Secondary – June 2

On this date in 1924, Congress granted full U.S. citizenship to American Indians. Describe a motivation politicians might have used to oppose this change.

Primary – June 2

On this date in 1953, Queen Elizabeth II was crowned in London. Describe what you think are the differences between a royal leader like a queen or king and an elected leader like the president.

Secondary – June 1

On this date in 1980, a new, all-news cable TV channel called the Cable News Network began broadcasting. Describe how you get most of your news today, and whether you think that process is a good one or could be improved.

Primary – June 1

On this date in 1990, the South African government proposed a bill to eliminate apartheid, the law that prevented black and white citizens from using the same public services like buses and swimming pools. How would you explain to a visitor from another planet why this law was a bad idea?

Secondary – May 31

On this date in 1977, the BBC banned the playing of the Sex Pistols song God Save the Queen. Explain your opinion about whether banning a creative work is ever justifiable.

Primary – May 31

“Keep your face always toward the sunshine — and shadows will fall behind you.” -Walt Whitman, who was born on this date in 1819. Explain what you think is false or true about this statement other than its physical accuracy.

Secondary – May 30

“There is no sin but ignorance.” -Christopher Marlowe, who died in a bar fight at age 29 on this date in 1593. Explain what you think he meant when he wrote that line.

Primary – May 30

On this date in 1972, the US launched the unmanned scientific probe Mariner 9 to Mars, where it became the first spacecraft to orbit a planet other than the Earth. Describe what you would like a mission to Mars to look for and find.