Secondary – May 1

On this date in 1960, the Soviet Union shot down an American U-2 surveillance plane and captured its pilot. Explain your opinion about whether spying on other countries is a legitimate or illegitimate use of a nation’s sovereign power.

Primary – May 1

Construction of the world’s first skyscraper began on this date in 1884. The Home Insurance Company building in Chicago would be 10 stories tall — about 100 feet. Today’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, is more than 160 stories tall — about 2,723 feet. Explain why you think it’s a good or a bad idea for people to keep building taller skyscrapers.

Secondary – April 30

On this date in 1939, Franklin Delano Roosevelt became the first US president to appear on TV during opening day at the New York World’s Fair. Explain why you think politicians perform their public services worse or better because of television.

Primary – April 30

On this date in 1789, George Washington took the oath of office to become the first president of the United States. In a letter to his niece, he wrote, “It is better to offer no excuse than a bad one.” What does this idea mean to you?

Secondary – April 29

“News is something somebody doesn’t want printed; all else is advertising.” -William Randolph Hearst, born on this date in 1863. Explain why you think the news media should maintain it is unbiased and objective or should advocate an ideological perspective.

Primary – April 29

Describe your favorite sound.

Secondary – April 28

“You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view … until you climb inside of his skin and walk around in it.” -Harper Lee, born on this date in 1926. Consider the person in your life who is most different than you, and describe yourself from that person’s point of view.

Primary – April 28

On this date in 1930, the first night game in organized baseball history was played in Independence, Kansas. Describe how your life would be different if you couldn’t do things after dark.