Secondary – October 12

On this date in 1945, Army medic Desmond Doss was presented the Medal of Honor, America’s highest military citation, for outstanding bravery even though he refused to fight as a conscientious objector in the war. Explain whether someone who doesn’t fight deserves the same recognition for bravery as someone who does.

Primary – October 12

Christopher Columbus reached what everyone spent a long time calling “the New World” on this date in 1492. If you were to be the first explorer to reach a previously unknown world, what would you do when you got there and why?

Secondary – October 11

Elmore Leonard, born on this date in 1925,  wrote five novels and 30 short stories while working as an advertising copywriter by sitting at his desk and writing on a notebook hidden inside a drawer. Write what you’d prefer to be writing in your least favorite class.

Primary – October 11

On this date in 1950, the Federal Communications Commission issued the first license to broadcast television in color. How do you think watching television only in black-and-white images would change the experience?

Secondary – October 10

Porgy and Bess premiered as an opera on Broadway on this date in 1935. One of its most famous and covered songs is “It Ain’t Necessarily So.” Choose something you’ve learned this year and explain why you think it ain’t necessarily so.

Primary – October 10

Think about the most important rule to live by in your life. Now explain a situation in which it would be OK for you to break that rule.

Secondary – October 9

“Imagine no possessions.” -John Lennon, born on this date in 1940. Describe a world in which no one owns anything.

Primary – October 9

On this date in 1888, the Washington Monument opened to the public. Describe the monument you would build to recognize your favorite leader.