B2 – Upper Intermediate
One of the most stressful stage in a young student’s life is trying to get into their dream university. In the recent years, many universities in the US have made this test optional for their applicants. But that doesn’t mean the process has become easier and faster, especially in elite universities. One factor that they allegedly highly consider is the tie the applicant has with its alum.
Let’s listen to the audio and read the transcript to know more about this seemingly discriminating practice in Ivy League universities in the US.
https://learningenglish.voanews.com/a/activists-challenge-harvard-s-legacy-admissions/7168000.html
Vocabulary Questions:
- Define “legacy admission“. “A civil rights group is taking legal action against legacy admissions at Harvard University.” Use it in a sentence.
- What does “bearing” mean here, “Your family’s last name and the size of your bank account are not a measure of merit, and should have no bearing on the college admissions process.”? Use bearing’ in your own sentence and give two synonyms.
- What is the meaning of the phrase “to give a lift to someone“? “They note that the Supreme Court’s ruling says colleges must ignore the race of applicants but schools can still give a lift to the children of alumni and donors.” Use it in a sentence.
Discussion Questions:
- What is your opinion on legacy admission at Harvard? Do you think the practice discriminates against students of color? Explain your stand.
- Why are opponents of this practice against it? Give their reasons.
- Is private donation to public universities allowed in your country? If yes, Do you think it should be forbidden?
- What are the college admission policies in your country?
- Share your thoughts on this, “Your family’s last name and the size of your bank account are not a measure of merit, and should have no bearing on the college admissions process.“.