1. SPORT DEBATE

Artistic swimming, previously known as synchronized swimming, is a sport that combines elements of ballet, gymnastics, and swimming, performed to dramatic music. Athletes in this sport must be graceful and flexible, while also holding their breath underwater for up to two minutes. They perform routines that include acrobatic lifts and intricate movements, all while wearing elaborate costumes and makeup. Despite its visually stunning nature, artistic swimming often struggles for recognition as a legitimate sport. The routines are incredibly challenging, requiring athletes to maintain perfect synchronization and a joyful appearance, even when they’re exhausted or in discomfort. In 2017, the sport updated its name to "artistic swimming" and added new routines to show its athleticism and appeal. This year’s Olympics have also allowed men to compete for the first time, although no men’s teams are present in Paris yet. Teams perform three types of routines: technical, free, and acrobatic, each with its own theme and music. For instance, the U.S. team’s theme is “I Am Water,” featuring a soundtrack narrated by Jason Momoa. Despite its difficulties and the effort it takes to look flawless, artistic swimming remains a captivating and crowd-pleasing sport. If you were creating a promotional campaign to increase awareness for the athleticism of artistic swimming, what would you do? Write a plan for your promotional campaign, including descriptions of any visual elements and written copy you would include?

2. NEW NASAL SPRAY

The FDA has approved a new nasal spray called Neffy to treat severe allergic reactions, making it the first needle-free alternative to shots like the EpiPen. Neffy is designed for people who weigh at least 66 pounds and is used in emergencies when someone is experiencing anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction. The spray is easy to use, especially for children, and is expected to cost about the same as current auto-injectors. This new option could be life-changing for the millions of Americans with severe allergies, offering a less scary and more convenient way to manage their condition. If you were writing an article about this new drug, who would you interview and what angle would you use to present this information? Write a paragraph about what approach you would take.

3. COVID CONCERNS

At the Paris Olympics, most teams have moved on from COVID-19 precautions, but the Netherlands is still being cautious. The Dutch team has decided to avoid handshakes, high-fives, and hugs, sticking to fist bumps to limit contact. This approach is partly because of past pandemic experiences and to avoid illness that might affect their performance. While other countries have relaxed their COVID rules, the Netherlands is being extra careful, believing that even small measures could make a difference in their chances of winning. Their strategy seems to be working well, especially in field hockey, where both their men’s and women’s teams have made it to the finals. Using research from your newspaper or online, write an article comparing this approach to how Covid has affected other athletes, like Noah Lyles in his 200-meter race.

4. OLYMPIANS GOING VIRAL

During the Paris Olympics, several athletes became internet stars for their unique and entertaining moments: Giorgia Villa, the Italian gymnast who missed the 2020 Games due to an injury, helped her team win silver in gymnastics. She became famous online for her previous work as a cheese ambassador. Henrik Christiansen, a Norwegian swimmer, went viral for his enthusiastic reviews of the Olympic Village's chocolate muffins. His videos about the muffins have gained millions of views. Yusuf Dikec, a Turkish pistol shooter known for his relaxed style and cool demeanor, earned comparisons to action movie characters. Kim Yeji is a South Korean shooter who impressed fans with her stylish appearance and confident performance, winning silver in her event. Yaroslava Mahuchikh, a Ukrainian high jumper, used a sleeping bag to relax between jumps, which helped her win gold. Brazilian surfer Gabriel Medina became famous for an amazing photo of him catching a wave, earning him a bronze medal. Finally, American gymnast Stephen Nedoroscik won bronze on the pommel horse and was likened to Clark Kent for his endearing personality. These athletes and celebrities have captured the public’s imagination with their memorable moments and personalities. If you were interviewing athletes to write or broadcast stories about the Olympics, would you cover athletes who did well in their events or those who had standout personalities that drew attention online? Write a paragraph about your answer and reasoning.

5. V.P. PICK

Vice President Kamala Harris had a tough decision to make about who would be her running mate. She had three top choices: Tim Walz, Mark Kelly, and Josh Shapiro. Harris and her team had carefully looked at each candidate’s strengths and weaknesses, and they thought any of them could help her win. In the end, Harris picked Tim Walz, the governor of Minnesota. She felt a strong connection with him during their meeting, and he seemed very eager to help. Walz, who is known for his positive attitude and willingness to do whatever it takes, made a great impression. Although Shapiro and Kelly were strong candidates, Walz's joyful personality and his track record made him stand out. Harris and Walz announced their partnership at a rally in Philadelphia, where they promised to work hard together for the campaign. Using research from your newspaper or online, write a profile of Tim Walz and how he might help Harris’ bid for president.