Secondary – October 5

On this date in 1877, Hin-mah-too-yah-lat-kekt, or Thunder Rolling Down the Mountain — better known to history as Chief Joseph of the Nez Percé tribe — surrendered to the United States Cavalry. Write a brief story describing how you would respond if you were forcibly separated from your home and family.

Primary – October 5

“We spend more time congratulating people who have succeeded than encouraging people who have not.” -Neil deGrasse Tyson, born on this date in 1958. Explain why you think one is more important than the other.

Secondary – October 4

Work began on Mount Rushmore on this date in 1927. Make the case for the leader you think deserves to be so honored.

Primary – October 4

Work on Mount Rushmore began on this date in 1927. Explain the characteristics of a public leader who you think deserves to be honored in this way.

Secondary – October 3

“Whenever a friend succeeds, a little something in me dies.” -Gore Vidal, born this date in 1925. Write about a time you envied a friend’s success so much that it caused you to make some kind of mistake.

Primary – October 3

Stephen Crane’s The Red Badge of Courage was published on this date in 1895. Write about a time you were ashamed by your behavior and what you did — or would like to do — to make up for it.

Secondary – October 2

“When we are not sure, we are alive.” -Graham Greene, born on this date in 1904. Explain something you believe but cannot be sure about.

Primary – October 2

“There is nothing in the dark that isn’t there when the lights are on.” -Rod Serling, creator of The Twilight Zone, which premiered on this date in 1959. Write a story about something that is in the dark after you turn out the lights.