Speaking calendar/Saint Andrew's Day
November 30th · Identity & Culture

Saint Andrew's Day

Saint Andrew's Day is the feast day of Saint Andrew, the patron saint of Scotland, and is celebrated annually on November 30th. It is a day to celebrate Scottish culture, including its food, music, and traditions. Today, we debate the modern relevance of regional pride and national identity, the importance of maintaining cultural heritage in a globalised world, and how traditions help to build a sense of community. What does it mean to be scottish today?

SPEAKING LESSONB1 / B2Discussion · Vocabulary · Activities
01 / LET’S TALK

Speaking Discussion

  1. How important is it for a person to have a strong sense of national or regional identity? Does it help or hinder social cohesion?
  2. In a world that is becoming more globalised every day, do you think that unique cultural traditions are at risk of disappearing?
  3. What is a traditional celebration or festival from your own region that you are particularly proud of? Why is it important to you?
  4. Do you think that national pride can sometimes lead to exclusion and division? How can we celebrate identity in a positive way?
  5. How does your country or region promote its culture and heritage to the rest of the world? Is it effective?
  6. In your opinion, what is the connection between cultural traditions and a sense of belonging and community?
02 / PUT IT INTO PRACTICE

Activity 1: The culture festival Pitch

The Task: You are a Cultural Ambassador. You need to plan a new festival to celebrate the unique heritage of your region.

What are the main events, and how will you attract visitors from around the world?

Activity 2: Rapid Fire Sentences

Complete the sentence and justify it in 20 seconds.

  • "The best way to celebrate culture is..."
  • "I think national identity is..."
  • "In my opinion, regional pride is..."