Barcelona has mostly flat paths and numerous bicycle lanes. It is no wonder that different forms of single-person vehicles are emerging in this city. The most popular one is the e-scooter, locally known as “patinete”. However, these e-scooters and other VMP’s have increasingly become a problem in the city recently.
Let’s read the article and know more about problems brought about by VMP’s and the new traffic laws imposed on them.
Vocabulary Questions:
- Define the word “hefty“. “Barcelona has imposed a hefty 500 euro fine for anyone caught riding an e-scooter on the pavement, or without a helmet.”. Use it in a sentence and give two synonyms.
- What does the phrase “to flood something“? “Barcelona is a vibrant, blossoming city that continues to flood the Spanish landscape with culture and historical significance, attracting hundreds of thousands of tourists per year.” Use it in your own sentence.
- What does the phrase “opt for” mean? “However, the city has built a damaging reputation for being home to countless thieves, who have recently opted for the electric scooter as their preferred method of transport.” Use it in a sentence.
Discussion Questions:
- What are your thoughts on the new e-scooter rules in Barcelona?
- Do you use an e-scooter? Would you consider buying one? Why or why not?
- What personal mobility vehicles are common where you live? Do they ever cause problems?
- How pedestrian-friendly is your town or city is?