Secondary – December 14

Michel de Nostredame, better known as Nostradamus, was born in France on this date in 1503. Explain why you agree or disagree with the idea that it is possible to predict the future with substantial accuracy.

Secondary – December 13

Sir Francis Drake launched on a three-year journey around the world on this date in 1577. Describe what you imagine your life would be like if you were to be away from, and unable to communicate with, your family and friends for three years.

Secondary – December 12

The first Chief Justice of the US Supreme Court, John Jay, was born on this date in 1745. He was also co-author of the Federalist Papers. He wrote in Georgia v. Brailsford (1794), “The jury has the right to judge both the law as well as the fact in controversy.” What does this idea mean to you, and do you agree or disagree?

Secondary – December 11

On this date in 1972, Apollo 17 landed on the moon. It was the sixth and last manned mission to the moon. Describe what happens to a place you visit but never return to.

Secondary – December 10

William Faulkner accepted the Nobel Prize in Literature on this date in 1950, telling the audience, “I believe that man will not merely endure: he will prevail.” More than six decades later, explain whether he was correct.

Secondary – December 9

“They also serve who only stand and wait.” -John Milton, born on this date in 1608. True or false?

Secondary – December 8

John Lennon was killed on this date in 1980 at age 40. With The Beatles, he had literally revolutionized popular music around the world. Describe something significant you would like to accomplish by the time you’re 40 years old.

Secondary – December 7

Willa Cather was born on this date in 1873. She wrote, “Isn’t it queer: there are only two or three human stories, and they go on repeating themselves as fiercely as if they had never happened before; like the larks in this country, that have been singing the same five notes over for thousands of years.” Why do you agree or disagree with her statement?