In 2016, a proposal was made at the European Parliament to give away free Interrail tickets to all Europeans on their 18th birthday. The project was rejected in its initial form because it was too expensive but a new, lighter version was passed and the first 15.000 teens travelled all over the Old Continent by train for free thanks to the scheme in 2018.
But why should Europe pay for a bunch of teenagers' holidays? Can't you think of any good reasons? You can read more about it here.
Watch the following video and answer the questions on the worksheet:
Imagine you have a personal vlog - also known as videoblog - with a friend. Create a short video about the #DiscoverEU programme. Use the questions below to help you. Make sure you have read and understood all the information and the participation requirements on the #Discover EU website.
- Present the #DiscoverEU proposal. What is it about?
- In your opinion, is it a good idea? How do you think free Interrail tickets can help teenagers make their European identity stronger? Think of at least 3 or 4 different reasons.
- Would you like to participate in the programme when you turn 18 years old? Why (not)?
- Would you like to travel alone? If not, who would you travel with? Explain. Remember you can travel solo or in groups of up to 5 people.
- What European country or countries would you like to visit? Remember you can choose up to 4 cross-border countries - in the same area - for your route.
- What European Cultural Heritage site would you include on your route? Why? You can find the complete list here.
- How would you tell other people about your trip? Think of at least three different things you could do to report on your travel experience.
Your video must include photographs and music at some points. Remember to include your names at the end and also use the hashtag #DiscoverEU to promote the idea!
When you finish, you can submit your videos on Flipgrid, as explained in class.
