Listening

Warm Up

Helpful Words and Phrases

Listen and repeat.

  1. an inmate
    • ex. The prison provides education programs for inmates.
  2. correctional
    • ex. He works at a correctional facility near the city.
  3. a theme
    • ex. The movie explores themes of friendship and courage.
  4. participation
    • ex. We encourage everyone's participation in the meeting.
  5. voluntary
    • ex. The company offers voluntary training for new employees.

Article

Read the article below and answer your tutor's questions.

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South Africa is expanding art programs in prisons to help inmates build new skills and reduce repeat crime after their release. Since 2023, the Department of Correctional Services has opened nine prison art galleries. The gallery at Leeuwkop Correctional Facility displays artwork by 34 inmates and gives visitors a chance to see their paintings and drawings. Officials say the program helps prisoners prepare for life after prison by teaching useful skills and offering ways to earn money.

Many inmates say creating art helps them feel calmer and think about their future. One inmate, Freddy Mongkoai, said painting gives him peace of mind and helps him stay focused. Program organizers say many artworks show themes of home, family, culture, and hope. Participation is voluntary and encourages inmates to express their thoughts and feelings instead of testing artistic talent.

The artwork is sold to the public, with prices based on the size and detail of each piece. Money from sales buys art supplies and provides small payments to the artists. Officials believe these programs can help former inmates find jobs, manage money, and build better lives after release.

This material was based on an article by The Associated Press.

Photo Credits: The Associated Press

Discussion

Choose a topic and discuss the questions with your tutor.

Creating Art

  • Many inmates say creating art helps them feel calmer and think about their future. Why do you think inmates feel that way about art? Discuss.
  • How do you think correctional facilities can help inmates develop their interest in art? Discuss.
  • Do you like creating artworks? Why or why not? Discuss.

Programs for Inmates

  • Officials say the program helps inmates prepare for life after prison by teaching useful skills and offering ways to earn money. Why do you think it's important for inmates to learn different ways to earn money? Discuss.
  • Aside from offering art programs to inmates, what other programs do you think can help them earn money (ex. learning computer skills, learning some cooking skills)? Discuss.
  • If you could start a program for inmates, what kind of program would you want? Discuss.