Secondary – October 17

“A small man can be just as exhausted as a great man.” -Arthur Miller, born on this date in 1915, in Death of a Salesman. Describe two examples you’ve seen or experienced in your life that demonstrates this truth.

Secondary – October 16

“Obsessed by a fairy tale, we spend our lives searching for a magic door and a lost kingdom of peace.” -Eugene O’Neill, born on this date in 1888. Describe the lesson of life you think you are most likely to learn is not true after you graduate.

Secondary – October 15

“That which does not kill us makes us stronger.” -Friedrich Nietzsche, born on this date in 1844. Describe an experience in your own life that proves Nietzsche’s assertion.

Secondary – October 14

“A people that values its privileges above its principles soon loses both.” -US President Dwight D. Eisenhower, born on this date in 1890. Explain why Ike is wrong or right.

Secondary – October 13

“How dare anyone, parent, schoolteacher, or merely literary critic, tell me not to act colored.” -Arna Bontemps, born on this date in 1902. Explain whether it’s appropriate to do something for someone’s own good even if it’s against their will.

Secondary – October 12

On this date in 1945, Army medic Desmond Doss was presented the Medal of Honor, America’s highest military citation, for outstanding bravery even though he refused to fight as a conscientious objector in the war. Explain whether someone who doesn’t fight deserves the same recognition for bravery as someone who does.

Secondary – October 11

Elmore Leonard, born on this date in 1925,  wrote five novels and 30 short stories while working as an advertising copywriter by sitting at his desk and writing on a notebook hidden inside a drawer. Write what you’d prefer to be writing in your least favorite class.

Secondary – October 10

Porgy and Bess premiered as an opera on Broadway on this date in 1935. One of its most famous and covered songs is “It Ain’t Necessarily So.” Choose something you’ve learned this year and explain why you think it ain’t necessarily so.