Secondary – February 6

Eric Partridge, author of A Dictionary of Slang and Unconventional English, was born on this date in 1894. Think about a slang word that was popular when you were younger, or with your parents, that has fallen out of use. Explain why that happened — and what slang that’s currently popular you think will fade from use in 10 or 15 years.

Primary – February 6

Babe Ruth was born on this day in 1895. He hit more home runs than any player in major league history (until recently), but he also struck out more times than any player. What do those two records tell you about your life?

Secondary – February 5

“Your public servants serve you right.” -Adlai Stevenson, born on this date in 1900. Explain your understanding of Stevenson’s ambiguity.

Primary – February 5

“A free society is one where it is safe to be unpopular.” -Adlai Stevenson, who was born on this date in 1900. Describe the difference between being popular and unpopular and how the designation affects people.

Secondary – February 4

If given the opportunity to receive a single lesson from the leading expert in any field, living or dead, what would you choose to learn from whom?

Primary – February 4

Rosa Lee Parks, who became a civil rights icon for refusing to give up her bus seat to a white person, was born on this date in 1913. Describe the bravest stand you’ve ever taken.

Secondary – February 3

Horace Greeley, a crusading newspaper editor who advocated political reform and opposed slavery, and later lost a race for US President, was born this date in 1811. He is most remembered for this quote: “Go West, young man.” What does it mean to you?

Primary – February 3

The first woman to become a recognized doctor, Elizabeth Blackwell, was born on this date in 1821. She was admitted to medical school only because the men already at the school, when offered the chance to reject her, assumed her application was a hoax and jokingly played along. How do you think she felt when she showed up at school the first day?