B1 – Intermediate
Israel’s current government wants its Supreme Court to have less power. Some politicians started discussing about a new law to do this. However, not everyone is in favor of this law.
The Supreme Court is part of the judiciary system. In most countries, there are three equal and separate branches of government. This should guarantee the other two branches would not be able to control too much power.
Listen to this audio and read the transcript about about this proposed amendment on Israel’s legal system.
https://www.newsinlevels.com/products/israel-politics-changes-level-2/
Vocabulary Questions:
- What is the meaning of the word “bill” in this context? “Israeli lawmakers started discussing a bill on Sunday to limit the powers of the Supreme Court.” Give a synonym and use “bill” in a sentence.
- What is the meaning of “hold” in this context? “Protests against the government caused Netanyahu to stop the plan in March and hold talks with opposition parties.” Give a synonym and use “hold” in a sentence.
- What does “to rule against someone/something” mean? “The new bill will be a less extreme version of the previous proposals which wanted to greatly reduce the Supreme Court’s power to rule against the government.” Use it in a sentence.
Discussion Questions:
- What do you think are the consequences of weakening Israel’s Supreme court?
- What laws in your country had been amended? Do you agree with these changes? Why or why not?
- What are the main branches of government in your country? What are their functions?
- Do you know any countries at present where its leaders have total control? What do you think of these countries?
- What are some changes in your country politics that allowed for corruption?