1. N.A.S.A.’S GIANT ROCKET

NASA is getting ready to send astronauts around the moon on a mission called Artemis II. A giant rocket called the Space Launch System was slowly moved from a big building to the launchpad in Florida. The rocket carries a spacecraft named Orion, which will take four astronauts on a 10-day trip around the moon and back to Earth. This will be the first time humans travel near the moon again since the Apollo missions. The astronauts will not land on the moon, but they will test important systems needed for future moon landings. Imagine you are one of the astronauts on Artemis II. Write a short journal entry about the day you finally get to see the moon up close from space. Describe what you see out the window, how you feel inside the spacecraft, and what you are most excited to tell people when you return to Earth. Write at least 4 sentences.

2. POKÉMON CARDS STOLEN IN NEW YORK CITY

Three robbers broke into a Pokémon card store in New York City and stole at least $110,000 worth of rare cards. One of the cards stolen was a first-edition Charizard worth about $15,000. The robbers smashed display cases, took money from the register, and frightened customers by pointing a gun at them. No one was hurt, but the store was damaged and many valuable cards were taken. Pokémon cards have become very popular and expensive, which has led to more thefts at card shops across the country. Pretend you own a small shop that sells something valuable and collectible, like trading cards, toys, or comics. Make a safety plan for your store. Write 3–5 sentences explaining how you would protect your store, your customers, and your products from theft.

3. A NEW LAW TO PROTECT THE WORLD’S OCEANS

A new international law called the High Seas Treaty is now in effect to help protect ocean life in waters that do not belong to any country. These international waters cover nearly half of the Earth and are home to many important sea animals and plants. The treaty allows countries to create protected ocean zones where fishing and other activities may be limited. Scientists hope this will help protect coral reefs, fish, and other marine life. The goal is to keep the oceans healthy for future generations. Design your own ocean protection zone. Draw a picture of your ocean area and label at least three animals or plants that live there. Then write a paragraph explaining why your zone should be protected and what rules you would make to keep it safe.

4. A NEW POLL ABOUT THE PRESIDENT

A new poll shows that many Republicans feel President Trump has not yet helped lower the cost of living during his second term. Prices for food, health care, and other items are still high for many families. However, many Republicans still support his actions on immigration. While most Republicans approve of Trump’s overall job performance, some say their own lives have not improved financially. The poll shows that people can support a leader while still being unhappy about certain issues. Think about something in your life that you wish could be improved, like school lunches, recess time, or homework rules. Write a letter to a leader (such as a principal, mayor, or president) explaining what you would like to change and why it would help people. Write at least 4 sentences.

5. MONKEYS ON THE LOOSE IN ST. LOUIS

Several vervet monkeys escaped in St. Louis, and animal experts are trying to catch them safely. The monkeys are native to Africa and are not allowed to be kept as pets in the city. People have posted fake pictures online using artificial intelligence, which has made it harder to find the real monkeys. The monkeys are smart but can be unpredictable, so residents are being told to stay away and call animal control. Zoo experts are helping with the search. Create a “missing animal” poster for the monkeys. Include a drawing, a description of what they look like, and important safety tips for people who might see them. Then write 3 sentences explaining why it is important not to spread fake pictures or rumors online.