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Level A1 – BeginnerCEFR A1
2 min
82 words
- Some members of the US Congress use personal attacks.
- They attack other members' honesty, character or thinking.
- Television and online news give more attention to attacks.
- Social media posts with insults get far more reposts.
- Frequent attackers spend less time on policy work.
- They co-sponsor fewer bills and join fewer committees.
- Researchers studied many public statements in Congress.
- The authors say this trend can hurt democracy.
- Party leaders and media could change these incentives.
- The study suggests rewarding serious policy work.
Difficult words
- honesty — Telling the truth and being fair.
- insult — Words that are rude and hurt someone.insults
- policy — Plans and actions for government work.
- committee — A group of people who make decisions.committees
- democracy — A system where people vote for leaders.
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you see personal attacks on social media?
- Do you think politicians should spend more time on policy work?
- Where do you usually get news, on TV or online?
