1. ARGENTINA REACHES THE WORLD CUP SEMIFINALS

Argentina earned a dramatic 3–1 victory over Switzerland in the World Cup quarterfinals after the match went into extra time. Alexis Mac Allister gave Argentina an early lead, but Switzerland tied the game in the second half. Soon afterward, Switzerland was reduced to 10 players when Breel Embolo received a red card after video review changed an earlier decision, a ruling that Swiss players and coaches strongly criticized. Julián Alvarez scored a long-range goal late in extra time, and Lautaro Martínez added another goal to secure the win. Although Lionel Messi’s streak of scoring in nine straight World Cup matches ended, he helped create Argentina’s first goal with an assist. Argentina will now face England in the semifinals, joining France and Spain as the tournament’s final four teams. Create your own news brief as if you’re covering the World Cup for your school newspaper. Include details about Argentina’s recent win and the upcoming semifinal games.

2. F.B.I. LEAK INVESTIGATION RAISES QUESTIONS ABOUT PRESS FREEDOM

The White House directed F.B.I. Director Kash Patel to oversee an investigation into how information about security concerns involving the new Air Force One became public. The investigation followed news reports describing missing defensive features on the aircraft, which angered President Trump. Federal officials issued subpoenas to several New York Times reporters, asking them to provide testimony before a grand jury. The administration said it was investigating possible leaks of classified information, not targeting journalists themselves. Critics argued that quickly subpoenaing reporters instead of first focusing on government employees who may have leaked information could discourage investigative journalism. The situation has renewed debate about balancing national security with freedom of the press. Imagine you are writing an editorial for your school newspaper about anonymous sources in journalism. In 8–10 sentences, explain why reporters sometimes protect confidential sources, describe why governments investigate leaks of classified information, and analyze how both goals can come into conflict. End by explaining what principles you think should guide investigations involving the news media.

3. MCCONNELL SHARES DETAILS ABOUT HIS HEALTH

Senator Mitch McConnell announced that a fall caused the hospitalization that had led to weeks of public speculation about his health. The 84-year-old senator said he briefly lost consciousness but did not suffer a concussion, stroke, heart attack, or broken bones. He was also treated for mild pneumonia and is recovering at a rehabilitation facility. McConnell explained that he had delayed sharing details because many people of his generation are uncomfortable discussing the challenges of aging. His absence comes at an important time for the Senate, where Republicans are working on legislation and confirming presidential nominees. McConnell said he plans to continue serving and hopes to finish the term that Kentucky voters elected him to complete. Public officials often face questions about how much personal health information they should share. Write a response of 8–10 sentences discussing where you think the balance should be between medical privacy and public transparency for elected leaders. Use details from this story to explain why some people wanted more information and why others might believe certain medical details should remain private.

4. CLIMATE SCIENCE CRITIC CHOSEN TO LEAD MAJOR FEDERAL REPORT

The Trump administration appointed Matthew Wielicki to oversee the National Climate Assessment, an important federal report that explains how climate change affects different parts of the United States. Wielicki is a geochemist who has publicly criticized many conclusions reached by climate scientists, arguing that the risks of global warming are often overstated. Supporters believe his leadership could bring a fresh perspective to the report, while critics note that he has not published peer-reviewed climate science research and worry the report could become less reliable. Earlier this year, the administration dismissed many scientists who had been working on the next assessment. Researchers and environmental groups say communities depend on accurate climate information to prepare for risks such as floods, wildfires, droughts, and rising sea levels. The debate highlights disagreements about how scientific evidence should be used in government decision-making. Imagine you are serving on a committee that must choose someone to lead an important scientific project. Write an 8–10 sentence explanation describing the qualifications you think the leader should have. Discuss the importance of education, research experience, peer review, and the ability to consider different viewpoints before making recommendations.

5. SPACE MIRROR PROJECT RECEIVES APPROVAL FOR A TEST

The Federal Communications Commission approved a plan for a company called Reflect Orbital to test a satellite with a large mirror that would reflect sunlight onto small areas of Earth after dark. The company believes the technology could provide extra light for solar farms, construction projects, emergency responders, and other uses. However, astronomers, wildlife experts, and environmental groups worry that the reflected light could interfere with scientific observations, disrupt animals, and affect natural sleep cycles. The government approved only one demonstration satellite and said broader environmental concerns fall outside the agency’s current responsibilities. If the technology works, the company hopes to launch thousands of similar satellites in the future. The proposal has sparked debate about how new technologies should be tested when they could affect people around the world. Write a proposal to a government review panel in 8–10 sentences evaluating whether larger space mirror projects should move forward after the test. Include at least one possible benefit, at least two potential risks, and two conditions or safeguards you believe should be required before expanding the project.