U. S. Government: Democracy In Action

"The World Bank"

Introduction
In this chapter you have learned about the various economic systems used in the world today&51;capitalism, socialism, communism, and mixed systems&51;as well as the economic problems that challenge the many developing nations of our world. In this activity you will take a closer look at an agency that seeks to encourage growth and development in these emerging economies&51;the World Bank.

Destination Title: The World Bank Group

Note: Clicking on the link above will launch a new browser window.
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Directions
Start at the World Bank Web site.

• In the blue column on the top of the screen, click on About
• Click on and explore the topics under "What is the World Bank." Click on Data at the top of the screen. Then click on Data by Country on the left. Under the heading "Country at a Glance Tables," choose a country from the drop down menu and then examine that country's data.
• Read the information presented, taking notes as you go.

After you have read through the information, answer the following questions.

1			What is the mission of the World Bank Group?
2			How many members are there in the World Bank Group? What does membership in this organization involve?
3			What are the main criteria that guide the World Bank when it selects a country it will assist?
4			For the country you chose, list the following data: population, GNI per capita, population growth rate, life expectancy, infant mortality, poverty rate, illiteracy rate, and last year's GDP. What role do you think this member country plays in the World Bank Group?
5			On a separate sheet of paper, create a chart comparing the standards of living and economies in three developing countries. Using the "Country at a Glance Tables," choose 3 developing nations to study—one from Africa, one from Asia, and one from Latin America. Using the same data categories listed in question 4, create a chart comparing the countries you chose. At the bottom of your chart, list the steps you would take to improve conditions in the countries you selected.