Has the St. George’s cross been hijacked? England’s roads and roundabouts have been covered in an unprecedented wave of flags. Some see it as unifying and patriotic — others as divisive and even racist.
Flag furore as England turns red and white
Circling the issue: A number of councils declared that they were removing spray-painted flags to comply with traffic regulations. Comprehension quiz
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The word “connotations” in this context means:
A: The literal, dictionary definition of a word
B: An idea or feeling which a word or object invokes
C: A factual statement about an object
D: A type of national flag
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Which word is the closest synonym for “prevalent”?
A: Hidden
B: Controversial
C: Widespread
D: Colourful
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According to the article, where did the recent wave of flying the England flag begin?
A: London
B: Baku, Azerbaijan
C: Weoley Castle, Birmingham
D: Across the whole country simultaneously
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According to the article, which two of the following are reasons why the England flag has been a rare sight in the past?
A: It is only used for major sporting events.
B: Some associate it with far-right nationalism.
C: It is illegal to fly it from public buildings.
D: It is not the official flag of the state.
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Identify two different people or organisations mentioned in the article who have commented on the flying of the flags and summarise their point of view.
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In your own words, summarise the two opposing viewpoints in the article about the recent wave of flag-flying.
Answers
Tap to reveal
1. B 2. C 3. C 4. B and D 5. Any two from the following: Keir Starmer, Birmingham City Council, David Barnett, a man of Nigerian origin (or Reuters interviewee), Ryan Bridge, The Weoley Warriors, Michael Kenny. 6. One viewpoint is that the flag is a negative symbol associated with far-right nationalism and racism, and its widespread use is worrying because it could lead to racist attacks. The opposing viewpoint is that it is a positive act of innocent patriotism, intended to cheer people up, give hope, and unite communities in a multicultural country.
1. B 2. C 3. C 4. B and D 5. Any two from the following: Keir Starmer, Birmingham City Council, David Barnett, a man of Nigerian origin (or Reuters interviewee), Ryan Bridge, The Weoley Warriors, Michael Kenny. 6. One viewpoint is that the flag is a negative symbol associated with far-right nationalism and racism, and its widespread use is worrying because it could lead to racist attacks. The opposing viewpoint is that it is a positive act of innocent patriotism, intended to cheer people up, give hope, and unite communities in a multicultural country.
Glossary
St. George - The patron saint of England, as well as a number of other countries. He was an officer in the Roman army and is celebrated as a martyr for the Christian faith.
Azerbaijan - A former Soviet Republic between the Caspian Sea and Caucasus mountains.
Far-right - A range of ideologies that emphasise social order, racial purity and the elimination of opponents.
Nationalism - Loyalty and devotion to one nation, and seeing its interest as separate to the interests of others.
Nazi salute - A gesture in which the right arm is held upwards with the palm down. The gesture was used as a greeting in Nazi Germany.
Patriotism - Showing love and pride for your country.