1. CHEAP DRONES ARE CHANGING MODERN WAR

Iran has been using relatively cheap drones to challenge the United States in a costly new kind of warfare. One commonly used drone can cost around $35,000 to build, but the missiles and systems used to shoot it down can cost hundreds of thousands—or even millions—of dollars. This creates a major imbalance, where defending against attacks becomes far more expensive than launching them. The U.S. has used a mix of strategies, including fighter jets, missile systems, and rapid-fire guns, but many of these were designed for more advanced threats, not large numbers of low-cost drones. Experts worry not only about the high cost, but also about running out of defensive weapons faster than they can be replaced. The situation highlights how new technology can quickly change military strategy and expose weaknesses in older systems. Write a short analytical response explaining the idea of a “cost imbalance” in warfare. Use at least two specific examples from the story and then explain, in 3–4 sentences, how this imbalance could influence future military planning or technology development.

2. YE’S EUROPEAN CONCERTS FACE BACKLASH

A planned concert by Ye in Poland was canceled as European leaders and venues responded to his past antisemitic comments and controversial behavior. Officials in Poland said that, given the country’s history during the Holocaust, hosting the performance would not be appropriate. Other countries have also taken action, with the United Kingdom barring him from entry and events in France being reconsidered. Although Ye has issued apologies at times, he has also reversed those statements, which has made public trust more complicated. The situation shows how an artist’s public statements and actions can affect their career, especially when performing internationally in places with deep historical sensitivities. Consider how public figures are held accountable in different countries. Write a response explaining why Ye’s concerts might be treated differently in Europe than in the United States, using details from the story and at least one example related to history or culture.

3. A.I. GLASSES COULD CHANGE LIVE THEATER

In South Korea, theaters are using A.I.-powered glasses to translate dialogue in real time for audience members who do not speak Korean. The glasses connect to a smartphone app and display translated text directly on the lenses while actors perform onstage. This allows viewers to follow the story without looking away at subtitles or screens. Producers hope the technology will help Korean theater reach a global audience, similar to the worldwide success of K-pop and Korean films. While the glasses have some technical issues, many users say they improve the experience and would use them again. The technology could play an important role in breaking language barriers and expanding access to live performances. Write a short evaluation of this technology. In one paragraph, explain one major benefit and one major limitation of the A.I. glasses, and then conclude with whether you think this kind of tool could significantly change how people experience live performances.

4. CONFUSION OVER OBAMA ADS IN VIRGINIA VOTE

Barack Obama has appeared in campaign ads on both sides of a Virginia referendum about redrawing congressional districts, which has confused some voters. Democrats are urging people to vote “Yes” to create a new map that could give them more seats, while Republicans are using older clips of Obama criticizing gerrymandering to argue for a “No” vote. The conflicting messages have made it harder for some voters to understand what the referendum actually means and where political leaders stand. The issue is part of a larger national debate about gerrymandering, where political parties try to draw district boundaries in ways that benefit them. The outcome could affect control of the House of Representatives in future elections. Explain how messaging can influence voter understanding. Write a response describing how the use of the same public figure in different ways could shape opinions, and discuss one reason why this might make elections more confusing for voters.

5. A.I. POLITICAL AVATARS SPREAD ONLINE

Hundreds of A.I.-generated social media accounts have appeared online, posing as real people while sharing pro-Trump messages. These accounts use realistic-looking avatars and post frequently about political topics, sometimes gaining thousands of followers and views. Researchers say the goal may be to create the appearance of widespread support, even if the accounts are not real individuals. It is often difficult to tell who created these accounts or why, and some platforms have started removing them for spam or deceptive behavior. The rise of these avatars shows how artificial intelligence is changing the way information—and misinformation—can spread online, especially during election seasons. Design a short media literacy guide for students. In 4–5 sentences, explain how someone could identify whether an account might be A.I.-generated, and why it is important to question what they see online, especially during elections.