Checklist

• Have I presented information that reflects a solid knowledge of relevant facts and terms?
• Have I presented information that reflects a solid understanding of relevant concepts?
• Have I presented information that reflects a solid understanding about how concepts are related?
• Have I taken into account different points of view when presenting information?
• Have I formulated clear and appropriate responses to questions?
• Have I created an opening that is engaging and clearly introduces the topic?
• Have I presented information in a logical sequence?
• Have I formulated a clear and effective conclusion?
• Have I used visuals effectively?
• Have I chosen words and used a level of language that is appropriate to the purpose and audience?
• Have I used speech that is fluent, expressive, and audible?
• Have I used technology or other presentation aids in a way that enhances the presentation?