Secondary – April 3

“Great minds have purposes; others have wishes.” -Washington Irving, born on this date in 1783. Explain what you think is the difference between a purpose and a wish.

Primary – April 3

On this date in 1860, the Pony Express postal service started when riders left St. Joseph, Mo., and Sacramento, Calif., at the same time on 2,000-mile trips. The first trip west took 9 days and 23 hours, and trip east took 11 days and 12 hours. Today, when you can talk with people on the other side of the planet in real time, describe your favorite method of communication and why you prefer it.

Secondary – April 2

“If you ask me what I came into this life to do, I will tell you: I came to live out loud.” -Émile Zola, born this date in 1840. Explain what living out loud means to you.

Primary – April 2

Hans Christian Andersen was born on this date in 1805. His birthday is commemorated as International Children’s Book Day. Explain why your favorite story is so important to you.

Secondary – April 1

On this date in 1826, Samuel Morey was granted a patent for the internal combustion engine. About it, he wrote, “Is there not some reason to expect that the discovery will greatly change the commercial and personal intercourse of the country?” Describe the greatest change you think the internal combustion engine has caused in your country.

Primary – April 1

Explain why you prefer one of the following two choices: Doing something totally new and unknown, or doing something you’ve enjoyed doing before.

Secondary – March 31

Daylight saving time went into effect in the USA for the first time on this date in 1918. Defend your position on whether daylight saving time is a bad or good idea.

Primary – March 31

“The easiest thing to be in the world is you. The most difficult thing to be is what other people want you to be.” -Leo Buscaglia, born on this date in 1924. Describe the difference between what you are and what someone else wants you to be.