139 Comment on one of the quotes in around 80 words. Talking about youth culture Read the following text about growing up. Do you agree with what it says? Why?/Why not? WRITING 4 LANGUAGE + READING 5 a Young living Study the green expressions. In pairs, take turns explaining what they mean. Write down three questions that can be answered by reading the text. Example: What does the author criticise about social media? Exchange your questions in small groups and answer each other’s questions. b c d “Young people need discipline and a full bookcase.” (Vivienne Westwood, 1941–2022) A “The youth of the present day are quite monstrous. They have absolutely no respect for dyed hair.” (Oscar Wilde, 1854–1900) B Discuss the quotes below with a partner. What do they say about your age group? Do you agree? Why?/Why not? SPEAKING 3 “I see no hope for the future of our people if they are dependent on the frivolous youth of today … When I was young, we were taught to be discreet and respectful of elders, but the present youth are exceedingly disrespectful.” (Hesiod, 8th century BC) C Navigating adolescence: Challenges and choices Growing up is a tricky business. Throughout history and across different cultures, finding one’s place in the adult world has always been challenging. Society has countless expectations of how its members should behave and tends to be critical of young people who don’t conform to its rules. This leads some to adopt counterculture or become part of a subculture, while others might feel like outsiders when faced with social norms. Today’s social norms may be more relaxed than they were in the past, but new challenges such as social media have emerged. Developing your identity is hard enough without constantly comparing yourself to highly polished content from around the globe. Add to that the constant threat of online bullying, which can follow you all the way into your room, and it’s no wonder that many young people struggle with their mental health. Friendships are therefore more valuable than ever. Being part of a peer group that welcomes diversity can give young people a sense of belonging and a safe space where they feel accepted. Of course, peer pressure in these groups can lead to risky behaviour and poor decisions, but then again, testing boundaries and not always playing it safe is also part of growing up. Nur zu Prüfzwecken – Eigentum des Verlags öbv
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