1. What is an adult? Ask your students to generate a list of characteristics that they think describe adults (you could let them first brainstorm in pairs, or simply begin with a large group brainstorm session). Write all of their suggestions on the board. Are any of the items listed debatable? After the students have a list they agree upon, have them decide if they “qualify” as adults. What do their answers to this question mean for emerging and young adulthood? Next, have students brainstorm all the role transitions that mark the transition from adolescence to adulthood in America. Ask them whether there are any rites of passage in American culture. Write all of their ideas on the board and then allow time to debate items that are controversial. Discuss whether or not the role transitions and rites of passage they came up with are adequate for Americans to adjust to adulthood. Would they like to see more formalized rites of passage? Why or why not? If so, what might these rites look like in American society?