The American Dream

Warm Up

1. Have you heard of “the American Dream” before?

2. What is a dream you have?

3. What goals have your accomplished?

Reading

Surveys Say the 'American Dream' Is Alive But Younger Americans Worry.

People have been chasing the "American Dream" for a long time. The idea dates back to the 18th century, with people from all over the world arriving in the US in search of freedom and equality. But what does the American Dream mean to people today?

GoDaddy, a web hosting company, surveyed 1,000 US adults. When asked what they think, 56% of participants said living comfortably, while 54% said feeling happy. People also said that they had the freedom to follow their passions, owned a home, and some even said they were self-employed. This shows that many think they have achieved the American Dream.

While 34% of participants said their American Dream had changed from when they were children, 62% said they're very confident that they will one day achieve it. Another survey by the Archbridge Institute and the University of Chicago found that 75% of US adults feel they have either achieved the American Dream or are close to achieving it. But this survey also found that a greater number of people than ever before believe the American Dream is "out of reach."

Gen Z participants were the least confident about this. The Archbridge researchers said reasons for doubt among younger people include increased living costs, fewer housing options, higher crime rates and more. However, they added that the idea of the American Dream is still strong among most US adults.

Reading Comprehension

1. What percentage of people said feeling happy shows they have achieved the American Dream?

2. Did most participants believe that they would one day achieve the American Dream?

3. What are the main reasons young people doubt they will achieve the American Dream?

Discussion Questions

1. What are your thoughts on the findings of this survey?

2. What comes to mind when you think of the American Dream?

3. Have you achieved any lifelong goals or dreams?

4. What are some of your main goals in life? When do you hope to achieve them?

5. Do you know anyone who you'd say is living their dream life?

6. Do you know anyone who lives in the US? Would you consider moving there?

7. What do you imagine makes people want to move to your country?

8. What do younger generations in your country often complain about?

9. Are most of the people you know generally optimistic about the future?

10. If your dreams don't scare you, they are not big enough. — Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. What are your thoughts on this statement?