After reading this short research essay - answer Question One

Should the drinking age in the United States be lowered to 18?

The legal drinking age in the United States is 21, but some argue that it should be lowered to 18. Some people argue that it is appropriate to lower the drinking age because 18-year-olds are legally considered adults and should have the right to make their own judgements about drinking alcohol. They also argue that 18-year-olds can vote, serve in the military, and be held responsible for their actions in a court of law, so they should be able to drink alcohol legally as well. Opponents of a lower drinking age, however, argue that it could have a detrimental impact on the environment by increasing drunk driving accidents and other adverse consequences.

It is for a number of reasons that the drinking age should be lowered in the United States from 21 to 18 years of age. First, many 18-year-olds are legally considered adults and have the right to make important decisions about their lives, including joining the military, voting, and signing contracts. It seems illogical to deny them the right to consume alcohol.

Second, studies have shown that countries with lower drinking ages, such as European countries, have lower rates of binge drinking and alcohol-related problems than the United States. In fact, many European countries have a drinking age of 18 or lower, and they have lower rates of alcohol-related accidents and deaths than the United States.

Third, lowering the drinking age could help to reduce the appeal of alcohol to underage individuals. Many young people are attracted to alcohol precisely because it is forbidden. By lowering the drinking age, alcohol would become less of a forbidden fruit, and young people might be less likely to drink excessively.

In conclusion, the drinking age in the United States should be lowered to 18. Allowing 18-year-olds to drink alcohol legally would be consistent with their status as legal adults and could help to reduce the appeal of alcohol to underage individuals. Moreover, studies have shown that lower drinking ages can lead to lower rates of alcohol-related problems. While some may worry about the potential negative consequences of lowering the drinking age, these concerns can be addressed through education and enforcement of laws against drunk driving and other alcohol-related offenses.

Question 1:

Complete the THREE steps: After reading the mini research essay.

STEP 1. Self-reflection on what you created, crafted, AND wrote regarding your research essay.

STEP 2. Answer these questions to help you guide your self-reflection essay.

• M. What was the MOST interesting "thing" about this project for you?
• A. What was something about the process ofcreating this project that you AGREED with? For example, did you agree with the process of you determining the entire project?
• N. What was something about the process of creating this project that you did NOT AGREE with?
• I. What would you say is the most INTERESTING point you are trying to make when you created this research essay?
• C. What still CONFUSES you about the process? Additionally, what CONFUSES you about the discoveries that came up as you crafted your research essay?

Question 2: Write a life list (i.e., bucket list) for your elderly self.