Writing Prompts 9/18/16 – 9/22/16

September 18 On this day in 1851, the New York Times newspaper was first published.  Do you think it’s important for students your age to keep up on current events?  Why or why not? 

September 19 Residents of Mexico were shaken by a magnitude 8.0 earthquake on this date in 1985. Is the area you live in prone to earthquakes? What would you do in the case of an earthquake in your area?

September 20 On this date in 1519, Ferdinand Magellan began his search for the Spice Islands.  Magellan led the first successful attempt to sail around the entire Earth.  Compare sailing today to how it probably was in 1519.

September 21 On September 21, 1928, elementary-aged students were introduced to the current event magazine called My Weekly Reader. This student resource is now available in print or digital formats. Why do you think it’s important for you and your classmates to stay up-to-date on the latest current events from around the world?

September 22 On this day in 1789, the United States Post Office opened.  In recent years, many people have begun to use email.  Do you think there will ever be a time in the future that the only items actually “mailed” by the Post Office are packages?  And all letters and magazines will be sent via email?