B2 – Upper Intermediate
In the 1900’s, Austrian psychotherapist Alfred Adler formed a theory that the development of our personalities is influenced by our birth order within our families. He proposed that due to this personality development, consequential life outcomes could follow.
Let’s read the article and know more about birth order and its possible effects on one’s personality.
http://headsupenglish.com/index.php/advanced-english-students/advanced-mini-lessons/160-birth-order
Vocabulary Questions:
- What does the adverb “profoundly” mean? “The order in which a person is born profoundly affects development.” Use it in your own sentence.
- What does the word “indelible” mean in this context? “ It leaves an indelible impression which influences how the individual deals with love…” Use it in a sentence.
- Define “hogwash“. “Quite a number of psychologists view birth order and its effects on personality as utter hogwash.” Give two synonyms and use it in a sentence.
Discussion Questions:
- What is birth order? What is your birth order?
- According to the article, how does birth order affect one’s development?
- In your opinion, what shapes one’s personality?
- Share your thoughts on this statement, “It’s often said that first-borns tend to be more conservative, as well as focus on achievement. The youngest sibling tends towards rebelliousness.”