B2 – Upper Intermediate
In this unique school in Thailand, teachers take a back seat. Students are given the responsibilities instead. From managing finances to volunteering, children are tasked to do things that adults are supposed to do in regular school environment.
Listen to this audio and read the transcript about this out-of-the-box approach to rural Thai education.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/6-minute-english_2024/ep-240711
Vocabulary Questions:
- What is the meaning of the idiom “call the shots“? “In this programme we’ll be hearing about the Bamboo School, a unique school where the children call the shots – they have the power to make the decisions.” Give one synonym or similar expression and use ‘call the shots’ in your own sentence.
- What does the phrase “real world experience” mean? “My old school wasn’t like this. It was just classes and then home. Here, I get to try so many things, gain real world experience, and work on my leadership skills with my friends.” Give one synonym or similar expression and use ‘real world experience’ in your own sentence.
- What does “to do something in return” mean? “Yes, we just heard that kids go to the Bamboo School for free but do something in return.” Give one synonym or similar expression and use ‘to do something in return’ in your own sentence.
Discussion Questions:
- What are the young students’ responsibilities in Bamboo School in Thailand?
- What do you think of a school where it’s the children who call the shots?
- What advantages do this school management system have on its young pupils? What are the disadvantages?
- What impact/effects could giving school children this kind/amount of trust have on them?
- Aside from this, how do you think children can gain real world experience?
- Do you think young kids should do community service? Share your insights.