What aspect of education do McGuffey Readers primarily uphold?

The McGuffey Readers are primarily focused on upholding American values, which is why this answer is correct. Introduced in the 19th century, these educational texts were designed not only to teach reading and literacy but also to instill moral lessons and cultural norms reflective of American ideals at that time. They emphasized virtues such as hard work, perseverance, honesty, and the importance of education itself.

Each reader included a variety of stories, poems, and lessons that were carefully curated to mirror the beliefs and values deemed important for young Americans. This made the McGuffey Readers a cornerstone in American public education, as they played a significant role in shaping the character and civic responsibility of the nation’s youth.

In contrast, other choices emphasize concepts that, while important, do not capture the primary intent of the McGuffey Readers. Scientific knowledge and mathematical skills pertain more to specific subjects within the curriculum, and creative expression focuses on the arts and personal creativity. However, these aspects were not central to what the McGuffey Readers aimed to convey, which was the moral and ethical foundation of American society.