Have you ever thought about life behind bars?
Get your students talking about prisons as they explore this topic by answering questions and participating in group discussions. The language in this poll is suitable for intermediate+ English learners.
Preview
1. Did you know that the US has nearly two million people behind bars?
- Yes, I knew that.
- No, I didn't know that, but I'm not surprised.
- No, I didn't know that and I am shocked.
Keywords
Do you know these words?
- inmate
- sentence
- solitary confinement
- rehabilitation
- recidivism
Agree or Disagree?
2. Inmates should be required to work.
- Agree
- Disagree
3. If inmates work, they should be paid.
- Agree
- Disagree
4. An inmate's sentence should be reduced for good behavior.
- Agree
- Disagree
Elaborate
5. Should solitary confinement be used as a form of punishment in prisons?
- No, solitary confinement should never be used because it is cruel and inhumane.
- No, because it can have severe negative effects on mental health.
- No, because it violates human rights.
- Yes, it can be used to deter violent behavior.
- Yes, but only for extreme cases.
6. What is the most effective type of rehabilitation programs in prisons?
- vocational training programs
- educational programs
- substance abuse treatment programs
- mental health counseling programs
- arts and creative expression programs
- anger management classes
- other
7. What is the biggest cause of recidivism?
- lack of employment opportunities
- substance abuse and addiction issues
- inability to obtain housing due to discrimination and stigma
- mental health issues
- other