1. FROM “DEFENSE” TO “WAR”

President Trump has signed an executive order to rename the U.S. Department of Defense to the “Department of War.” The move is mostly symbolic because only Congress can officially change department names, but it reflects a shift in tone and message from defense to aggression. Trump said the new name better represents U.S. strength and military capability and is meant to send a message of victory. Critics argue the rebranding contradicts his efforts to appear as a peace-seeking leader — especially since he’s also seeking a Nobel Peace Prize. Some lawmakers support the move, saying it aligns with military tradition and national security goals. Others worry it shows a more aggressive, offensive military stance and could damage the U.S.’s global reputation. The decision has sparked debate about the message the U.S. wants to send to its allies, enemies, and citizens, especially as Trump balances talk of peace with threats of military force. Read the article and consider the symbolism of changing the name from “Defense” to “War.” Then, write a short opinion piece answering this question: Do you think the name of a government agency—like the Department of Defense—affects how people view its mission and actions? Support your answer with evidence from the article and at least one historical or modern example. Think about how names, titles, and language can shape public opinion, especially when it comes to military and foreign policy.

2. HYUNDAI PLANT RAIDED

In early September 2025, U.S. immigration officials conducted the largest workplace immigration raid in Homeland Security history, arresting 475 workers—most of them South Korean—at a Hyundai electric vehicle battery plant under construction in Ellabell, Georgia. The raid was part of President Trump’s ongoing immigration crackdown and drew sharp criticism from immigrant rights groups and South Korean officials. Many of the workers were subcontractors, and while some may have been working without proper documentation, others were caught up in the sweep despite having legal permission to be in the U.S., such as through business travel visas. The raid disrupted construction at one of Georgia’s largest economic projects and raised diplomatic concerns, especially since South Korea recently pledged billions in U.S. investments. Critics argue that the American visa system hasn’t kept pace with demand from international companies trying to staff their U.S.-based factories. South Korean officials and business leaders worry the raid could harm international partnerships and damage trust between the two countries. Meanwhile, immigrant advocates say the raid has left Georgia’s Korean community shaken and confused about legal rights and resources. Write a short opinion essay in response to this question: “How should the U.S. balance immigration enforcement with its goals of economic growth and international cooperation? In your response, explain why the raid at the Hyundai battery plant has caused controversy, and use at least one example from the article to support your view. Consider how immigration policy can affect not only individuals, but also relationships between countries and businesses.

3. HEALTH SECRETARY HEARINGS

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. faced tough questions during a heated Senate hearing about his leadership of the Department of Health and Human Services. Senators from both parties criticized Kennedy for limiting access to vaccines, firing scientific advisers, and spreading misinformation about vaccine safety. Kennedy defended his actions, arguing that vaccines should be more carefully studied, but many lawmakers pushed back, accusing him of promoting conspiracy theories and undermining public health. One of the most controversial points was Kennedy’s decision to fire all 17 advisers on the CDC’s vaccine recommendation panel and replace them with vaccine skeptics. Some senators feared this could lead to weakened recommendations for childhood immunizations. Kennedy also claimed mRNA vaccines were dangerous, despite strong scientific evidence that they are safe and have saved millions of lives. Tensions were high throughout the three-hour hearing, with Kennedy clashing with multiple senators and refusing to answer some direct questions. He also faced criticism for ongoing chaos at the CDC, including thousands of firings and a recent shooting at the agency’s headquarters. CDC staff have accused him of spreading the kind of misinformation that fuels violence and mistrust. Finally, the hearing touched on other health policy issues, such as rural hospital funding and the high cost of prescription drugs. While Kennedy promised to support bipartisan reforms, many senators questioned whether his actions matched his words. Write a short opinion piece (one paragraph) responding to the following question: Should personal beliefs about science influence public health policy? Use specific examples from the article about Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s decisions as health secretary, such as changes to vaccine advisory panels or access to COVID-19 vaccines. Consider how his actions have affected the CDC and public trust in science. Support your opinion with at least two facts from the article.

4. OPPOSITION TO OFFSHORE WIND ENERGY

President Trump’s administration is making a wide effort to stop offshore wind energy in the U.S. Agencies that don’t usually deal with energy—like Health and Human Services and Defense—are now investigating potential risks tied to offshore wind farms. Officials claim these risks could include electromagnetic fields affecting human health or radar problems that could endanger national security. Several wind energy projects, including ones off the coasts of Rhode Island, New York, and Maryland, have had their funding pulled or construction paused. Experts say these safety and security concerns are not backed by strong evidence. In fact, many of these wind farms were already approved by the Department of Defense and other federal agencies after detailed reviews. The administration argues these projects are not as reliable as coal, gas, or nuclear energy, and that stopping them supports national interests. Many governors and energy experts warn that canceling these clean energy projects could harm investor confidence and slow down progress on climate and energy goals. Critics say the White House is exaggerating risks to promote fossil fuels and weaken renewable energy industries. In class, discuss both sides of the offshore wind energy debate. Some people believe offshore wind farms are important for clean energy and climate goals, while others think they are expensive, unreliable, or risky to national security. After the discussion, write a one-page opinion essay explaining whether you think the U.S. government should support or stop offshore wind development. Use at least three pieces of evidence from the article to support your opinion.

5. TEACHERS CONCERNED OVER SMITHSONIAN REVIEW

President Trump’s administration is reviewing the Smithsonian Institution’s exhibits and educational materials to make sure they reflect what the White House calls “American ideals.” The goal is to remove what it describes as “divisive” or “partisan” narratives, and align content with patriotic themes. Many teachers across the country rely on Smithsonian resources in their classrooms, especially when textbooks are outdated or budgets are limited. Educators worry the review may lead to a more sanitized or one-sided version of American history, leaving out important topics like racism, discrimination, and civil rights. The Smithsonian has been a trusted source of primary documents and inclusive materials, so teachers fear students may lose access to accurate and diverse historical content. Some also say these changes could discourage students—especially those from underrepresented groups—from seeing themselves reflected in history or pursuing careers in museums or government. Write a short, persuasive article explaining whether you think the federal government should be allowed to change or limit what museums like the Smithsonian include in their exhibits and classroom materials. Use at least one example from the article to support your opinion. Then, explain how you think history should be taught—should it focus on celebrating America’s successes, examining its mistakes, or both? Why?