Lakshmi, India
Political issues discussion is a must in class today as the students are more informed about it from outside sources than the teacher would think. Discussing freely would give them a better perspective about the issue. The teacher can always make the students better politicians for the future.

Sohi, Iran
I really agree that we should discuss the politics, I think that is a way to help the students mind to understand the politics better in terms of what is going on around the world, because politics sometimes changes to the games of governments in some countries.

Guillermo D. Basualdo, Pinamar, Argentina
In my opinion, politics is a very important point in our lives, not only in the classroom but everywhere. We are always in permanent contact with other people, inclusive, when we are not interested in getting in touch with someone else or when we think it is not necessary for us to do it. Interacting with people takes you to have many different kind of relationships and this will be determined by the policy established between the interlocutors. Sometimes the interlocutors are very polite, so it is not necessary to talk about policy but in a classroom things are different. Children are also learning how to interact with the others and in this process it would be important to help them to incorporate the policy in their relationships in order to be rational people in the future and have present one of the most important things of human being.

George Steed, Poland
I have read all the comments. Politics is concerned with government. That can be the United Nations or a first grade classroom. Early on students need to learn the mechanics that rule/govern their lives. The world today and many personal environments are in turmoil because of disagreements about how it should be managed. We can see and read about violent bloody disagreements without end and agreements settled peaceably by a single vote!

George Steed, Poland
The discussion should be appropriate for the grade level. The teacher or discussion leader must be able to present all sides of the topic. Participation rules need be in writing and understood by all. This is a good time to teach political vocabulary.

Marija Liudvika Rutkauskaite, Lithuania
I have reiterated my vote for the discussion of politics in the classroom. In addition to my previous comment, I can say that, in politically and economically sensitive country, a teacher might have to steer the discussion so that it "generates more light than heat". There are no more dangers. Politics is a major resource in language learning and, using the best periodicals, the students can advance considerably in their knowledge of English. It is also an involving topics as many young people are sincerely interested in what happens around them. Thank you.

Prabha Muthukrishnan, India
Yes, political issues must be discussed in the class room. It is a subject quite familiar with the pupils and therefore they will all eagerly take part in the discussion. This will improve their verbal skill and general knowledge. It will also make them aware of the happenings in their nation.

Mangalaprathaban Muralidharan, India
The teacher has to help a student understand the current global scenario which can mould him realize the need to be competent.I would say that a political issue can be discussed as long as it doesn't bring forth any prejudices or nepotist agendas to the classroom.

Marcela, Mexico
I truly believe that a hearty debate is an excellent way to encourage students to use and improve their English. You can have them research at previously stated reliable sources and help them sort their information carefully, so they can use it easily to back their opinions. Politics are also essential when preparing students for UN simulations...so YES! Many students are in desperate need of social awareness in order to become the great citizens they are meant to be. If you want to make a difference you must know exactly where and how you stand.

Derya, Turkey
Discussing of political issues in the classroom is very fruitful for pupils. Because in this way these pupil realize that they have a viev of world, so they feel responsible for humanity.

Amira Rana, Pakistan
Discussing the political issues in the classrooms may be helpful to promote students' spoken language because discussing current issues is a good warm up technique in language classroom.

Jose Luis Borja, Mexico
Even though it is an endless subject and you almost never get the whole people to come to an agreement, it is indeed a great subject for discussion and express opinions and pros or cons, and students can practice a lot...

Arlene, USA
I absolutely do believe politics belongs in the classroom with the teacher only serving the role of facilitator. However, there are places where my students or I can be arrested, harassed by law enforcement agencies, removed from school,
labeled "enemy combatant", deported, or imprisoned for expressing "anti-establishment ideas" -- especially if one happens to be Muslim.
Right or wrong, I weigh the perceived benefits and the perceived costs before facilitating such discussions.

Geoffrey Davidson; India
In a demicratic country, politics is part of the life of people. Whatever change we want to bring it has to come through polictics i mean politicians. It is better to inform the students about politics. But the teacher should be careful not to impose his ideas on the students. They should be made to understand different idealogy of politics.

Devrim , Turkey
Being a teacher, teachers must be clear and trustful for their students so we have to explain what students are asking to us whether it's about education or politic situation or about the other topics .

Lydia, PRC
Being a student, I think anyone has the right to talk about anything they are interested in. It doesn't matter if it worth or not, but how much time we shall spend on that topic realy depends on teachers. I do believe students should learn broadly.

Yony Cárdenas, Peru
I totally agree. We should discuss about politics in the classroom because it could give us a better understanding of our situation, but we shouldn't forget, if we do it, we need to be aware about what is going on in politics in our local and global community. Without being well informed, it is impossible to give an opinion. Teachers need to move from traditional ways of teaching into new ways of teaching in which the students are taught, not only English concepts, but also are prepared to be good citizens of tomorrow. This is, we need to be aware of global curriculum in which 8 different concepts are managed: Human right, Diversity, Interdependence, Global citizenship, Conflict resolution, Social Justice, Values and perceptions and Sustainable development. The world is changing so fast that we need to provide our students with skills that enable them to communicate properly.

Mangalam, India
Discussing politics is one way of teaching skills, such as, negotiations, diplomacy, tolerance, facing challenges & crises and interpersonal skills. In India one learns this in large families, hence using politics to enhance these skills is a good idea. It keeps the students in touch with current happenings and helps in decision making too!

Flor de Lis Igualada Muñoz, Spain
Politic discussion give us a good oppotunity so that students can improve their comunication abilities. It's a topic that everybody knows, but it's a bit dangerous, too.

Sonia Singh, India
Yes politics could be discussed in class depending on the age group and level of maturity of the students.It not only enhances their power of expression and thought, but also enlightens them about various issues being faced by the country.At the same time I also feel that older children can view situations, policies etc in a broader perspective without any malice or bias.

Assumpta, Spain
On the one hand I think it's important for teenagers to know what is happening in the world so it's good to speak about politics but always in the case students are mature enough to do it, otherwise it can create conflicts and it's wothless.

Elisabeth Castillo, Spain
Politics are part of our lives.Thus, it is important for students to understand what's going on in the world they live in. However there are many touchy issues that it'd be better not to use in class debates/discussions.

Carme, Catalonia, Spain
I think it is important that sts learn to see politics as a course of action in a sense that it is important to be aware that certain actions or visions lead to consequences. This bring everyday life into "politics".

Nuria, Spain
I think it is high time students have responsiblity and one of the issues which is very controversial is politics, the little or the much they know contributes to create an atmosphere to speak up.

Xujuesu, PRC
While teaching, I only give my students a chance to discuss some political issue when necessary. I think that just depends. If it is useful for classroom teaching, just do it. If not, leave it out although you really want to.

Nasralah, Jerusalem
Nowadays, politics affect health, economics, social structure of the country and almost every day life events. It is crucial to discuss the current political issues at least on the own country level so as to orient the students with what is going on around them.

Murat , Turkey
In my opinion we should sometimes discuss some current news or political issues if our pupils are mature enough to understand the topic. Maybe there can be a debate which students prepare their speech previously so it can be a very enjoyable speaking and listening lesson for pupils.

Moe Moe Kyaw, Japan
We should think that 'is it the best thing to discuss about politic in the classroom?' It's an interesting thing.But most of the children believe whatever the teacher says. Does the teacher really know about politic the right one. If the teacher presents his political thinking and persuades his students, what will happen? Or if the students reject or complain him, what shall we need to do? The classroom is not a debate and confrontation. There are many other things to discuss. The student should feel free and happy in school life. We shouldn't dye their lives.

Vladimir, Colombia
Discussing is great. Discussing about the existence of God is not too good, and discussing about political issues, I'd say not good either. If you as a teacher are able to lead the discussion into something that students will learn English, GREAT. But instead if the discussion turns only into political matters, it will be a waste of time and energy.

Maria C. Costa, Portugal
We have regularly been experiencing a fruitful classroom environment while focusing on political issues.And these emerge so spontaneously linked with a variety of topics in our English language classes! We would say that political issues surround us and move our attention to the world.And nowadays we have a unique opportunity to bring the world live into the classroom.Here we don't just mean using the (still) sophisticated IWB.Even with authentic, contemporary and relevant texts we can travel around the world and bring it in different approaches to our lessons. Today's learners need to have/feel well-defined guidelines before the contents they are supposed to learn about. Along with it, Respect, Responsibility and Reflection(daily cultivated throughout the teacher's role)- then the teaching/learning atmosphere flows more friendly and reliably, thus welcoming political issues! We believe this way learners will certainly become more aware of how important it is to relate their individual attitudes, as responsible citizens, to any political issue.This might help them in the near future to contribute with their views to a more balanced world!

Tabinda Urooj Samdani, Pakistan
Discussing current affairs and giving ones opinion is less risky than inviting a debate on a hot political issue, if the students are immature. Language teachers can make a practice of discussing the latest newspaper with the students once a week that would help serve many purposes like reading, learning, listening, pondering, reflection, discussion and understanding the political conditions of the world.

A.K.Farrar, Romania
There is a difference between discussion and promotion - with so much news coverage of this topic, and with younger people naturally interested in it, how can we not discuss it?

Halala, Kurdistan (Northern Iraq)
I think sometimes discussing political issues with the students in the class are important to let the students understand the world that they live in it much better, but in a condition the teacher should avoid having any conflict or misunderstanding. All, the teachers and the students should respect the others opinion a lot.

Balbi,Brazil
We have to so we can give students a chance to practice their English and express their opinions. Disagreement makes discussions more exciting.

C.S.Nair India
We may discuss politics in class rooms provided the issues discussed are not very serious ones. Children of fourteen years should be aware of what is happening around the world. But
involving themselves in active political actvities at this time of their life is altogether a diferent ball game.

Ruth Matias,Ethiopia
I believe political issues need to be discussed however we teachers should identify the level of the pupil. If we are trying to address key words in the real world, well I am quiet sure the students themselves will read more if they are interested.since it is very sensitive to most people it might create a conflict how hard I try to keep the class calm ,it might even go out of class .I therefore rather not discuss political issues in class.

Alexandra, Brussels
Ironically, it is considered socially unacceptable to talk about politics in English society...... and the language reflects this reluctance to express politics opinions in a social context. Something to consider. Personally, I always raise political issues in my class, politics is about life after all, even a discussion about sport can degenerate into an argument. We mustn't forget the cultural context and any historical baggage national groups may have.

Bakalem Abdelkader, Algeria
Teaching political issues in classrooms,nowadays, is a must, especially because of the different and various topics we are experiencing, such as globalization, global warming, unemployment, terrorism and illegal emigration. Teachers should be aware that discussing some topics in class, sometimes, is dangerous, too sensitive and a waste of time. However, teachers'guidance is of a great importance.

JKM.Jayaparakash, India
I agree that students should know everything in their school times. They should learn something about the polictical side. Especially in political issues they have to discuss in the alloted separate period. Not in the regular subject.

Axel Stammler, Germany
I think it is an illusion that topics which affect all aspects of the lives of students can be excluded from the classroom. It is also necessary to teach that anyone who believes there is any such thing as being apolitical just increases the power of the mighty. Students look for guidance in life. This is a huge responsibilty but also the beauty of being a teacher.

Enock Julius, Tanzania
Since we are in a globalization period we have to discuss any politcal issue regardless of the matter. The students should be aware of the world and the universe at large.

Carmen, Venezuela
I don't think we have to talk political in class because it's a problem. I think It's a big and long conversation in classs and we'll never finish to talk

Peter, Hungary
Yes, but be aware of your country's cultural background. You could be in for trouble in a so-called new democracy where politics has been banished from work-places and thus from schools too, because of party involment earlier. Or certain
sub-topics could be extremely touchy, even dangerous, e.g. the Taiwan issue in China. It hinges on the awareness of the T, but without discussing this most prevalent issue, how can we educate future generations to think and form opinions? It's a bit more important than the weather after all ...

Sahar, Iraq
We can discuss political issues in the class if the students are old enough to understand these things.

Altair, China
As a sophermore of Public Managment, politicl discussions is my everyday lives. But I think everybody should concern about politics, it can help understand your country and the government. Anyway, we must live in the society.

C. Thabet, Tunisia
Many adult students come to our classes to learn English to be able to operate in the "real" world. One of the things that people discuss in the real world is politics, so it should be part of our job to provide them with the necessary language to be able to do so. Having said this, as teachers, we must be responsible and avoid subjects which we know to be too sensitive and we must also avoid the temptation to try and convert students to our own point of view if it should be different. Our students should be able to join in discussions on a wide variety of subjects when they meet people through their work or studies, and they should not feel at a disadvantage as we have avoided discussion of so-called sensitive subject. We must approach lessons of this nature responsibly.

Farook, India
Politics is very essentitial thing to be taught in class room. The well-fare of the citizens is based only on politics. The changes in politics reflect in all departments which consist of a large number of common people... Today's students are tomorrow's leaders. So the political issues must be discussed in classroom.

Tribhuvan Mendiratta
Political discussions invariably lead to some discordant note whether we like it or not; and whatever precautions we may take, the discussion generally generates too much heat which is unwarranted and unhealthy for classroom comprising varied religious faiths and ideologies.

Kapil Dev Regmi, Nepal
Politics is a main system of a country and education system itself is a subsystem of this main system. It is significantly influenced by the politics of the nation and abroad as the world is becoming more globalized. Discussion on political issues not only enhances students to build up analytical power but also creates interest to talk more and write more in language classroom. The disagreement created by the political discussion is not bad in language classroom because more debates create more discussion and discussion is a good technique of teaching. I think some portion of political issues should be incorporated in the language curriculum.

Barno, Tajikistan
My students are young adults and adults and politics is an essential part of their lives. While discussing political issues students use the language to express their own opinions. This gives them feeling of using language for communication, and not for doing the task in the classroom.

Marija Liudvika Rutkauskaite
Apart from the uses of the discussion of politics in EFL, such discussion consolidates, in the speaker's mind, his knowledge of the facts, and it is important that an educated person should orientate himself well in the news of the day. But here is also a point of etiquette. To my knowledge, politics is a taboo topic in polite society conversation for obvious reasons: it is light rather than heat that is appreciated in one's conversation. It is good if the students are polite in the classroom since it is no pleasure to try to discipline them if the discussion becomes heated or to navigate to safety. I should think therefore that the teacher might be aware of all possible issues to have democracy where it belongs even in the new democracies and to preserve friendly atmosphere in the classroom.

Mary Jane Abrahams, Chile
If we want to educate people who can think for themselves, have an opinion and be empowered citizens, we have to introduce politics as an issue for open discussion. There cannot be taboo topics just because we think there's going to be a lot of contradicting opinions.... that is good! We cannot shy from controversy, on the contrary we have to learn how to deal with it.

Ramón Hernández, Mexico
The society where our students live is full of political issues which sometimes get poor results in every day life. Perhaps some or many of our students in the future get a political career, so they need to know what political issues are.

Rajan Chharahang, Nepal
This is the world of politics. We should make our students know about politics so that they can know the abstractions of being the loyal politician in pure politics. The discussion on politics gives the right knowledge for reasoning in future too. The school can be the first guide to every aspect of a child, then why can it be exceptional? I really agree to this point that the students as their child right is to be provided with knowing politics from School Level.

Nawaz Ali Sheikh, Pakistan
We live in the society where politics plays pivotal role in our practical lives.Education never means learning stack of academic books only .It broadens our mind to understand the world better.Politics brings the countries closer into integrity for socio-economic development.That's why issues in any part of the world should be discussed globally among the students because they are the future of the world.

Ray Swann, Czech Republic
How else are young people going to form their political opinions unless they have an opportunity to discuss them. Also, politics comes a close second to the weather as the most common topic of conversation, and I don't say that only because I'm English.

Emrah, Turkiye
It is a very critical issue. I think it depends on the intellectual and age group of people you are teaching. Politicians /parties have different points of view and their policies such as nationalism or ethnic cultures may differ. While discussing they may accidentally or intentionally insult their friends. We are teaching them how to live together. Teenagers are apolitical nowadays but this doesn't prevent them from insulting one another when they have the chance. Parents are another issue as they have suffered from political dilemma in the past and they may think you are trying to brainwash them. But issues like how governments should fight against unemployment or global warming should be discussed.

Jessica, Scotland
Before opening a discussion it's worth putting some rules in place (or negotiating them) e.g. 'You must always give reasons', 'You must all make sure everyone speaks equally' etc.

Biviana, Spain
It depends on the age of the students and even the country you are in. It's a delicate subject because people get emotional over their opinion.

Andrew, Brazil
There is no reason why political issues cannot be discussed provided that the issues originate from the students themselves and are not in any way imposed upon by the teacher. In the event of a political issue being discussed, it is also important that all views should be given the chance of being aired, so that nobody is felt "left out"!

Raffour Martine France
Actually we are not supposed to show our political opinions or religion. Not really easy to prove really unbiased.
Moreover some topics might raise a lot of tensions among ethnic groups, pupils may have reactions that are not welcome in a classroom. Discussing other countries political issues is easier and can help teach tolerance in a less abrupt and sensitive way.

Liz Clowes, Australia
I think it depends on the students and the situation.
They must be adults in order to have a meaningful political discussion, and the discussion MUST be polite and not contentious in any way, and neither should the teacher take "sides".
In some countries and/or situations, a political discussion could be highly dangerous, or at the very least lead to divisions in a previously-friendly class.
Although a discussion of this nature could be very lively and energetic, it could also be totally inappropriate ...

Mohamed Falah
I think that one of the objectives of teaching is to help our students to express their opinions. When discussing politics in the classroom, it is interesting to see how students use the language to defend their point of view.Also it is a good opportunity to teach new vocabulary related to the topic under discussion.

Irin David Evans, Spain
The discussion of politics often engages students emotionally, and I believe that this makes any process of learning more real. When personal opinions are put forward and there is strong objection or agreement, the language tends to be remembered. One of the best classes I ever taught was around the topic of abortion; the reponse was terrific with almost everyone contributing in fluent language. It was a highly emotional session for everyone, including one student leaving in tears and I lost my job as a consequence, but I don't regret it for one moment. It was still the most successful class I ever taught.

Adriana, Colombia
Politics is an important issue at the present time, because it concerns to everybody in the world. I think it is such a good idea to discuss about it.

Tioera Loane Kiribati
I totally agree that political issues should be discussed in the classroom. Students are the leading people in the future so they should exercise their rights from school onwards. Who knows, some might be excellent leaders of their countries, far better than those who just learnt about politics when they do further studies

Dimitra Katsimpeli, Greece
I believe politics is a sensitive issue and reguires a great deal of maturity and experience in order to be discussed. I do not believe it is appropriate for class discussion. Nobody would benefit instead it would probably lead to conflict and would create an unhealthy environment in general.

Vera Tsankova, Bulgaria
I believe that discussions on important political issues will help our students to learn how to be true members of democratic society, to shape their views, to know how to express them and how to defend their point of view - without offending the view points that may occur to be different from theirs. If during such a discussion an argument arises, the teacher should not take sides. A good idea is to show that everybody has the right to speak up their views and give arguments of ther rightness, to teach the students what the discussion culture means.

Helen, Portugal
Politics pervades our daily life both in actions and thought. Education is not neutral. Political issues should be raised in schools taking into account students's age and background. Language is power. Freedom of speech is essential to every process of analysing and dealing with reality. Censorship underlies strategies of avoiding troublesome issues. Education should be focused on a free decoding of the world we live in.

Onyegbunwa Julius Caesar, Nigeria
As a teacher of English I cannot shy away from discussing political issues with my students when the need arises. Political issues can be used to treat the register of government and politics. At the same time students become abreast of happenings both within and outside the country. There is no doubt that such discussions make the class lively and interesting. It is worth it if it is not overdone.

Annamaria D.Kalmar Phd, Hungary
Talking about politics in the classroom should be obvious and normal, as political issues - like many other issues - are integral parts of our everyday life. I teach teenagers who are students of a secondary school in Budapest and they need to be informed about all events effecting their life at the present and in the future. For making this topic attractive and staying within the limits of common sense, we have created the framework of talkinwriting about political issues of our country and other countries as well: everyone of the students in my class has got a EU member country to monitor and use all possible means of gathering information about it, then they exchange the information among others and pay virtual visits to each other's country. They enjoy this activity and have double benefit of it: extending their knowledge in general and extending their vocabulary, furthermore learning of art of discussion about things.

Elisa, Italy
...and the question is: why not? discussing political issues in the classroom does not mean necessairly giving opinions and make straight statements. It can be the moment where sudents express what they think and it is a positive way of exchanging points of view. The important is that teachers remain a sort of chairmen and don't try to lead or control the debate with their own political thoughts.

Ahmed Adamu Kaugama , Nigeria
You have said it all that politics is part of our every day lives and by any defination of politics, you must arrive at what differentiates mankind and animals, hence politics must be seen as a tool that regulates human activities so as to avoid the dark period of state of nature which is nasty and brutish.We must understand politics at every level of human endeavor but not to shy away from it.

Nathalie, France
We should be able to discuss about any topics in classroom, and I think it's important for students to learn vocabulary that belongs to the political domain as well. But the teacher must be aware of the importance of this topic and not try to influence youngers in their judgment. But,in fact, this is true for any topic.

Poonam, India
Politics can be discussed only in the related subject's sessions and not in all the classes as student's attention gets diverted if new ideas are discussed in classroom. To retain the classroom learnings it is important for a teacher to discuss only relevant topics related to that subject.

Ben, Japan
You have to be really careful with Japanese students - many are very reluctant to disagree with people in public and, though they will not show it, might be irritated by a teacher trying to lead them to a particular point of view. Having said that, a discussion of some topical political issue can be successful if the students in the class know each other quite well and there is an atmosphere where everyone is entitled to their opinion, even if it's just 'I really don't know' or 'I'm not really bothered about it' or 'it really doesn't affect me'.

Agenor, Philippines
Discussion of political issues can be done with two things as consideration: the relevance or connection to the present topic and student's readiness to discuss it. The discussion should not be contrived and imposed so students get to freely decide on the issues and not just echo the teacher's stand or agenda.

Mercedes Vitteri
I think it is very important for the people to be aware of what is happening not only in our own countries but also in other countries, and it is important also to talk about different topics, it enriches our lives and we widen our knowledge from the different point of views.

Aldana Verónica Spinozzi
I personally think that discussing politics in the classroom is not only essential to raise social awareness but also indispensable to build unprejudiced discussion. The point is not to try to impose your beliefs but let the kids express their own. I've used books such as "Animal Farm" or "1984" in the past...and with their analysis out came the talk about politics. But what i found great was to see how the kids were able to draw analysis on their own and compare these to the historical and political circumstances of our country. "Memory is what keeps history from repeating itself" Sometimes we need to talk politics to keep memory alive

Francis Boima
I do not think that we should not discuss politics in the classroom for the simple fact that it is not possible especially if you are teaching a subject like Enlish Language in a country where you are not a native but only following the dictates of the noble profession of inculcating knowledge for knowledge sake. I am saying this because of the experiences I have undergone while trying to get my student literate not only in expressing themselves but also be literate in making comments on burning political issues. For instance, talking about writing out debts to poorer countries has always been difficult to explain since the queston has been looked upon from patriotic angle and I have always had to explain that the humanitarian aspect should also be considered greatly especially when we look at the fact that the financial aspects of these loans were handled by people quite cut off from the real social 'gamut' that form the 'simple masses' who are today bearing the brunt of paying back these debts.

Camelia Santa, Romania
I certainly agree with discussing political issues in the classroom because students may not know anything about it, and moreover they do not show interest in this topic. We have to do our best to catch their interest and to develop their opinions because they have to have some, and if they do not, we have to make sure they will. If they are not interested in politics they are not interested in the world around them. And almost everything goes round politics.

Raed Attal , Syria
Since we need to be familiar with all aspects of English why don't we talk about political issues in class room? Here students will know and learn politics and English simultaniuosly.

Lydie, France
Yes, we obviously have to adress political issues or otherwise remain in our ivory tower. Anyway if teachers don't try to help students in voicing their owns ideas, the danger lies in the fact that sensitive issues are certain to "pollute" any attention they are willing to give to the lesson. The real problem is that most students don't have any thought at all and lack the basis to understand what's going on. Why not analyse John Le Carre's work with them and be patient and open-minded?

Yelena Kotova, Turkmenistan
Politics is an inseperable part of our daily life. We should teach students the political terms, ways to discuss political issues. Touching upon the political issues widens our students' horizons and give him or her important skills.

Shakeel Amjad, Pakistan
I thinks at times discussing some political issues becomes as impotant as any academic topic. However, the teacher should be careful enough not to be baised in favour of the issue under discussion

Nidia Cecchetto Reuter, Argentina
Politics is part of our everyday lives. Politics applies to human beings since we are able to communicate symbolically, agree, disagree and argue; consequently political issues should be present in the classroom, taking into account that the concept of politics is much broader than it is usually given.
Politics has to do with making decisions. Nevertheless, it is thought that politics only occurs at the level of government or it refers to political parties which is a fallacy.
Teachers should help learners to acquire language skills to develop arguments and counterarguments, exercising critical thinking.
The learning process is valid only when the students are capable of perceiving and reading the world to transform it.
Teaching is a social practice, therefore it is not neutral.
Classrooms must be places to construct meanings, problematize situations and find responses in order to make the world a fair place to live.

Ana Lacerda, Brazil
I think discussion and even disagreement can lead to a better understanding of things and life around us. In the English classroom all these questions may be discussed if well conducted and managed in a respectful atmosphere.

Pascu, Romania
Politics and doctrines should definitely de discussed. To vote is an important and major event for all citizens; if students have no idea about the ideas and concepts they won't be able to vote accordingly. Teachers shouldn't insist on a certain party or individual but on the consequences of each doctrine( liberalism, communism, socialism, monarchy).

Paciolio, China
Sometimes I refer to the political issues in class, but I select the topics carefully, the issues that are very sensetive are never involved, because they will lead to students' unneccessary anger. Athough the chinese people don't have the political rights as many as the western, most of us have a happy life and the situation is improved day by day. So, I think, it is very neccessary for the students to accept the differences between China and the western country and to find the way to improve the situation when they grown up.

Ilkay, Turkey
The students are looking forward to learning about the teacher's political views. Furthermore, they start to quarrel with friends who are against their ideas. In that respect, we should not talk about politics in the classroom. However, sometimes it is unavoidable. Whenever the politics creeps in, it is the teacher who should successfully initiate an educational discussion.

Mrs. Joyce Meksakul Thailand
Discussing politics broadens the minds of our students. Besides, it keeps them aware of what's going on around them. I believe that with a "guided" brainstorming (the teacher acting as the monitor), the students get to express their ideas. The most effective part of the process lies on the talent of the teacher in guiding the discussion toward a suitable compromise that will somehow satisfy both sides of the issue. Debate is a very useful tool in the development of the analytical skills of our students. We have to make sure, though , that as teachers we are also well-informed about it.

Leila, Algeria
Most of our students are aware of political issues, it is something we can hardly avoid, it became a part of our daily lives, in the kitchen, in the bus and everywhere, so talikng about it is much easier than ignoring it, anyway, it doesn't seem that we have much choice, our students are facing us with so many question about what they see on TV, Rdio, or even the internet.

Jana, Czech Republic
I think all issues that are discussed in public should be practised in the classroom. Students want to be able to express their ideas and explain them to foreigners who don´t understand the realia of the country they visit.

Maria Cecilia Ruiz
I think we can't avoid talking on this topic because it's just about our educational reality. We can ask our students about their opinions on the topic and to let them express their thoughts. But it's important not to critizise and respect their political ideas.

Nidia Estrada Smith, Mexico city.
Well, I think that we can talk about politics because they are part of our lives and in that way We can reinforce vocabulary, add new words, get to know each other and involve our students in the process of changing and improving their world.

Eiena, Ukraine
Politics is a very good topic, because it helps to learn new words and makes the discussion more vivid for most students.

Andrielle Oliveira, Brazil
I think discussing political issues in the classroom is a good thing when you can benefit from it, for example, by promoting a critic sense among the children. Nevertheless, it's not worth raising this kind of issue in the class if you note that it can ever tend to be biased.

Florencia, Argentina
I think it is not a good idea to discuss political issues since children or teenagers have not yet formed an opinion by themselves.

Idit, Israel
Sometimes we have the opportunity to talk about politics in class. I understand that this issue might bring up many discussions in our lessons. Nevertheless it is important for the students to know and learn the essential words that belong to this elemantary side of our day by day life. Teachers must not take any possition at all and try to bring the students to the level of understanding that the conversation is about learning. I did so a few times and I must say that the students and I were satisfied of our efforts to learn and not to fight against ideas or beliefs that could spoil our lessons.

Tamesonam, Bhutan
At the outset politics has to be understood before it is taken for a discussion. Let us first initiate a process of political education and then think about discussing political issues in the classroom.

Mbsottano, Argentina
No matter the topic, a good teacher always accompanies the human beings to be better citizens - and politics is a wonderful topic to fulfill this goal.

Dimitris, Greece
The classroom is not a vacuum and it's hypocritical to claim that poilitical issues should be excluded.Are issues such as environment,business, education, poverty, discriminations, etc irrelevant to politics?
Correct exploitation of political issues can promote tolerance and understanding among students who are of different origin,religion, race or ideology. If teachers are not biased and politically inflexible but they are ready to listen to other points of view and join their students in the pursuit of the values that promote humans, help them respect and come closer to each other, then they can feel that they can justify the core of their occupation:to facilitate learning and understanding in every aspect. Besides, political issues may give teachers the golden opportunity to bolster their students' writing and speaking skills such as giving an opinion, presenting both sides of an argument, discussing benefits and drawbacks, outlining problems and offering solutions, etc.

Riaz Uddin, Canada
Through disscussion we may reach some solution of any issue either political or social. It is very much healhy and positive if political issues may also be brought into discussion even in classroom.

Graeme Hodgson, Brazil
If our goal is to provide Ss with communicative competence in real-life situations (and according to the CEF it is!)... then what better way than to discuss politics just as people do in real life. Here in Brazil there is plenty of food for thought but hardly any truly sensitive political issues that could cause serious disharmony in the classroom. Even in situations where political views could represent deep-rooted hatred between the families and peer-groups of Ss, the English teacher can guide them in the expression of conflicting opinions with respect and fairness, without name-calling or finger-pointing. In short, if it's discussed outside the classroom, it can be discussed inside it too!

Amel Aladwani, PhD. Kuwait
From experience(12 years)& from hot political spot in the world, I found such discussion can creat a motive for adult learners in partciular to involve to clarify their points, state their opinions and to bridge any cross views. In addition, such discussion can bring a challanging atmosphere for EFL class, but teachers should be aware to hold the stick in the middle and try to be firm in controlling such discussion.

Manpreet Kailey, India
I feel like that the political issues are to be discussed in the classroom sometimes, because if we discuss the latest news related to the politics it provides a lots of knowledge regarding the present issues of the country and even the world too.

Liz Glanville, Italy
When discussing politics in class one has to be very aware that students may hold views that differ from the teachers, while other students have the same view as the teachers. This can make things very sticky in class dicussion. personally I generally steer clear of "politics" for that reason, and prefer to discuss big issues such as global warming etc. If politics then creep in, it's up to the teacher to handle it skillfully.

Joseph, China
I believe China is by far the most open of the Communist countries. They have many freedoms here. There are 2 topics strickly forbidden to discuss in groups....politics and religion. In a one to one ratio it's ok, just not in groups.

Yulia, Russia
In my opinion, being very provocative, politics is a good thing to make students start speaking. Politic matters give students a chance to discuss something real, something which is all around them. Undoubtedly the depth of the discussion depends on the interests of the students, their command of English, but, anyway, even with Intermediate students discussion of the topic can very likely be a success (for example, studying conditional sentences: 'If I were the President...').

Marija Liudvika Rutkauskaite, Lithuania
Unless the students are really dull or uninterested at all, politics is a topic that involves them into a discussion in which they use English spontaneously and challenge themselves. Second, it is interesting to discuss politics with young people and feel the pulse of society. Third, in her book 'Language, Culture and Teaching' (2002), Sonia Nieto assumes that education is a political engagement, i.e. that the teacher assumes a certain role and takes certain obligations. It seems, then, that politics may be connected with education.I should like only to add that it is only the teacher who is more or less free, i.e. has no primitive regulations, who can enjoy a political discussion in the classroom.Thank you.

Divya, India
Yes, we should discuss about politics in social science period,but not in other subject periods. Because the children should become aware of what is going on around them. It helps them to participate in political activities in future. This does not mean we should enforce and imbibe our opinions on them about each and every political party and politician. If they develop interest, let them try to learn more about politics. Such individuals might even be the future politicians!

Annie, China
We should be aware that in some countries it would be very unwise to discuss certain political topics.

John Wilkinson, Germany
Politics are an integral part of cultural studies. There is no way of communicating with people from another culture without knowing about the politics underlying everyday life. In the UK, concepts like the NHS, Thatcherism, the National Curriculum are taken foregranted in any conversation just as in Germany you have to know what is meant by the 'Wende', the 'Alliierte' and any number of notions dating from the aftermath of World War II.

Nicola, China
I wouldn't discuss politics in a classroom of mixed nationality where I thought some Sts might use it as an opportunity to offend other Sts. On the other hand, it is a great way to learn about cultural, not only political, differences.

Opia Chukwuma
Politics can be discussed in the classroom when teaching on political discourse, such as language of politics. This is acceptable because it enhances both teacher and student with appropriate political diction. This is opposed to the lay man's inapproriate political expression.

Politics is an academic subject itself.At the junior level it is called Civics, at other levels it is refered to as Government or Politics. This academic environment is best suited for intellectual political discourse.

Politics and the classroom cannot be isolated from each other, because political decissions and state policy affect classroom situations. In Nigeria, the Academic Staff Union of Nigeria ASUU has been on an indefinite strike to protest state policy on Universities in Nigeria.

This discourse can go on without end. My personal view as a teacher is that politics can be disscussed in the classroom.

Olga Tsymbal, Ukraine
To teach students discussing political issues is very important, but they shouldn't be poitical opponents.

Carol, Turkey
I'm surprised this is a question. My 17-20 year old students have produced some of their best spoken and written work through political issues on which they have strong views.
Teacher objectivity however is crucial, so is remaining friendly with the young students who put forward uninformed views you detest eg. racist views.

Ruchica, India
Seeing the deteriorated condition of our so called backbone of the country, politics, we need to make our coming generation aware about it. They have all the right to think and amend it. it's their national duty and national right to rectify the existing pits in the political system and this is only possible if we give them voice about it. They should be excited about their political structure and not just flush it away in ignorance. You never know they might take it serously and revolutionise the murky mess.

Kate Riley Italy
If students are to be the centre of the learning process then their views - whether we agree with them or not - are part of who they are and should be respected. The most successful lessons I have are always based on some burning issue of the moment. And this is REAL communication - not structure speech - close to the student's own reality. As studies have shown, students learn more from meaningful exchanges than anything else. What more meaningful than discussing the recent ban on smoking in public or policing the internet which affect students of all ages, creeds and colour.

António from Mozambique
Depends on the level that one is teaching. For children are irresolute as to which political part to support.
However, with intermediate and advanced students we can sometimes discuss political issues with them. In a way to stir up their emotions and analyze how good they can support themselves, and force others to take their view point.

Jacques, France
We can discuss, that is to list the pros and the cons. But never say that there is a best position, or try to convince others.

Turan Fýrat,Turkey
We are living in such a world that we can see the effect of politics nearly all aspects of our lives.The systems we wish to apply,the products we want to sell or consumed are the results of politics.The way we wear,the way we eat and drink are usually formed by any kind of politics.So we are bound to use politics in our classes by their intentions to govern and rule us trough their products and means.I think we sometimes do this in our classes.In my opinion everyone must have the right of informing what is happening around him and her.This may broaden their horizons and see the real world.

Yiong van Walsum, Malaysia, Netherlands
Because it's such an emotive subject for many people, I think it's a useful way for students to improve fluency, to practice polite ways of agreeing and disagreeing, practice dealing with interruptions. But the teacher really needs to put his/her own political views aside, concentrate on grammar and lexis used, and be very good at class management.

Heimbach-Wolter, Germany
I teach soldiers therefore political issues are essential for their work.

Kashif, Pakistan
Sometimes political matters should be discussed but often not.

Romania, Ana Hudici
We have to understand the ABC of politics and school may give you the first lessons at the level of your understanding.

Pappuhrao, India
It helps to educate the children on the movements going on in and around the world, sure it will have an adverse effect to some extent much to the embrassement of the head of the institution and the government of the day, but it helps formation of positive outlook.

Malaysia
Political ideals give us a vision to strive for and it is good to discuss the differenct philosophies without judgement. The practice of politics give rise to political issues created by the politicians who think their way is the best way ... this is sensitive and a taboo in classrooms. To go and vote without fear is welcome fresh air in any discsussion.

Celia Silva
I talk about political issues only in teenagers or adult classes, because I think it's impossible in kids classes.

Truong Binh
Political issues, in my opinion, are very controversal matters. Opposite ideas from participants easily lead to hot atmosphere in classrooms in particular and in somewhere else in general. Of course, we do not avoid talking about it when it is already raised, but how to keek it at the "peaceful" level to continue discussing on it, i think, is not comfortable task for the teacher to do. It had better be not mentioned from the beginning. However, it depends on the kind of class, it might necessary be to discuss at some.

Jim Bishop, China
What else is there to talk about?Students learn next to nothing about speech if they are verbalizing stuff they care nothing about.

Safya, Algeria
Politics is the concern of everybody be it in the classroom or outside and can lead to challenging discussions; this is true at least in Algeria where students are very politically minded. However, it can also be boring when overused as for most learners English classes are somehow a way of escaping reality.

Fayrouz, Algeria
Discussing political issues in the classroom should be avoided in order not to influence the students as the teacher is always seen as a model for thinking and behaving.

Nigeria
According to Aristotle,man is a political animal but politics in the classroom must be moderated in a way that it will impact positively on the class. Consequently, the topics for discussion should be properly selected to inculcate robust and healthy interest rather than the opposite.

Ursula Huancas, Peru
Well sometimes it's important, especially when an election is near because our students are eager to talk about it so it's a good moment to express their ideas in English and make them be aware of the social matters of their country.

Véronique, France
Political decisions affect our daily lives (public budgets alloted to such or such field, promotion of culture education, setting a business ... etc) so why shouldn't we discuss them ??

Katharine, Belgium
Depending on the student/s it can be very interesting to discuss politics in the classroom. Some of mine would be very disappointed if we didn't. Besides, it can be useful to help people remain diplomatic even if discussing a potentially contoversial subject. In the real world they often need those skills. I have never hesitated to discuss, for example, the death penalty with my students. I avoid such discussions or political discussions only with those that are so uninterested that it would fall flat.