President Trump has tried to block several offshore wind farms, including projects already approved off the East Coast. This surprised many people, since even oil and gas executives — who usually avoid criticizing Trump — have raised concerns. Some worry that if one administration can stop wind projects after they’ve been approved, future administrations could do the same to oil and gas projects. A federal judge recently allowed one wind farm in Rhode Island to restart, and another project in New York was able to continue after negotiations with the state’s governor. Business leaders say constant policy changes create uncertainty, raise costs, and make it harder to plan long-term energy projects. Trump has made strong claims against wind turbines, while trade groups warn that blocking approved projects could hurt both renewable and traditional energy industries. Make a chart with two columns. In the first column, list reasons why some people support offshore wind farms. In the second column, list reasons why others, like President Trump, oppose them. Then, write a paragraph about which side you agree with most and why.

Scientists were worried earlier this year when the Trump administration announced new research funding for autism. They feared that only studies supporting false claims — like the long-debunked idea that vaccines cause autism — would get money. Instead, the National Institutes of Health awarded $50 million to 13 projects led by respected experts. These studies will look at how genetics and environmental factors work together to affect autism risk, using large sets of health data. Many scientists said they were relieved that the chosen projects followed solid, evidence-based science. Still, some researchers remain cautious because the administration continues to promote unproven theories about vaccines and autism through other programs. Write a short paragraph explaining one false claim about autism mentioned in the article (like vaccines causing autism) and then explain what credible research says instead. End your paragraph with a sentence about why it matters to fund studies based on evidence.

President Trump announced that he has ordered U.S. troops to Portland, Oregon, to guard Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) buildings during ongoing protests. He said the troops could use “full force” if needed, though it was not clear what that meant. Local officials, including Oregon’s governor and Portland’s mayor, strongly objected, saying the city did not need federal troops and was handling things on its own. Protesters have gathered outside an ICE detention center for months, usually in small groups, but sometimes clashing with federal agents late at night. The situation has led to a debate over presidential power, local control, and whether sending in the military is necessary or makes tensions worse. Answer this question in a paragraph: Should the president have the power to send troops into a city without the state’s approval? Give at least two reasons for your answer, and explain what risks or benefits could come from this kind of decision.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has suddenly ordered hundreds of the U.S. military’s top generals and admirals to gather next week at a Marine base in Virginia. The Pentagon gave no reason for the meeting, which is unusual since leaders of this rank are usually spread out across the world. President Trump seemed surprised when asked about the meeting, saying he didn’t know why it was “a big deal.” Recently, Hegseth has made other unexpected moves, such as firing high-ranking officers and ordering large cuts in the number of generals. These actions have raised questions about what direction he wants to take the military and why he is making so many changes without explanation. Imagine you are a journalist covering this story for a school newspaper. Write a short article (5–6 sentences) explaining what happened, why people think the meeting is unusual, and what questions remain unanswered.

Americans eat and drink a lot of dairy products, from cheese and yogurt to butter and milk, but nutrition experts say there are still many myths about how healthy dairy really is. For example, while milk is often advertised as essential for strong bones, research shows you can get calcium and protein from other foods like leafy greens, fish, or fortified products. Another common belief is that low-fat dairy is always the healthiest, but recent studies show that whole milk may also have benefits, depending on your needs and lifestyle. Plant-based milks, like almond or oat milk, can be good options, but they don’t always contain the same protein, vitamins, or minerals as cow’s milk. People who are lactose intolerant don’t always need to give up dairy completely, since foods like yogurt, hard cheeses, or lactose-free milk can often be eaten without problems. Finally, raw milk may sound “natural,” but experts warn it can carry dangerous bacteria, making pasteurized milk the much safer choice. Choose two of the dairy myths you read about. Write a short paragraph for each one that first explains the myth, then explains the truth behind it. End each paragraph with one sentence about why knowing the truth matters for people’s health.