As the 2016 Presidential election is approaching, US high school students have become more interested in the election. They hope to have a voice in the process and, finally, have a say in deciding the next US president.
“Even though I will not be old enough to vote in the next presidential election, my voice matters, as do the voices of every other individual in this country,” Wilentz (will only be 17 this November) said. “Discussions I may have with my peers(同龄人), debates with teachers and communication with my parents allow me to be heard and give my opinions and insight (洞察力).”
Alain Jean, the 2008 African American vote director for Barack Obama in the state of Florida, said high school students should be paying attention to the presidential election because many of them will be of voting age by election time. She said candidates have views and positions on certain topics that may affect teens’ lives.
Cypress Bay High junior Olivia Ohayon said, “I believe it is my responsibility to discuss, and try to persuade my parents and other adults to concern themselves with the issues important to the younger generation when casting their vote for president, such as the cost of college education.”
Not only do teenagers think their voices are important, but some also think parents have to consider the views of their children when casting their vote. According to Lucy Rimalower, a licensed marriage and family therapist (治疗专家), parents must consider whether their vote represents their household and the teens living in it.
Jean said teenagers can also influence the election in other ways by getting involved in campaigns. She suggests that teenagers who actually believe in one of the candidates find the local headquarters (总部) for a campaign and volunteer. Campaign volunteers stuff(装满) envelopes, wave signs and go into neighborhoods to drop off literature (宣传材料) and try to get the word out.
9. Which of the following statements is TRUE?
A. Teenagers can influence the election by expressing their opinions.
B. Most US high school students have the right to vote in the presidential election.
C. Wilentz is interested in the election because he enjoys debates and discussions.
D. Students below voting age are not allowed to participate in election campaigns.
10. According to Alain Jean, ______________.
A. teenagers are too young to take part in the election
B. the candidates’ views could influence students’ lives
C. candidates should pay more attention to teenagers’ opinions
D. students should be prepared for voting from an early age
11. According to Rimalower, parents should consider the views of their children during the election because _____________.
A. they should respect their children’s right to vote
B. the election process could help their children develop debating and thinking skills
C. their votes should represent not only themselves but also other family members
D. they could reduce the cost of education for their children
12. What can we infer from the article?
A. Parents do not like their children to participate in elections.
B. Many people encourage teenagers’ involvement in the election process.
C. Candidates who care more about the younger generation’s issues are more likely to win.
D. Students who are interested in elections only care about themselves.