1. REDISTRICTING SHAKES UP HOUSE RACES

Republicans have gained new momentum in the fight over congressional maps after several court rulings and new redistricting efforts in Republican-led states. Redistricting means changing the lines of voting districts, and those lines can make some seats easier for one party to win. Recent changes in states like Florida, Tennessee, Louisiana, Alabama, and Virginia could give Republicans about 10 more favorable House seats than they had before. Democrats still believe they can win the House because President Trump faces low approval ratings, high gas prices, and an unpopular war in Iran. Still, the new maps may force Democrats to compete in tougher districts. Write a paragraph explaining why redistricting can have such a big effect on elections. Use at least two details from the story, such as the court rulings, the changed maps, or the shrinking number of easy Democratic seats, and explain why some people worry when voters have less control over who represents them.

2. HANTAVIRUS OUTBREAK WORRIES TRAVELERS

A hantavirus outbreak on a cruise ship has killed three people and made several others sick, but health experts say it is unlikely to become another pandemic. Hantaviruses are carried by rodents, and people can become infected if they breathe in particles from rodent droppings, urine, or saliva. The strain in this outbreak can rarely spread between people, but that usually requires very close contact. Experts are still investigating how the virus got onto the ship, and health officials are monitoring passengers who left before the outbreak was known. Even though the situation is serious, doctors say the risk to the wider public remains low. Create a travel health advisory for people who hear scary headlines about an outbreak. In one paragraph, explain what travelers should know about hantavirus, why experts are not treating this like COVID-19, and why it is still important for health officials to track passengers and possible cases.

3. “THE VIEW” BECOMES A FREE SPEECH FIGHT

ABC’s daytime talk show “The View” has become part of a larger free speech fight between the Trump administration and the media. The Federal Communications Commission has been investigating whether the show violated rules requiring equal airtime for political candidates. ABC argues that the investigation could discourage talk shows from inviting political guests or discussing elections freely. The show has been around for nearly 30 years and still reaches millions of viewers, especially older women in important swing states. Supporters of the investigation say the show is unfairly tilted against Trump and Republicans, while ABC says the government should not punish a program because officials dislike its viewpoints. Write a short dialogue between two people discussing the F.C.C. investigation of “The View.” One person should argue that political talk shows need fairness rules, while the other should argue that government pressure could threaten free speech. Make sure both speakers use facts from the story rather than just opinions.

4. UNDERSTANDING BODY DYSMORPHIC DISORDER

Body dysmorphic disorder, or B.D.D., is a mental health condition that causes people to become deeply focused on flaws in their appearance that others may barely notice. It is not the same as vanity because people with B.D.D. can feel extreme distress, avoid school or work, check mirrors for hours, or seek constant reassurance. The disorder often begins during the teen years and can happen along with conditions like obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression, or social anxiety. Experts say trying to “fix” appearance through cosmetic changes often does not solve the deeper anxiety. Treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy and certain medications can help people see themselves in a healthier, more complete way. Design a mental health awareness card for students about body dysmorphic disorder. Include a clear explanation of what B.D.D. is, two warning signs someone might notice, and one supportive thing a friend could say or do. Your card should make clear that B.D.D. is a serious health condition.

5. WHY THE MET GALA MADE PEOPLE ANGRY

The Met Gala is a famous fashion event where celebrities wear dramatic designer outfits, but this year many people reacted with anger instead of excitement. Some readers said the event felt out of touch at a time when gas, groceries, and other costs are high for ordinary Americans. Critics compared the glamorous clothes, wealthy guests, and expensive tickets to a symbol of inequality. Organizers point out that the gala raises millions of dollars for the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s fashion department, including $42 million this year. Still, many viewers feel the event offers little to the public beyond photos of rich and famous people in extravagant outfits. Write a thoughtful response about whether celebrity events can still be meaningful during difficult economic times. Use at least two details from the story, such as the high ticket costs, the money raised, the reader criticism, or the presence of very wealthy guests, and explain why public reaction to glamour can change depending on what is happening in the country.