1. CLIMATE CHANGE AND THE INFORMATION WAR

At the United Nations climate summit in Brazil, many experts warned that false information about climate change is making it harder to protect the planet. Oil and gas companies and some governments, including the United States under President Trump, continue to question or downplay the scientific evidence that burning fossil fuels is warming Earth. Social media and online influencers spread misleading claims that confuse the public and weaken support for environmental action. Leaders at the summit discussed the problem and created a declaration calling for honesty and transparency about climate science, but only a small number of countries signed it. Critics say that fossil fuel lobbyists still have too much influence, which helped stop countries from agreeing to a strong plan to phase out fossil fuels. Create a short fact-check guide for students your age by writing one paragraph that explains what climate misinformation is, where it often comes from, and how people can tell the difference between reliable science and misleading claims. Use two examples from the story to show how misinformation spreads and describe one strategy students could use to avoid being fooled by false information online.

2. NEW YORK’S PERSONALIZED PRICING LAW

New York has passed a new law aimed at stopping businesses from secretly using artificial intelligence and personal data to charge customers higher prices online. This practice, called personalized or surveillance pricing, allows companies to raise prices based on a shopper’s past spending habits, location, or even online behavior. Under the law, companies must clearly warn customers by posting a message that says prices were set by an algorithm using personal data. Business groups say the law is confusing and unnecessary, while consumer advocates argue it does not go far enough to protect shoppers. Other states are now considering similar laws, making this a major issue in the future of A.I. regulation. Write a short scenario in 5 to 7 sentences showing two people shopping online for the same item and receiving different prices because of personalized pricing. Explain how each shopper feels when they discover the price difference and give your opinion on whether the New York law is enough to protect consumers or whether stronger rules are needed.

3. MINNESOTA’S SOCIAL SERVICES FRAUD

In Minnesota, federal prosecutors uncovered large fraud schemes that stole more than $1 billion from government programs meant to help children and families during the Covid pandemic. Individuals created fake businesses that claimed to provide meals, housing services, or therapy but never actually delivered them. Many of those charged are from the state’s Somali community, leading to fears that innocent people from the community are being unfairly blamed for the crimes of a small group. The scandal created political conflict, with critics accusing Governor Tim Walz of failing to stop the fraud sooner, while Walz said new safeguards and investigations are now in place. The case has raised important questions about how to prevent fraud without targeting entire communities. Imagine you are designing a public service announcement for Minnesota residents. In 4 to 6 sentences, explain what fraud is, what happened in this case, and how it hurts taxpayers and people who need help. Then describe one way governments can fight fraud while still treating immigrant communities fairly and respectfully.

4. TOURISM DECLINE HITS THE NAVAJO NATION

Monument Valley, a famous site on the Navajo Nation, depends heavily on tourism, especially from international travelers. After the pandemic, tourism briefly recovered, but this year visitor numbers dropped again, especially among Canadians and other foreign travelers. This has hurt Navajo tour guides who rely on tourism to earn a living, forcing some to lower prices or cut back tours. Local leaders say political tensions, lower travel from abroad, and reduced advertising have added to the decline. In response, the Navajo Nation has increased its tourism budget, is using new technology to study visitor trends, and plans to open hotels and expand Navajo-owned tourism businesses. Write a travel advice column entry of 5 to 7 sentences encouraging people to visit the Navajo Nation. Include what makes Monument Valley special, how tourism helps local families, and what visitors can learn about Navajo culture by using guided tours. End by explaining why choosing to travel responsibly matters to communities like this one.

5. SENATOR UNDER INVESTIGATION

The Pentagon has opened an investigation into Senator Mark Kelly after he appeared in a video reminding U.S. troops that they have the legal right to refuse illegal orders. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth labeled the video “seditious” and claimed it encouraged soldiers to disobey commanders, while legal experts said the message reflects established military law. President Trump intensified the controversy by calling for harsh punishment of the lawmakers involved, leading to a wave of death threats against them. Kelly argued that the investigation is meant to intimidate lawmakers who criticize the administration and that his comments are protected speech. Experts say recalling and punishing a retired officer for such statements would be highly unusual and unlikely to succeed. Write a short debate-style response of one full paragraph in which you take either Kelly’s side or the Pentagon’s side. Explain whether you think the video was an appropriate reminder of the law or a harmful act that could confuse troops. Support your opinion with at least two details from the story about the investigation or the reactions to the video.