Secondary – September 11

Erastus Beadle, who with his brother Irwin launched Beadle’s Dime Novels and delivered affordable mass publications for American readers, was born on this date in 1821. Write two paragraphs: One that argues reading pulp fiction is bad for people, and another that argues any kind of reading is good for people.

Primary – September 11

Describe how you would feel if your best friend never came to school again.

Secondary – September 10

“The more important the subject and the closer it cuts to the bone of our hopes and needs, the more we are likely to err in establishing a framework for analysis.” -Stephen Jay Gould, born on this date in 1941. Write a short essay about something you believe strongly and why you should doubt it more than you do.

Primary – September 10

“The most erroneous stories are those we think we know best — and therefore never scrutinize or question.” -Stephen Jay Gould, born on this date in 1941. Write 10 questions you should ask about whether your favorite story is true.

Secondary – September 9

“Everyone thinks of changing the world, but no one thinks of changing himself.” -Leo Tolstoy, born on this date in 1828. Describe a change you could make in yourself that would make a change in the world.

Primary – September 9

On this date in 1956, Elvis Presley appeared on a national TV show for the first time. How would you explain to an adult who doesn’t like your music choices why you like them?

Secondary – September 8

On this date in 1974, US President Gerald R. Ford granted President Richard M. Nixon a full pardon for offenses Nixon might have committed while in office. When it comes to crimes of pure politics, explain why you think it’s better to prosecute and punish for forgive and move on.

Primary – September 8

Explain why you agree or disagree with the idea that honesty is the best policy.