Подростковые субкультуры

Приложение 1

Why do teens come together in groups?

It’s common knowledge that young people tend to unite in groups. But why? Perhaps, it is lack of other ways of self-expression that attracts teens to different movements. Maybe, young people just want to rebel against their parents and existing order of society. In my opinion the main reason is the ability to share your interests and views with like-minded friends.

You know, there is a wide choice of youth movements: adult-led voluntary organizations (such as the Scouts), various political and religious organizations and, of course, fashion-led subcultures (such as Punk Rockers). So, everybody can find a group that suits him best.

Today the life of many teenagers is influenced by popular culture. The young follow certain stereotypes that are imposed on them through TV. Surely, teens want to show off, but at the same time a lot of them think about changing the world to the best.

On the other hand, we must admit that some youth cultures can be rather dangerous. For example, Skinheads are associated with the racism and the far right. Generally they are young people with low self-esteem.

In conclusion it’s worth saying that teenagers should be very careful about their choice of organization as it is a great responsibility.

Приложение 2

Приложение 3

The Goths

When the Goths appeared in the early eighties nobody thought that they would last, but they are still rather popular. They appreciate everything connected with love and death. They find loneliness and love with a tragic end beautiful. Members of this subculture usually dye their hair and nails in black. They have a fantastic makeup and sometimes pierce their lips, noses and eyebrows. But what makes them really different is their philosophy. They are into mystical things and wear silver decorations, often with religious significance. Goths like different kinds of music, but it must be full of deep sense.

The Hippies

Since World War II the media have spoken a lot about activities of various notorious youth cults, thus spreading information about them. The Hippies appeared in the late 1960s. It’s a movement of young people who opposed the accepted standards of ordinary society. They demonstrate this by dressing unusual clothes, having long hair. They live in groups and sometimes experiment with drugs. Hippies believe in peace and one of their sayings is “Make love, not war”. Today Hippies are more social active. They set up environmental groups and join charity projects.

The Pioneers

This organization was formed on May 22, 1922. A young pioneer is supposed to be a good pupil at school, be engaged in self-education and prepare to be a loyal member of the society. Its motto is “Be better”. The organization has the “Moral Code” stating its main principles. Among them are respects for parents and older people, an active social position. Membership in the organization implies rejecting the use of bad and violent language, alcohol or drug taking, racist and nationalistic ideology. They are organized in groups, each having an elected leader. They wear uniforms of white shirts and dark trousers or skirts and a triangular tie.

The Scouts

In 1908 in England Major General Robert Baden Powell founded a uniformed movement. It has spread around the world. This organization trains children in various useful skills, such as lighting a fire, cooking, fishing, and for developing their character. Scouts traditionally carry a penknife and their motto is “Be prepared”. They have a left-handed handshake and a special badge. The Scout Law embraces honour, obedience, cheerfulness, cleanliness in thought and deed. Scouting gives young people an opportunity to make new friends and have fun.

Приложение 4

Приложение 5

Self-esteem

I find the lesson interesting\ boring\ useful\ … __________________________________________________________________

It was difficult to __________________________________________________________________

In my opinion I was good at (doing something) __________________________________________________________________

I suppose I can get an excellent\ good\ satisfactory\ poor mark