1. WORLD CUP WRAPS UP

The 2026 FIFA World Cup was the largest and most profitable tournament in history, but it was also marked by major political controversies. Critics questioned FIFA’s commitment to neutrality after President Donald Trump reportedly urged FIFA President Gianni Infantino to overturn the suspension of a U.S. player, a decision that sparked international backlash. Other controversies included visa restrictions affecting Iran’s team, the denial of entry to a referee, record-high ticket prices caused by dynamic pricing, and commercial changes such as extended hydration breaks that increased advertising revenue. Despite these disputes, the expanded 48-team tournament attracted record audiences and generated an estimated $13 billion for FIFA. The event raised broader questions about the balance between commercial success, political influence, and the integrity of international sports. Evaluate whether the 2026 World Cup should be remembered primarily as a sporting achievement or as a turning point in the relationship between sports, politics, and business. In an analytical essay of 8–10 sentences, discuss at least three controversies from the tournament, explain how they affected public trust in FIFA, and conclude by assessing what lessons international sports organizations should learn before future global events.

2. “THE ODYSSEY” HITS THEATERS

Christopher Nolan’s film adaptation of The Odyssey has been praised by critics for its visual scale and storytelling, but many classical scholars argue that it changes key elements of Homer’s epic. Some praised Nolan’s creativity while criticizing his portrayal of Odysseus as a troubled, guilt-driven hero instead of the clever and witty strategist described in the original poem. Others questioned the reduced role of important characters such as Penelope and the omission of major gods like Zeus and Poseidon. The debate highlights a common challenge in adapting classic literature: filmmakers must decide whether to remain faithful to the original work or reinterpret it for modern audiences. Although many scholars disagreed with Nolan’s choices, several still encouraged viewers to see the film and read Homer’s poem for comparison. Write a literary analysis examining the responsibilities of filmmakers when adapting classic works. Using examples from this story, explain two ways Nolan changed Homer’s original poem and analyze how those changes may alter the story’s themes or characters. Conclude by discussing whether artistic reinterpretation strengthens or weakens the value of adapting classic literature for modern audiences.

3. AIPAC’S RECORD SPENDING TESTS ITS POLITICAL INFLUENCE

The Michigan Democratic Senate primary has become a major test of the political influence of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC). The organization and affiliated groups have spent nearly $30 million supporting Representative Haley Stevens, making it the largest investment AIPAC has ever made in a single race. Her opponent, Abdul El-Sayed, has criticized the role of outside spending and emphasized grassroots organizing instead. The race reflects broader divisions within the Democratic Party over U.S. policy toward Israel and the war in Gaza, as well as ongoing debates about campaign finance and the influence of political action committees. Political analysts note that while the spending has attracted national attention, many voters may still prioritize issues such as the economy over foreign policy. Prepare a campaign finance briefing for a civics class. In one well-developed paragraph, explain how outside organizations such as political action committees can influence elections, identify both potential benefits and concerns of large independent expenditures, and discuss why transparency about political advertising matters for informed voters. End by suggesting one policy proposal that supporters and critics of campaign finance reform could both evaluate.

4. JUSTICE DEPARTMENT USES A LITTLE-KNOWN TERRORISM COURT

For the first time since it was created in 1996, the U.S. Justice Department has asked the Alien Terrorist Removal Court to consider deporting an individual accused of qualifying as an “alien terrorist.” The court was established to handle sensitive national security deportation cases but had never previously received a petition. After reviewing the government’s request, the judge asked for additional evidence before allowing the case to move forward. The filing comes as the Trump administration continues to expand the use of immigration enforcement tools in cases involving alleged national security threats. Because the court has never been used before, legal experts expect the case to raise important questions about due process, government authority, and the interpretation of existing immigration law. Imagine you are a constitutional law reporter covering the first case before the Alien Terrorist Removal Court. Write a news analysis explaining why this court was created, why it had never been used before, and why its first case is significant. Then analyze one potential benefit of using a specialized court for national security cases and one concern about civil liberties or due process that critics might raise. Conclude by explaining why the outcome of this case could influence future immigration and national security policy.

5. DISASTER-TRACKING APP EXPANDS AS CLIMATE RISKS GROW

Watch Duty, a nonprofit smartphone app originally designed to track California wildfires, has expanded to monitor floods and disasters across much of the United States. The app combines government warnings, weather forecasts, emergency radio traffic, and verified reports to provide users with real-time safety information. Its rapid growth reflects increasing public demand for timely disaster updates as climate change contributes to more frequent wildfires and flooding. Emergency officials, utility companies, and residents have begun relying on the app to improve preparedness and response. The story also highlights the growing role of private technology organizations in providing public safety information alongside government agencies. Write a policy analysis evaluating the growing role of nonprofit technology platforms in emergency management. In 8–10 sentences, explain why services like Watch Duty have become increasingly important, identify both the advantages and limitations of relying on privately developed technology during disasters, and assess how governments and nonprofit organizations could work together to improve public warning systems as climate-related emergencies become more common.