Voting in the UK

Read the Fact box in task 2 on page 145. Do you understand the highlighted phrases?Compare the information in the Fact box in the section 'Voting in the UK' to the situation in your country. Listen to a radio discussion and choose the correct answer. (audio 11)What is the main reason Polly takes part in the discussion? To highlight the importance of political education in schools. To express her organisation's support for a change in European election laws. To offer political advice to young callers to the show. Dictation. Listen to an extract from the discussion and write down exactly what you hear. (audio 12) Statistics show that lowering voting age has encouraged many young Austrians to get involved in politics. We believe that 16- and 17-year-olds across Europe should have the right to vote in elections that decide their future. What language does the speaker use in the extract from the previous exercise to a) present a fact and b) give an opinion? Study Active Listening and check. a) fact: statistics showb) opinion: we believe Listen to four more extracts. Is the information presented as fact, opinion or speculation? (audio 13) 1 opinion2 opinion3 speculation4 fact Listen to the discussion again and complete each gap with one or two words. (audio 11) 1 Polly wants to decrease the minimum voting age in Europe.2 The Austrian system encourages young people to take part in politics.3 Polly says that if we provide young people with a good educationsystem and relevant information, they can understand important election issues.4 Liam suggests that letting 16- and 17-year-olds vote would help solve the problem of low turnout5 Before the Scottish independence referendum , some young people influenced the way their parents voted.6 Polly gives several examples of laws that affect 16-year-olds to justify her organisation's belief that they should be able to vote. Do you think 16- and 17-year-olds should have the right to vote in elections that decide their future?Write down several arguments for and against the question.