August 12

International Youth Day

An awareness day designated by the UN to draw attention to a given set of cultural and legal issues surrounding young people.

A group of young people talking together

Speaking Discussion

What is the biggest difference between your generation and your parents' generation?
Do you think young people today have an easier or harder life than people did 50 years ago?
Why do politicians often ignore the opinions and needs of teenagers?
At what age do you think a person should legally be allowed to vote in elections?
What is one major world problem that you hope the current youth will finally solve?

Activity 1: The Great Debate

Motion: "The voting age should be lowered to 16, as young people are the ones who will have to live with the long-term consequences of political decisions."

Split into two teams. Team A defends the maturity and intelligence of modern teenagers; Team B argues that life experience and financial independence are necessary for responsible voting.

Activity 2: Rapid Fire Sentences

Complete the sentence and justify it in 20 seconds.

"The most annoying stereotype about my generation is..."
"If I were 18 again, the first thing I would do is..."
"I think young people are better at technology than older people because..."

Key Vocabulary

Generation (Noun) All of the people born and living at about the same time, regarded collectively.
Empowerment (Noun) The process of becoming stronger and more confident, especially in controlling one's life and claiming one's rights.
Advocacy (Noun) Public support for or recommendation of a particular cause or policy.
Prejudice (Noun) Preconceived opinion that is not based on reason or actual experience.
Perspective (Noun) A particular attitude towards or way of regarding something; a point of view.

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Fluency Catalyst

Idioms of Youth: Native speakers often say "To be a late bloomer" (someone who becomes successful later in life) or "To have your whole life ahead of you" (to have many years of opportunity left). Try using these when discussing future goals!