Secondary – November 14

On this date in 1889, newspaper reporter Nellie Bly launched her own attempt to break Phileas Fogg’s fictional record of voyaging around the world in 80 days, described by Jules Verne. She succeeded, making the trip in 72 days, 6 hours, 11 minutes, and 14 seconds. If you had been trying to break her record in 1890, how would you have planned your travel?

Primary – November 14

Astrid Lindgren, the author of the Pippi Longstocking books, was born in Sweden on this date in 1907. Pippi is the strongest girl in the world. If you were that strong, how would you use your strength?    

Secondary – November 13

“If I am given a formula, and I am ignorant of its meaning, it cannot teach me anything, but if I already know it what does the formula teach me?” -Augustine of Hippo, born this date in 354. Explain whether Augustine’s statement applies to subjects other than math and science.

Primary – November 13

Robert Louis Stevenson, who wrote Treasure Island, was born on this date in 1850. Explain whether X ever really marks the spot.

Secondary – November 12

On this date in 1892, the first professional football game took place between the Allegheny Athletic Association and the Pittsburgh Athletic Club. Explain your opinion about the role of professional sports in our culture.

Primary – November 12

One of America’s earliest activists for equality between men and women, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, was born on this date in 1815. Explain why you think people used to believe that boys and girls couldn’t do the same thing.

Secondary – November 11

On the 11th hour of the 11th day of this 11th month in the year 1918, an armistice treaty ended the war to end all wars. Explain why countries and people kept fighting after that.

Primary – November 11

On this date in 1921, US President Warren G. Harding dedicated the Tomb of the Unknowns at Arlington National Cemetery. Explain why it’s important to remember people you might not know.