How much is a college degree worth?
Critical Analysis
Find answers to the following questions using the visual above, any links below, your big brain, and your knowledge of American government and politics:
If an American has less than a high school diploma, what is their median weekly earnings?
If an American has a bachelor’s degree, what is their median weekly earnings?
Of all the degrees listed above, which is the highest earning?
Draw a conclusion about the impact of education level on earning?
Money isn’t everything. What are some other advantages that a person receives from extending their education?
Most of high school and college spending is paid for by state government, not the federal government. Explain how education spending illustrates the concept of federalism.
As you think of the people you know in your life, how does the data from the visual above correspond to the actual experiences in your life.
A student named Josh said, “College today is too expensive. There is no reason to go to college. I’m going to be the quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs!” Besides the fact that the Chiefs already have a pretty good quarterback, how would you respond to Josh’s claim?
High school attendance did not become commonplace until the 20th century. In 1910, just 14% of Americans aged 25 and older had completed high school! Only 3% had completed college! Today, the government provides a free universal education to all Americans through 12th grade. Based on the data from the visual above, explain whether you believe the government should offer free education through college?
Less than half of American over the age of 25 have a bachelor’s degree. Identify one thing the federal government could do to increase levels of higher educational attainment?
Write and Discuss
Take ten minutes to write about the question at the top of the page and then discuss with your classmates.
Act on your Learning
To receive financial aid, you must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) form. You can use Federal Student Aid Estimator to see how much aid may be available to you.
Get Creative
If American educational attainment were a type of automobile, what would it be?
Learning Extension
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