1. CONGRESS PUSHES BACK ON BUDGET CUTS

President Trump proposed major cuts to federal science funding, including steep reductions to agencies that support research, but Congress is now moving to reverse many of those cuts. A bipartisan package from the Senate Appropriations Committee would largely restore funding levels, leaving overall research spending only slightly below the most recent budget and even increasing “basic research,” which is the kind that helps scientists make discoveries that can later lead to new technologies and medical advances. Congress’s plan also protects funding for organizations like the National Science Foundation, which the White House had wanted to cut by more than half. Lawmakers supporting the new plan argue that science funding helps public safety, families, and U.S. competitiveness, and they want to avoid another government shutdown by passing spending bills before temporary funding runs out. At the same time, analysts warn that the chaos of big proposed cuts and last-minute reversals can still damage research because projects and careers depend on stability. Write the opening paragraph of a short speech for a student group advocating for sustained science funding. In one well-developed paragraph, explain what it means that Congress has the “power of the purse,” describe one way federal research funding affects everyday life (such as medical care, technology, weather forecasting, or public safety), and include one sentence recognizing a common argument for reducing government spending, even if you do not agree with it.

2. U.S. AIRSTRIKES IN SYRIA

The United States carried out major airstrikes in Syria against Islamic State targets, using multiple types of aircraft and drones and hitting dozens of sites tied to the group’s weapons, supply routes, and operations. The strikes followed an even larger set of attacks in December that the U.S. described as retaliation after two U.S. Army soldiers and a civilian interpreter were killed in Syria. U.S. officials argue that the attacks are meant to prevent future threats and support partner forces in the region, especially as ISIS tries to rebuild influence after the fall of Syria’s longtime dictator in 2024. Even though ISIS no longer controls much territory, officials say it still operates through hidden cells, online propaganda, and affiliates, and intelligence leaders have warned that the group could try to free thousands of fighters and family members being held in northeastern Syria. The situation also shows how difficult it can be for Syria’s new government to stabilize a country still fractured by years of civil war. Write one structured paragraph that explains the situation to a reader who is unfamiliar with the background. In 6–8 sentences, summarize the stated purpose of the airstrikes, describe at least one challenge or risk that can come with military action in a complicated region, and include one thoughtful question you would ask officials to better understand how success will be evaluated and what protections exist for civilians.

3. MISSISSIPPI TRANSFORMS ITS SCHOOLS

Mississippi has shown unusually large improvements on national tests since 2013, especially in early-grade reading, even though it has high poverty and spends relatively little compared with many wealthier states. Schools like Hazlehurst Elementary focused intensely on academics by changing how reading is taught using the “science of reading,” raising academic standards, and holding schools accountable with letter grades while also measuring student growth, not just whether students hit a proficiency bar. The state sends literacy and math coaches into low-performing schools to train teachers, approves curriculum used by most districts, and uses structured schedules that devote significant time to reading and extra support. One controversial policy is holding back third graders who cannot pass the reading test, which supporters say can help when combined with early screening and extra tutoring, but critics worry about the emotional impact. Even with progress, challenges remain, especially in later grades and in dealing with issues like absenteeism and attention problems, and Mississippi’s leaders are trying to expand coaching and keep standards high. Select one policy or strategy from Mississippi’s approach that you believe could be realistically implemented in your own school. In one paragraph, identify the strategy, explain why it could improve student learning using at least two specific details from the article, and conclude by describing one obstacle or trade-off school leaders would need to address to make the plan work.

4. IMPEACHMENT INFO REMOVED FROM TRUMP DISPLAY

The Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery replaced a portrait of President Trump and removed wall text that mentioned he was impeached twice, language that had upset the White House. The earlier label had included both accomplishments and the impeachment sentence, but the updated text now only identifies him as the 45th and 47th president and includes basic biographical information. The change is happening while the Smithsonian faces pressure from the Trump administration to present a more positive view of American history and while it risks budget consequences if it does not provide documents the White House has demanded during a review of museum exhibits. The museum has said that it is updating parts of its “America’s Presidents” exhibition and that the history of impeachments is still represented in its museums, and the Smithsonian’s website still notes impeachment information for other presidents like Bill Clinton. The situation raises questions about museum independence, political pressure, and what it means to present “accurate history” in public spaces. Write a short dialogue in paragraph form between two students visiting a museum exhibit about U.S. presidents. Have one student argue that removing the impeachment sentence weakens historical accuracy, and have the other student argue that exhibit labels should stay brief and avoid political controversy. End with two sentences in your own voice explaining which argument you find more convincing and why, using at least one reason connected to the purpose of museums.

5. NEW DIETARY GUIDELINES

The Trump administration released new dietary guidelines that strongly emphasize protein and tell people to avoid added sugars and highly processed foods, but they also “flip” the traditional food pyramid by placing foods like red meat, cheese, and whole milk near the top. The guidelines still encourage fruits and vegetables and keep the same limit on saturated fat, yet they also praise foods that are high in saturated fat, which some health groups warn could confuse people and lead to unhealthy choices if taken too far. Another controversy is how the guidelines were created, because the health secretary rejected advice from a previous expert committee and relied on a new group of experts who worked privately, and several of them disclosed financial ties to food industries. The rules matter beyond personal choices because they influence meals in schools, hospitals, and other public programs. Overall, the guidelines mix some widely accepted advice with recommendations that critics say are not well supported by strong scientific evidence. Write one balanced paragraph responding to two oversimplified interpretations of the new guidelines: one claiming they encourage unlimited red meat and butter, and the other claiming the guidelines are therefore useless. In your response, accurately summarize what the guidelines emphasize, identify one recommendation that aligns with widely accepted nutrition advice, and explain one reason experts have raised concerns about parts of the guidance, focusing on how readers should interpret health guidance carefully rather than reacting to headlines.