Secondary – February 19

On this date in 1942, the US government began moving Japanese-Americans living on or near the Pacific coast to internment camps. They remained interned until the war ended and they were allowed to return to their homes in January 1945. Write one paragraph arguing this was a logical national defense position during World War II, and one paragraph disputing that position.

Primary – February 19

“To know that we know what we know, and to know that we do not know what we do not know, that is true knowledge.” -Nicolaus Copernicus, the first person to suggest using scientific observation that the Earth was not the center of the solar system and the universe, and who was born on this date in 1473. Explain why it’s important to know what you don’t know.

Secondary – February 18

On this date in 1884, Mark Twain’s Adventures of Huckleberry Finn was first published. Defend your position on whether it is right or wrong to help someone who is breaking an unjust law.

Primary – February 18

Describe what you would do if you could learn to play any musical instrument.

Primary – February 15

Polar explorer Ernest Shackleton was born on this date in 1874. He believed, “Difficulties are just things to overcome, after all.” What do you think he meant when he said that?

Secondary – February 15

Italian astronomer and physicist Galileo Galilei, born on this date in 1564, once wrote, “I have never met a man so ignorant that I couldn’t learn something from him.” Explain what you think Galileo meant and defend your disagreement or agreement.