Packed with readings on current and often controversial topics from across the disciplines, Ackley's PERSPECTIVES ON CONTEMPORARY ISSUES, 9th Edition, encourages critical thinking and academic writing by presenting a variety of perspectives on current issues across disciplines. Contemporary issues engage students, while the thematically grouped readings provide thought-provoking material for in-class discussion and writing topics. In Part I, students are guided through critical reading, the writing process, summary writing, critique, argumentation, synthesis requiring documentation and research paper writing. Part II presents a rich selection of captivating readings organized by broad-based curricular areas. Thought-provoking questions foster personal engagement with the material, while "Responding to Visuals" sections prompt students to analyze accompanying images.