Secondary – April 9

The US Civil War ended on this date in 1865 when Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee surrendered to Union Gen. Ulysses S. Grant. Describe your opinions about an issue you consider so important that you would go to war against your own family if they were on the other side of that issue.

Secondary – April 8

Buddhists celebrate this date as the birth of the sage Siddhārtha Gautama in 563 BC. The Buddha instructed, “It is better to travel well than to arrive.” True or false? Defend your answer with examples from your life.

Secondary – April 7

“I agree that there are things that should be kept secret.” -Daniel Ellsberg, the U.S. Defense Department analyst who leaked the Pentagon Papers, born on this date in 1931. Describe where you think the line is between what your government should keep secret and make public.

Secondary – April 6

On this date in 1917, the United States officially entered World War I, although the war was being fought between America’s allies and enemies on the other side of the Atlantic Ocean. Think about whether you agree or disagree that the US had a national interest in fighting a distant war, and then describe the arguments against your opinion.

Secondary – April 5

“Excellence is to do a common thing in an uncommon way.” -Booker T. Washington in 1856. Describe what you do with more excellence than anyone else, and how you do it.

Secondary – April 4

Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated on this date in 1968. Explain why you think his death acclerated or delayed progress towards his dream of racial equality.

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.

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.