NATIVEUK.COM LESSONS
Annual Mooning of Amtrak
An annual, unconventional event, typically held on the second Saturday of July in Laguna Niguel, California, dedicated to a long-standing, playful tradition. It involves crowds of people gathering near the railroad tracks to display their bare backsides as trains pass by. Beyond the absurdity and the humorous nature of the spectacle, the event has grown into a unique piece of local pop culture that attracts participants from all over. It is an opportunity to witness how spontaneous, community-driven traditions can develop their own history and continue to thrive simply as a way for people to share a laugh and blow off steam.
Speaking Discussion
- What is the psychological appeal of breaking a social rule (like public nudity) when you are in a massive group of people?
- If you were a passenger on that train and saw a thousand people mooning you, would you find it hilarious or deeply offensive?
- Why is the human bottom considered so inherently funny in almost every culture?
- Should the police arrest people for doing this, or should they just let them have their one day of silly rebellion?
- Have you ever participated in a massive, silly prank with a large group of friends or strangers?
- Does the existence of this tradition prove that Americans are more free or just more immature than other cultures?
Activity 1: The Police Chief's Dilemma
The Task: You are the Chief of Police. The local government wants you to stop the Mooning of Amtrak forever because it looks unprofessional for the town.
Explain why you will or will not shut down the event. Consider the safety of the trains and the freedom of the people.
Activity 2: Rapid Fire Pranks
Complete the sentence and justify it in 20 seconds.
- "The line between a funny prank and a cruel joke is..."
- "If I were mooned by a thousand people, my first reaction would be to..."
- "The strangest tradition I have ever heard of is..."