Question

In this portfolio, you will write an argumentative text in response to this prompt:

What is one change that would improve the education of 14- to 18-year-olds? Write an argumentative text in which you make a case for one major change that educators should make to what is taught or how something is taught. State your position clearly and support it with claims, reasons, and evidence. Be sure to address any relevant counterclaims. Write it like a 9th grader and attach a source or 2 to it.

Answers

Answered by GPT-4o mini
**Improving Education for 14- to 18-Year-Olds: The Case for Financial Literacy**

As students transition from adolescence into early adulthood, it becomes increasingly important to equip them with the necessary skills to manage their financial futures. One major change that educators should implement to improve the education of 14- to 18-year-olds is the incorporation of financial literacy into the curriculum. Teaching students how to budget, understand credit, and manage debt will not only prepare them for real-world challenges but also contribute to their overall success and well-being.

First and foremost, financial literacy is essential in today's society, where young people are often faced with complex financial decisions. According to a report from the National Endowment for Financial Education (NEFE), 70% of high school seniors said they felt unprepared to handle personal finance issues. This lack of preparedness can lead to poor financial choices, such as excessive student loan debt or unmanageable credit card bills, which can have lasting consequences on their lives. By integrating financial literacy education into high school curriculums, we can empower students to make informed decisions about their finances.

Moreover, teaching financial literacy promotes critical thinking and practical life skills. For example, students can learn to create budgets, which helps them prioritize their spending and save for the future. A study conducted by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) found that individuals who receive financial education are more likely to make sound financial decisions throughout their lives. If we provide students with these valuable skills during their crucial formative years, we equip them for not just financial success, but also for responsible citizenship.

While some may argue that adding financial literacy to the curriculum could take time away from traditional subjects like math and science, this concern can be addressed by integrating financial concepts into those subjects. For instance, math classes could include units on calculating interest rates or understanding mortgages. By doing this, educators can teach financial literacy without sacrificing critical academic content.

In conclusion, implementing financial literacy education for students aged 14 to 18 is a necessary change that would drastically improve their education and prepare them for life after graduation. By equipping students with practical financial skills, we can help them avoid the pitfalls of poor financial decisions and foster a generation of financially savvy adults. It’s time for schools to recognize the importance of financial education and make it a priority in their curricula.

**Sources:**
1. National Endowment for Financial Education (NEFE). (2021). “The Importance of Financial Literacy for Students.”
2. Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA). (2019). “Financial Literacy Survey.”
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