Page 25 - Real English 2024 Book 8

WHAT I WISH I KNEW ABOUT SCHOOL

Marty Wilson is an Australian stand-up comedian and author. A gifted motivational speaker,
he has a unique talent to keep the audience laughing out loud while leading them on a path
towards a deeper understanding of his powerful messages for life.

A Reflect

A1 Based on your reading of the text, think carefully about the points given below and form your
own views.
1. The writer was doing well at school with an absolute minimum of effort, and he continued
to do so for the next twelve years. He took his success for granted. It seems like such a
good thing, but the effect it had on his life in the long run was disastrous.
 Can you think of other such good things in life which people take for granted? What
difference does an attitude like this make to people’s lives?
 What is a good thing in your life which you could work on to make a big change for
the better?
2. The writer thought it was beneath him to study hard, and ‘way cool’ to mock anyone who
did. Just like the writer, some students think they need not study hard and mock hard-
working students in their class.
 According to you what makes them do so?
 Have you ever spoken of or mocked someone with contempt? What was their
reaction? Have you yourself been mocked scornfully? What was your reaction?

3. People the writer never gave a chance at school turned out to be great people.
 Can you think of a famous story by Aesop which illustrates the writer’s observation?
 What can we conclude from the writer’s experience?

4. The writer realized much later that it is not your marks compared to other students’ that
matter, but your marks compared to how well you could have done.

 Are you as a student putting in your best effort in whatever you do?
 Reflect on your habits and attitudes formed so far, as you prepare for your exams.
Will they help you in the future to get you the life that you want?

B Understand

B1 Choose the most appropriate answer.
1. The title ‘What I Wish I Knew about School’ reveals the writer’s feeling of

a) nostalgia. c) indifference.
b) regret. d) sadness.

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