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.

Secondary – March 30

“To do good work, one must eat well, be well housed, have one’s fling from time to time, smoke one’s pipe, and drink one’s coffee in peace.” -Vincent van Gogh, born this date in 1853. Describe what you need to do good work.

Primary – March 30

Black Beauty author Anna Sewell was born on this date in 1820. Write a short story from the point of view of your favorite animal.

Secondary – March 29

John Tyler, tenth president of the United States, was born on this date in 1790. He rejected the policies of all the different political groups that supported his election. What’s your opinion about the proper balance between loyalty to your friends and yourself?

Primary – March 29

On this date in 1974, farmers digging a well near Xi’an, China, discovered the soldier-and-horse funerary statues better known as the Terracotta Army. Write a story imagining what you find digging a hole near your school.