B2 – Upper Intermediate
Passport photos are notable for their strictly enforced rules and standards, frequently perplexing travelers as to why they must uphold a stern face without looking happy. While it may appear to be an utterly pointless regulation, there are justifiable reasons for this seemingly unusual mandate.
Learn more about the reasons for not being allowed to grin in passport photos, taking into account things like standardization, identity verification, and facial recognition technology, by clicking the link.
https://www.huffpost.com/entry/why-cant-you-smile-passport-photo_l_64775504e4b0b4444c7c29f9
Vocabulary Questions:
- What does “grand scheme of things” mean in the sentence, “But these kinds of rules are still relatively new in the grand scheme of things.”? Use this idiom in your own sentence.
- What does “not pass muster” mean in the sentence, “Showing your teeth won’t pass muster ― and apparently it’s a matter of border security.”? Use this idiom in your own sentence.
- What does “in effect” mean in the sentence, “Photos with exaggerated expressions can make it more difficult to readily identify the passport holder,” he explained, noting that the agency’s photo requirements have “been in effect for United States passports for decades.”? Use this phrase in your own sentence.
Discussion Questions:
- Can you explain the reasoning behind the decision to have a neutral expression in passport photos instead of allowing smiles?
- How does facial recognition technology play a role in the requirement to not smile in passport photos?
- Are there any alternative methods or technologies being explored that could overcome the limitations of smiling in passport photos? Tell me more.
- Are there any specific guidelines or regulations regarding passport photos in different countries that deviate from the general practice of not smiling? Please share.