Secondary – October 18

On this date in 1767, astronomer Charles Mason and surveyor Jeremiah Dixon completed a five-year process of plotting the line named for them that forms parts of the borders of Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. Explain why boundaries are so important to people.

Primary – October 18

On this date in 1851, Herman Melville published Moby-Dick. Think about something who is so important that you would travel around the world for years to get it. Then explain why it’s so important to you.

Secondary – October 17

“A small man can be just as exhausted as a great man.” -Arthur Miller, born on this date in 1915, in Death of a Salesman. Describe two examples you’ve seen or experienced in your life that demonstrates this truth.

Primary – October 17

“Let all the time you can get be spent in trying to learn to read.” -Jupiter Hammon, the first published African-American writer in the United States, who was born into slavery on this date in 1711. Describe the most important difference between someone who can’t read and someone who can.

Secondary – October 16

“Obsessed by a fairy tale, we spend our lives searching for a magic door and a lost kingdom of peace.” -Eugene O’Neill, born on this date in 1888. Describe the lesson of life you think you are most likely to learn is not true after you graduate.

Primary – October 16

Noah Webster, for whom the famous dictionary is named, was born on this date in 1758. Explain why you think it’s more important to be grammatically correct or to be understood when you’re writing something.

Secondary – October 15

“That which does not kill us makes us stronger.” -Friedrich Nietzsche, born on this date in 1844. Describe an experience in your own life that proves Nietzsche’s assertion.

Primary – October 15

“Love conquers all,” according to Virgil, who was born in Italy on this date in the year 70 BCE. Explain why you agree or disagree.