In the article "More schools to teach abstinence-Plus", as seen on page A21A of the September 16, 2011 issue, author Morgan Smith tells her readers about the new programs introduced in the West Texas informs teenagers not only about abstinence, but also how to practice safe sex. The article explains how teen pregnancy rates in West Texas continue to rise despite efforts to push abstinence among teens. It details a new sex education program in which teens are encouraged to choose abstinence but are also educated on effective contraception. It covers schools in Midland, Texas and how the effort to change policy is embraced by most community members as an active approach to reducing teen pregnancy. (Smith 1) The sociological imagination is an awareness of the relationship between an individual and the larger society, both today and in the past. (Schaefer 5) In other words we must look at social issues both directly and indirectly without bias to fully see and understand each point of view. Macrosociology is a sociological investigation that focuses on large-scale phenomena or entire civilizations. (Schaefer 12) A point of view that focuses on broad social structures and looks at society as a whole fundamentally focuses on the big picture. Microsociology is sociological inquiry that emphasizes the study of small groups, often through experimental means. (Schaefer 12) A point of view that examines social interaction in specific situations fundamentally focuses on the central point of the image. When examining the article through broader lenses, the sociological imagination is used to look at the written piece in different ways. Even though teaching kids about sex and contraceptives is one thing... middle of paper... I want something that works." (Smith 1) This program emphasizes abstinence first, but offers additional options to teens thinking about doing or already have sex. As my high school sex ed teacher said, "no one wants their kids to drive before they're ready, but when they do we want them to wear seat belts!" Works Cited Hughes, Michael, Carolyn J. Kroehler and James W. Vander Zanden. "Sociology | Chapter Summary." McGraw-Hill Higher Education, 2002. Web. October 25, 2011. .Schaefer, Richard T. "Understanding Sociology." Sociology: A Brief Introduction. 9th ed. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2011. Print .Smith, Morgan. “More Schools Choose to Teach Abstinence Plus.” The New York Times September 16, 2011, National Edition: A21A. The New York Times. 2011.