B2 – Upper Intermediate
The Barbie doll has always been an iconic toy. It’s famous throughout the globe. During the past decades, Barbie doll has undergone through many developments in terms of its appearance. But recently, another toy company has produced a doll that also captures the eyes of children.
Read this lesson about Barbie, the most famous doll, turning 50.
http://www.english-online.at/hobbies/barbie/barbie-famous-doll-at-50.htm
Discussion Questions:
- Why do you think Barbie is very famous? Was the Barbie doll famous in your country during your time? How about now?
- What are some of the toys that became a very important part of your childhood?
- Why is playing important for little kids?
- Should parents be very particular with the toys that their children play with? Share your opinion.
- Do you think traditional toys will disappear in the future? Why or why not?
- Why do some adults continue to collect or enjoy toys?
2 replies on “Barbie the Most Famous Doll in the World”
1. Why do you think Barbie is very famous? Was the Barbie doll famous in your country during your time? How about now?
I don’t really know why Barbie was so famous when I was a child and if it stays that way. I remember every girl wanted to have a Barbie, if no more, and if you did not, somehow you were not part of their club. We had a similar doll, cheaper, although I do not remember the name.
2. What are some of the toys that became a very important part of your childhood?
I have never been a playing dolls type of child, so dolls were not important to me. I preferred to spend my time reading or playing with educational games, the kind that made you answer correctly or match different choices to obtain a price.
3. Why is playing important for little kids?
Playing is very important for little kids to improve a lot of senses, from motricity to imagination, and to develop other aspects of relationships, like sharing, learning to lose, thinking by themselves and solving problems.
4. Should parents be very particular with the toys that their children play with? Share your opinion.
Yes, I think parents should be aware of the toys their children are playing with. Not every toy is made for every child, there are some toys directed to older children that can be harmful for younger ones. Also, if we are referring to videogames, parents should be aware of the content (violence, language, etc.).
5. Do you think traditional toys will disappear in the future? Why or why not?
I don’t think traditions toys will disappear in the future. Surely, they will be redesigned or modified in a way that fits the needs or trends of the future generations, but the basics will remain the same.
6. Why do some adults continue to collect or enjoy toys?
Maybe they are attached to something that reminds them of their childhood, or they began collecting toys when they were younger and it became a tradition or a hobby for them.
The effort you put into practicing regularly is making a noticeable difference.
Here is how to make this paragraph sound a bit more smooth and conversational:
Great job staying committed!