Secondary – March 20

Harriet Beecher Stowe’s novel Uncle Tom’s Cabin was published for the first time on this date in 1852. President Lincoln famously referred to her as the author of the Civil War because of the impact her book had on society. If you could write a story that would have a similar effect, what story would you choose to tell?

Primary – March 20

The Roman poet known as Ovid was born on this date in 43 BC. He believed, “A new idea is delicate. It can be killed by a sneer or a yawn; it can be stabbed to death by a quip and worried to death by a frown on the right man’s brow.” Think about a time someone you respect didn’t like a new idea of yours, and write about what happened and how it made you feel.

Secondary – March 19

William Jennings Bryan was born on this date in 1860. Explain why you are suspicious or admiring of people with extraordinary skills of verbal persuasion.

Primary – March 19

Famous Scottish explorer of Africa David Livingstone was born on this date in 1813. He once said, “I am prepared to go anywhere, provided it be forward.” What does this comment mean to you?

Secondary – March 18

Neville Chamberlain, a British prime minister now most remembered for declaring “peace for our time” shortly before the start of World War II, was born on this date in 1869. Describe a time when someone told you a lie that person believed was the truth, and explain whether that person’s belief makes a difference in the impact of the lie.

Primary – March 18

“It is better to be defeated standing for a high principle than to run by committing subterfuge.” -Grover Cleveland, 22nd and 24th president of the United States, who was born on this date in 1837. Explain whether you agree or disagree that it’s more important to win by declaring your beliefs than by hiding them.

Secondary – St. Patrick’s Day

On this date in 1992, the minority white citizens of South African voted to end their rule over the black majority. Explain your opinion about whether a population can be represented by leaders who are demographically different.

Primary – St. Patrick’s Day

Describe the nicest thing someone has ever done for you.