B1 — Intermediate
Loud music can be especially annoying during a bus or train ride. In Singapore, passengers who play loud music will be fined because it can disturb other commuters and make the bus uncomfortable. Some people just want to use this time to rest, read, work, or simply enjoy a quiet journey.
Fines could encourage passengers to use headphones or keep the volume at a reasonable level. However, the rules should be clearly explained and applied fairly to everyone. By respecting other passengers, everyone can have a more peaceful and pleasant bus ride.
Read the article about Singapore’s fines for playing loud music on public transport.
https://breakingnewsenglish.com/2609/260928-loud-music-public-transport.html
Vocabulary Questions:
- What does “peeve” mean? “The loud music from other passengers on public transport has become a peeve for many people who want to travel in quiet.” Use the word in a sentence. Give a synonym.
- What does “to blare out” mean? “Singapore has introduced new fines of up to S$500 for blaring out music on buses that annoys other passengers.” Use the phrase in a sentence. Give a synonym.
- What does “littering“ mean? “The new penalties will also be applied to other anti-social behaviour, such as putting feet on seats, littering, and eating or drinking on buses.” Use the word in a sentence. Give a synonym.
Discussion Questions:
- Do you think people who play loud music on public transport should be fined? Why or why not?
- Have you ever experienced someone playing loud music on public transport? How did you feel? What did you do?
- How can we balance personal freedom with the comfort of other passengers?
- What other behaviors should be prohibited on public transport to make the trip more comfortable for everyone?
- Could strict rules about loud music create problems for some passengers? Share your point of view.