1. EUROPE WELCOMES SCIENTISTS

Many scientists in the United States are losing their jobs or struggling to get research funding because of big cuts made by the Trump administration. These cuts affect important science agencies and universities, including places like NOAA, Columbia, and Yale. As a result, some researchers—like David Die Dejean, who studies tuna—are now looking for work in Europe, where countries are trying to attract scientists by offering more money and support. France, Germany, and other European countries are starting special programs to welcome U.S. researchers, especially those working on climate change, health, and equality. Even though the U.S. still spends more overall on science than Europe, many researchers feel uncertain about their future and are worried they won’t be able to continue their important work unless they leave the country. Why do you think scientists are important for solving problems like climate change or protecting animals like tuna? In a paragraph, explain how losing research jobs in the U.S. could affect everyone, not just scientists. Then, think about how other countries are responding—do you think Europe’s effort to welcome these scientists is a good idea? Why or why not? Use examples from the article to support your answer.

2. HEALTH EFFECTS OF CLIMATE CHANGE

Scientists across the United States have been studying how climate change affects people’s health — including how wildfires and heat waves might cause problems like asthma, heart attacks, and even premature births. Much of this research has been paid for by grants from the National Institutes of Health (N.I.H.). But now that Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is leading the Department of Health and Human Services under the Trump administration, the government says it will stop funding studies related to climate change, gender identity, and other topics. Scientists worry this will stop important health research and leave us unprepared for how extreme weather may affect people in the future. Even though climate change studies used only a small part of the N.I.H. budget, they were helping communities find ways to stay healthier during things like wildfires and extreme heat. Think about how extreme weather affects people where you live. Write a short paragraph explaining one type of extreme weather (like a heat wave or wildfire), and describe how it might affect a person’s health. Then explain one thing a community could do to help people stay safe and healthy during that kind of weather.

3. BLUE ORIGIN FLIGHT FACES BACKLASH

Blue Origin, the space company founded by Jeff Bezos, recently launched a spaceflight on April 14, 2025, with an all-female crew of six well-known women, including singer Katy Perry, journalist Gayle King, and scientist Amanda Nguyen. The short trip lasted under 11 minutes and was part of Blue Origin’s space tourism program. While some people celebrated the mission as historic and inspiring, others criticized it, saying it was wasteful and did not truly benefit society. Celebrities like Olivia Munn and Jessica Chastain questioned the value of the mission, suggesting it didn’t help people on Earth. In response, the crew members said their flight was about advancing science, collecting data, and inspiring young women and girls to get excited about space and science careers. The team stood by their journey and said they were proud of what they accomplished. Write a paragraph giving your opinion about space tourism. Do you think it is helpful or harmful to society? Use at least two facts or examples from the article to support your opinion. Then, suggest one way space travel could be used to help people on Earth.

4. KENNEDY’S AUTISM REMARKS

U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. recently made controversial comments about autism that upset many parents, experts, and autism advocates. After a new CDC report showed that 1 in 31 American 8-year-olds had been diagnosed with autism in 2022, Kennedy questioned the rise in diagnoses and blamed it on “environmental exposures.” He dismissed expert opinions that increased awareness and better testing are the main reasons for the higher numbers. Many parents of children with autism said his words were harmful, spreading fear and misunderstanding about what autism is. Experts reminded the public that autism is a spectrum—meaning every person with autism is different. Some need more help, while others live very independent, successful lives. Advocacy groups say more science-based research and support are needed, but that public officials should speak respectfully and accurately about autism. Create an informational poster, brochure, or slide presentation about autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to help your classmates better understand what it is. Your project should explain what autism is, how it affects people differently, and include facts about communication, behavior, learning styles, and sensory sensitivities. Highlight the wide range of abilities and strengths people with autism can have. Include at least one section focused on how to be inclusive and supportive of classmates with autism. After completing your project, write a short reflection on something new you learned and why understanding autism is important for building a more respectful and inclusive school community.

5. RENOVATION AT PENN STATION

The Trump administration has announced that it will take control of a $7 billion project to renovate Penn Station in New York City, one of the busiest train stations in the country. The Department of Transportation says the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), which had been managing the project, has been inefficient. Federal officials now want Amtrak, which owns the station, to partner with private investors to lead the renovation. New York Governor Kathy Hochul said the move will save the state $1.3 billion. However, some local leaders worry that the federal government might mismanage the project or cut important parts of the plan. The announcement comes during ongoing political disagreements between the federal government and New York over transportation policies. Write a short paragraph explaining whether you think the federal government should take control of local projects like the Penn Station renovation. Use at least two reasons from the article to support your opinion. Then, think about another public place in your community that could be improved. Describe what you would change and why, and who you think should be in charge of making it better—local, state, or federal leaders.