1) Read the article on the opposite side. Then, try to list as many positive and negative adjectives associated with the word politician. Use your own ideas or ideas from the article. + - Have you ever wondered what a politician is really like? They're the folks who run our countries and make all the big decisions for us. Some of us might think they're a bit sketchy, but others believe they're totally awesome. So, what's the deal with these people? Well, a typical politician can be quite charming, persuasive, and full of big ideas for the future. They know how to get people excited and they're pretty smart cookies. Plus, they've got tons of experience, which helps them make good choices for the country. But let's not forget about the bad stuff. Some politicians are shady as hell. They're only in it for the power and money, and they don't give a damn about the people they're supposed to be serving. They'll do whatever it takes to get ahead, even if it means breaking the law. So what makes a good politician? First off, they need to be honest and trustworthy. We need to be able to believe what they say and know that they're not just spitting a bunch of lies. They also need to be able to work with different types of people, even if they don't agree with them. A good politician is decisive and doesn't shy away from tough decisions. To sum it up, politicians aren't all bad. There are some really great ones out there who are doing important work for their country. But we need to hold them accountable and call out the ones who are up to no good. If we can do that, then maybe we'll start to see some real change happening. 2) “Politikům se nevěří, politikové se kontrolují.” Karel Kryl - How would you translate this quote to Czech? - To what political event could this be linked to? - Do you agree with him? What are some ways to monitor politicians? 3) Read the following idioms and try to guess their meaning. Then, read the short dialogues on the opposite side and try to match them with each idiom. There is one extra idiom. To pull strings My guess: The pot calling the kettle black My guess: The ball is in your court My guess: To be on the fence My guess: To play politics My guess: To have a finger in every pie My guess: 4) When you finish, talk with your partner about real-life examples of these idioms. __________________ A: "Hey, how did you manage to get that job? I heard it was pretty competitive." B: "Well, let's just say I knew someone who knew someone who worked there. They put in a good word for me and helped me get my foot in the door." A: "Ah, I see. So you had some help from the inside, huh?" B "Yeah, you could say that. It definitely helps to know people in high places sometimes." __________________ A: "I don't know which candidate I should vote for in the upcoming election." B: "Really? I thought you were a supporter of the incumbent. A: "I was, but I've been reading more about the opposing candidate's platform and I'm not sure anymore." B: "Well, you should make a decision soon. The election is only a few weeks away." __________________ A: "Hey, did you hear about the new housing project that's starting up in our district?" B: "Yeah, I heard about it. My uncle works for the construction company that got the contract." A: "Oh, really? Seems like your family has a lot of connections around here." B: "Yeah, my family likes to stay involved in local politics and business. We try to have some influence in every project that happens in our community." __________________ A: "I can't believe the mayor is accusing the city council of corruption. He's been caught taking bribes before!" B: "I know, it's ridiculous. He's just trying to shift the blame onto someone else, so he doesn't get in trouble again." A: "It's like the thief calling someone else a criminal." B: "Exactly. He's in no position to be pointing fingers." __________________ A: "I've made my offer, but I need to know where you stand on this issue." B: "I appreciate the proposal, but I have some concerns I need to address first." A: "I understand, but time is running out. The decision is yours to make." B: "Okay, I'll take some time to consider it and get back to you." 20 Positive Adjectives Associated with Politician: 1. Charismatic 2. Diplomatic 3. Persuasive 4. Inspirational 5. Visionary 6. Honest 7. Decisive 8. Compassionate 9. Intelligent 10. Strategic 11. Articulate 12. Collaborative 13. Assertive 14. Experienced 15. Knowledgeable 16. Trustworthy 17. Skilled 18. Confident 19. Pragmatic 20. Respectful 20 Negative Adjectives Associated with Politician: 1. Corrupt 2. Deceitful 3. Untrustworthy 4. Manipulative 5. Greedy 6. Arrogant 7. Self-serving 8. Dishonest 9. Power-hungry 10. Incompetent 11. Divisive 12. Disrespectful 13. Inflexible 14. Opportunistic 15. Controversial 16. Two-faced 17. Egotistical 18. Irresponsible 19. Cynical 20. Unethical