Definition and purpose
What is a gap year?
A break between high school and university, used for travel, work or volunteering.
Which royal took a gap year and went to Africa?
Prince Harry.
In which decade did the gap year become popular?
1970s.
Give one advantage of taking a gap year.
Discovering new cultures / taking a break / gaining experience.
Is taking a gap year free?
No, it can be very expensive.
Give two things people usually do during a gap year.
Travel, au pair, humanitarian work, language learning, earning money...
What did Emma Watson do during her gap year?
She rested, prepared for university, and did humanitarian work.
She rested, prepared for university, and did humanitarian work.
Name two countries where gap years are common today.
UK, Australia, US, Spain...
Give one disadvantage of taking a gap year.
Expensive / risk of not returning to school.
Where does the concept come from?
Great Britian.
Why do some students take a gap year before university?
To take a break, gain experience, mature, or reflect on their goals.
Name two celebrities mentioned in the text.
Malia Obama and Benedict Cumberbatch – they made the gap year more popular.
What kind of people took ‘grand tours’ in the 17th century?
Aristocrats to explore Europe.
In high school, who think that it is risky for students to take gap years?
Educators.
How much can a gap year cost?
15000$
What do students hope to gain from a gap year?
Life experience, independence, cultural understanding, professional skills.
Which city did Prince Harry took his gap year in?
Lesotho.
What change happened in 2012 regarding gap years in the US?
The idea gained popularity thanks to media and high-profile examples.
How can a gap year be beneficial for mental health?
It gives students time to rest, reflect, and avoid burnout.
Describe the perfect profile of a student for a gap year. (3 adjectives)
Patient, motivated, hard working, outgoing...
How can a gap year influence someone's future?
It can shape career choices, improve resumes, develop adaptability and soft skills.
Why is it important to mention celebrities when talking about gap years?
They influence public opinion and make the idea more appealing to students and parents.
1970’s / 17th, 18th, early 19th century / 2012 / 2017
Why might parents be worried about their child taking a gap year?
They might fear their child won’t return to school, will waste time/money, will get hurt or home sick.
Give two conditions you have to fill before taking a gap year.
Having money and being already registered in a universrity.