B1 – Intermediate
In the past, a large number of children were placed with families in other countries, particularly in the United States, where approximately 82,000 children were adopted. However, China has recently announced that children should no longer be sent abroad for adoption and should instead stay within the country.
Listen to this audio and read the transcript about prohibiting international adoptions.
https://www.newsinlevels.com/products/china-ends-foreign-adoptions-level-3/
Vocabulary Questions:
- What is the meaning of “to align with something”? “This change aligns with international agreements and only allows the adoption of stepchildren or close relatives.” Use this phrase in a sentence.
- What does the idiom “to be open to something” mean? “Social attitudes are changing, and many families are now more open to adoption, especially if having biological children is difficult.” Use this phrase in your own sentence.
- What does “sentiment” mean here, “There is a growing sentiment that Chinese children should remain in their home country due to cultural differences.” Use this word in your own sentence.
Discussion Questions:
- What do you think of China’s decision to end foreign adoptions?
- Is adopting children from other countries common in your country? Why or why not?
- What do you think about the adoption system for foreign children in your country?
- Should the adoption process of foreign children be more or less difficult than it is now?
- Should people be able to decide what type of children they want to adopt? For example: boy or girl, hair color, age, ethnicity etc. Explain your opinion.