To the Editor:

Have you ever wondered why the United States has never switched to the metric system?  I certainly have.  Let's make the switch and make our lives a whole lot easier.

The United States is the only industrialized country in the world that isn't using the metric system.  All of the other countries have made the switch because the metric system is much easier to use.  Converting is much more simple as well as reading a thermometer.

During the presidential campaigns, I haven't heard any candidates talk about switching.  This makes me a little bit upset because I believe it is a big problem in the United States.  Interstate 19 in Arizona, also known as “Metric Highway,” has featured metric units on road signs since the 1980s.  People have gotten used to this and it has worked out fine.

When kids are being taught two different measurement systems, it can be confusing for them. I have some personal experience with this. I'm learning two different systems and it certainly can be confusing.

You always need to make sure you are measuring or reading a thermometer in the correct unit.  In my class, I know quite a few people who like the metric system more than the English system.  In the 1970s, the United States tried to go metric but failed. If we did achieve this, kids wouldn't have to worry about learning two systems!  I believe we can try again to make the change.

When using the metric system, it is much easier to make conversions. The metric system is based on 10.  This is much easier than random numbers like the English system.  In school, I learned a way to remember the metric system conversions. But, in the English system you just need to memorize them.  Also, the metric system was designed to be easier to use and I believe this is true.

Some people think this switch would cause a disaster.  But, all of the countries have gone through it and it worked out just fine!  

I would like to see more things like the Arizona highway being built. I hope more people would consider beginning to learn more about the metric system.

In the end, I think everyone would be happy if United States switched to the metric system. I hope after reading this, you have considered agreeing with me.  The metric system is a much better choice! I hope we switch soon!

Ava Thomson

Farnsworth Middle School