B2 – Upper Intermediate
Most of us hope for the best for our cities or countries, but often times, it feels so difficult to know what we can do to help spark changes in our own communities. Many people feel disconnected from politics and politicians.
Perhaps it is worth understanding what it really takes to be an upstanding citizen in order for us to know our roles and duties. This way, we might be able to start the changes that we long for.
Listen to this audio and read the transcript about what it means to be a good citizen.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/6-minute-english_2025/ep-251009
Vocabulary Questions:
- What does “erosion in the trust” mean? “We have seen a quick erosion in the trust of the population in the democratic institutions, such as the National Parliament, such as the government in office.” Use the idiom in a sentence. Give a synonym or similar expression.
- What does “to hold someone accountable” mean? “MyPolis mirrors the political activities that children will need as adult citizens – things like voting and holding politicians accountable.” Use the phrase in a sentence. Give a synonym or similar expression.
- What does “the thing that strikes someone” mean? “It’s good to know that this is happening in other places, but the thing that also really strikes me here is that politicians are actually listening to these kids and taking them seriously, giving them answers, because politicians, as we know, can be hard to pin down.” Use the idiom in a sentence. Give a synonym or similar expression.
Discussion Questions:
- In your own opinion, what makes a good citizen? How do you try to be one?
- What do you think will happen if the gap between democratic institutions and young people continues to grow?
- Share your thoughts on this: Being a good citizen goes beyond following the rules and paying taxes. It is to improve the place where you live.
- What do you think about Portugal’s MyPolis? Do you think other countries should follow suit, including yours?
- In your country, what projects does the government have to help young people re-engage with their citizenship?