This is a persuasive argument. Ask students if spending is a moral issue. What can you tell about people from the way they spend their money?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

1) The first sentence states his point. The author is a skillful
persuader.
2) Brown is addressing a general audience of American adults.
3) Let students discuss this. Answers will vary according to their
backgrounds and previous schooling.
4) “Cost” can be argued. Ask students how much they paid for their
prom. What price tag did they put on their prom? How much is
too much? Answers will depend on their definition of “excessive.”
5) The author knows that “cost” is his primary argument.
6) What would they do in the principal’s position? What does he gain
and lose by waiting until September of the current school year?
Let students discuss the question of timing.
7) Let students discuss.
8) Let students discuss this.