Do Teenagers Still Need Classical Literature in the Age of TikTok?

 

Task 1. Prediction

Look at the title. In pairs, discuss your ideas. Write your predictions in the gaps.

-Two positive effects of reading classical literature for teenagers:

1)

2)

-Two possible problems that can arise with reading classics today

1)

2)

 

Task 2. Vocabulary matching

Match the nine words with their correct definitions (A-I):

 

1)    Classic

2)    Empathy

3)    Relevant

4)    Plot

5)    Character

6)    Page-turner

7)    To relate to

8)    Old-fashioned

9)    Chapter

 

Definitions (A-I)

A. the main events of a book, film or story

B. a person in a book, film or story

C. a famous book that is still read after many years

D. a book that is so exciting you want to keep reading

E. the ability to understand how someone else feels

F. connected to what is happening now; important today

G. a section of a book with its own number or title

H. to feel that you understand someone's situation

I. not modern; from an earlier time          

 

Your answers:

1-…

2-…

3-…

4-…

5-…

6-..,

7-…

8-…

9-…

 

 

Do Teens Still Need Classical Literature in the Age of TikTok?

Many people believe that classical literature is dead for teenagers. With YouTube, Instagram and Netflix, who has time for 500-page novels from the 19th century? However, reading classics can actually offer unique benefits that modern media cannot replace.

First, classics help teenagers develop empathy. When you read “Les Misérables” by Victor Hugo, you follow the life of Jean Valjean, a poor man trying to become good. You feel his pain and his hope. Studies show that reading literary fiction improves your ability to understand other people's emotions. Second, classics are surprisingly relevant today. “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen talks about family pressure, social class, and marriage — topics that still matter to many young people.

Of course, there are problems. The language of old books can be very difficult. A sentence by Charles Dickens might be ten lines long! In addition, the plots are often slow. A modern teenager is used to short videos and fast action. Reading 50 pages of description can feel boring.

Nevertheless, many schools have found solutions. Audiobooks help with difficult language. Graphic novel versions make the story easier to follow. And some teachers only assign one chapter per week, not the whole book.

In conclusion, classical literature is not dead for Gen Z. It just needs a little help from technology and good teaching.

 

Task 3. Scanning

Read the text quickly and find the numbers. Write the numbers.

1.    How many pages long are many classical novels? 

Your answer:

2.    How many lines can a sentence by Charles Dickens have?
Your answer:

3.    How many chapters per week do some teachers assign?

Your answer:

 

 

Task 4. True / False

Read the text again. Choose the right option: T (True) or F (False).

1. The author believes classical literature is completely useless for modern teenagers. T/F       

2. Reading literary fiction can help you understand other people's emotions better. T/F   

3. “Pride and Prejudice” is about topics that are no longer important today. T/F

4. Audiobooks are mentioned as a solution to difficult language. T/F         

5. The author thinks classical literature has no future for Generation Z. T/F

 

 

Task 5. Discussion (in small groups)

Use the text and your own experience. Discuss:

1.    Have you ever read a classical novel? Which one? Did you like it or not? Why?

2.    Do you agree that reading classics can improve empathy? Why / why not?

3.    What is more useful for a teenager today: reading “War and Peace” or watching educational YouTube videos? Explain.

4.    The text mentions solutions (audiobooks, graphic novels, one chapter per week). Which solution would work best for you?

 

Task 6. Writing task

Imagine you are writing a short post for a student blog called "Teen Readers".

Write a short blog post of 80–100 words on the topic below.

“Should teenagers read classical literature in the 21st century?”

In your post, make sure to:

• State your opinion clearly in the first sentence.
• Give two reasons to support your opinion.
• Use at least two linking words (however, therefore, for example, in addition, although).
• Write 80–100 words.

 Good luck!