Topic: Prison Uniforms

Title: Nice Outfit, but We're Still Convicts

Source: The Independent / Reuters

Date: Monday, April 4, 2005

Level: Intermediate

Click for article.

Vocabulary

Try to guess what these words mean from reading the article.
If you need help, check out OneLook Dictionary Search.

New words you will see in this article:

abuse
aggressive
bedding
clash(ing)
convict(s)
criticize(d)
fatal
inmate(s)
mint
morale
outfit(s)
pale
psychologist(s)
swell(ing)
uniform(s)

Talking Points

With your tutor, conversation partners, or classmates, you may wish to discuss the following:

Do you think certain colors can have an effect on people's moods?

Should inmates be given special treatment in what they wear?

Does reducing aggressiveness among prisoners have advantages?
What would they be?

Should society be concerned about the psychological condition of its prison population?

For More Practice

Pretend you are a psychologist.
Make a case for changing the color of prisoners' uniforms.

As a taxpayer, argue that new uniforms for inmates would be a waste of money.

What do you think is the best way to resolve conflicts among prisoners?

Pretend you are a judge.
Listen to both sides of an argument and decide who's right.