Coach Luke

ESL Teacher
Brighton (UK) and online
Samantha: "I am strongly against the idea of prisons because they don't work. My brother was in and out of jail for years, and it never made him a better person. Instead, he was just more hardened and bitter every time he came out."
Emily: "I don't know what to think about prisons. On the one hand, I understand why we have them, but on the other hand, they seem to make things worse instead of better. My cousin was put in jail, and he came out with even more mental health problems than when he went in."
Tom: "I think prisons are necessary because some people need to be punished for their crimes. My friend's car was stolen, and the thief was caught and put in prison. It may not have solved everything, but at least there was some justice."
Mike: "Prisons are absolutely disgusting! People are treated like animals in there, and it doesn't solve anything. My uncle was in jail for a while, and even though he wasn't there for very long, it was still a traumatic experience that he'll never forget.
1. What are some of the main reasons why people end up in prison?
2. How do you think prisons can be improved to better serve their purpose?
3. Do you believe that rehabilitation should be a primary goal of the prison system? Why or why not?
4. In your opinion, what is the most effective way to reduce crime rates and prevent people from ending up in prison?
5. Can you name any famous individuals who have spent time in prison? What were they convicted of?
6. How does the prison system differ between countries around the world?
7. Should non-violent offenders be given alternative forms of punishment instead of being sent to prison? Why or why not?
8. What impact do you think having a criminal record has on an individual's life after they leave prison?
9. Are there any ethical concerns surrounding the use of private prisons for profit?
10. How do you think society views individuals who have been released from prison?