Secondary – September 4

Richard Wright was born on this date in 1908. Explain why you think an author should or should not censor his or her own stories if they reinforce a negative stereotype about that writer’s demographic group.

Secondary – September 3

The new USA and Great Britain signed the Treaty of Paris on this date in 1783, officially ending the American Revolutionary War. Describe what you most look forward to when you think about your independence.

Secondary – September 2

The Great Fire of London began in Thomas Farriner ‘s bakery on Pudding Lane on this date in 1666. It burned more than 13,000 houses and 85 churches before it ended four days later. Describe the one item you’d take from your house if it were threatened by fire.

Secondary – September 1

“The threat or fear of violence should not become an excuse or justification for restricting freedom of speech.” -Alan Dershowitz, born on this date in 1938. Think of an example that proves Dershowitz is wrong and use it to argue that he is right.

Secondary – August 31

On this date in 1897, Thomas Edison was awarded a patent for the Kinetograph, which we more commonly refer to as a movie camera. Thinking about the difference between acting on stage and acting in front of a camera, describe the biggest difference you can think of between the stories people could tell before and after recorded video became possible.

Secondary – August 30

John Gunther, author of Death Be Not Proud, was born on this date in 1901. If you knew you had only a few months left to live, what would you try to accomplish first?

Secondary – August 29

“No man’s knowledge here can go beyond his experience.” -English philosopher John Locke, born on this date in 1632. Explain why you agree or disagree with Locke’s statement.

Secondary – August 28

“The love of truth lies at the root of much humor.” -Canadian author and man of letters Robertson Davies, born this date in 1913. Describe what makes you laugh and why.