So, let's talk about unity and diversity. 

Let's start with this question : what forms can plurality and diversity take in today's world ? 

They can be seen across beliefs, religions, lifestyles, and languages. These differences may appear at the level of individuals, communities, or entire nations. But do such differences always bring people together? Unfortunately, they can also cause division—whether through social class, economic inequality, or heated debates on issues like gender roles, same-sex marriage, or emerging global challenges such as terrorism, climate change, or automation.

Can diversity be more than a source of conflict?

Well, yes—it can also be a powerful asset. When individuals are open to mutual influence and change, society grows stronger. Does living together require effort? Absolutely. It means breaking down barriers, welcoming new perspectives, and engaging with others in a respectful and positive way. Sharing experience and knowledge is one of the best ways to grow. Sharing know-how and lived experience encourages innovation and helps societies to move forward.

So, is peaceful coexistence always easy?

Not at all. Differences can lead to tension or even conflict—especially when they turn into deep divides. When people reject what they don’t understand, it can result in exclusion, discrimination, or in the worst cases, violence and genocide. Even though multiculturalism and multilingualism are now viewed as strengths, they sometimes lead to marginalization and separation.

So, are all groups treated equally in diverse societies?

Well, sadly, no. Discrimination still targets minorities, women—often treated as second-class citizens—and the poor. This can create a divided society and it prevent real harmony between communities.

Does history offer examples of this?

Yes. For example, Apartheid in South Africa is a striking case of a political system that institutionalized division and inequality. Apartheid shows how power structures can harm society. Similar patterns appeared in the U.S. during segregation and even today with regards Native Americans. Similarly, in Australia, Aboriginal peoples have suffered cruelty and  widespread exclusion. In Canada, indigenous children were taken from their families and forced into boarding schools that erased their cultural identity.

So, despite historical atrocities, can difference also unite people?

The answer is yes—if we choose to value and celebrate diversity. Cultural and sporting events, festivals, commemorations, and celebrations can bring people together. Music and sport can help create unity. These activities foster community, encourage a sense of pride and belonging, and promote inclusion—unlike systems that concentrate benefits among the privileged few while excluding other members of society.

Comprehension Questions (1–7)

These check understanding of key ideas and rhetorical structure.

• What are some of the areas where diversity can be observed according to the text?

• What are the potential positive outcomes of diversity?

• What does the author mean by "living together requires effort"?

• How does the text explain the dangers of rejecting differences?

• What historical example is used to illustrate institutionalized division?

• How are multiculturalism and multilingualism portrayed in the text?

• What role do cultural and sporting events play in fostering unity?

Discussion / Critical Thinking Questions (8–15)

These are open-ended questions to encourage deeper reflection and classroom debate.

• Do you think diversity is more often a source of conflict or of strength in today’s world? Why?

• Can you think of a country where peaceful coexistence between communities works well? What factors make it work?

• In your opinion, what is the biggest obstacle to social unity today?

• Is it possible to fully eliminate discrimination in modern societies? Why or why not?

• Do you think commemorating past injustices (like apartheid or residential schools) helps society move forward? Explain.

• How can young people contribute to building inclusive communities?

• How do sports or music help create a sense of belonging? Give real-life examples if possible.

• “Sharing experience encourages innovation.” Do you agree? Can you think of a field (education, science, culture…) where this is especially true?

Comprehension Questions with answer guides

What are some of the areas where diversity can be observed according to the text?

Diversity can be seen in beliefs, religions, lifestyles, and languages. It appears at the individual, community, or national level.

What are the potential positive outcomes of diversity?

Diversity can be a source of strength. It encourages mutual influence, personal growth, innovation, and social progress when approached respectfully.

What does the author mean by "living together requires effort"?

It means that coexistence demands open-mindedness, breaking down barriers, accepting new perspectives, and working actively to build inclusive relationships.

How does the text explain the dangers of rejecting differences?

Rejecting what is unfamiliar can lead to exclusion, discrimination, or even violence and genocide in extreme cases.

What historical example is used to illustrate institutionalized division?

Apartheid in South Africa is mentioned as a political system that created racial segregation and inequality. Other examples include treatment of Native Americans and Aboriginal Australians.

How are multiculturalism and multilingualism portrayed in the text?

They are seen as strengths but also come with challenges, as they can still lead to separation and marginalization if not managed inclusively.

What role do cultural and sporting events play in fostering unity?

These events bring people together, promote shared pride, encourage community bonds, and offer a positive alternative to exclusionary systems.

Discussion / Critical Thinking Questions with Suggested Answers

Do you think diversity is more often a source of conflict or of strength in today’s world? Why?

It depends on the context. In some societies, diversity fosters innovation and cultural richness. In others, if not managed well, it can lead to social tensions due to fear, misinformation, or lack of dialogue.

Can you think of a country where peaceful coexistence between communities works well? What factors make it work?

Canada is often cited as a country promoting multiculturalism. Factors include inclusive laws, education, and public policies that respect cultural identity.

In your opinion, what is the biggest obstacle to social unity today?

Possible answers: systemic inequality, racism, political polarization, lack of education on diversity, or media-driven fear of “the other.”

Is it possible to fully eliminate discrimination in modern societies? Why or why not?

Probably not entirely, because prejudice is deeply rooted, but education, laws, and awareness can greatly reduce it and promote fairness.

Do you think commemorating past injustices (like apartheid or residential schools) helps society move forward? Explain.

Yes, because remembering prevents repetition, honors victims, and opens up necessary conversations about justice and reconciliation.

How can young people contribute to building inclusive communities?

By challenging stereotypes, participating in intercultural projects, promoting respectful dialogue, and using social media to share inclusive messages.

How do sports or music help create a sense of belonging? Give real-life examples if possible.

They bring people together regardless of background. Example: the Olympics or international music festivals like Glastonbury or WOMAD promote unity through shared experiences.

“Sharing experience encourages innovation.” Do you agree? Can you think of a field (education, science, culture…) where this is especially true?

Yes. In science, collaboration across cultures brings new perspectives and faster discoveries. In education, diverse classrooms foster creativity and problem-solving.

Descriptive Questions (Facts, Dates, Events)

When did the 7/7 bombings take place, and how many people were killed and injured?

What was Ken Livingstone’s official position at the time of the attacks, and how did he respond publicly?

Where did the youngest bomber detonate his device, and how many people died in that incident?

Analytical Questions (How, Why...)

Why does the author highlight the diversity of London in response to the 7/7 attacks?

How does the article contrast Ken Livingstone’s leadership in 2005 with contemporary political attitudes?

Why does Hugh Muir describe the attackers’ goal as an attempt to divide Londoners, and how was that resisted?

Reflective Questions (Opinion, Conditionals, Ethics)

In your opinion, what role should political leaders play during national tragedies?

If a similar attack happened today, how do you think politicians and media would respond differently?

Do you agree with Livingstone’s idea that diversity is a strength, not a weakness? Why or why not?

Bonus Question (Civic engagement & ethics)

What responsibilities do ordinary citizens have in resisting division and promoting unity in diverse societies?

SUJET STYLE BAC

Le sujet porte sur la thématique Faire Société

Partie 1 (16pts)

Prenez connaissance des documents A, B, C (text, article Guardian et bandes annonces) et traitez le sujet suivant en anglais en environ 500 mots.   

Taking into account their specificities, explain what the above documents and videos reveal about the importance, difficulties and  possibilities associated with unity  and diversity in modern society. 

(L'enseignant, à partir de ses grandes lignes, va proposer un sujet plus nuancé et plus précise le jour de l'écrit) 

Partie 2 (4pts)

Traduisez en français le passage suivant de l'article du Guardian. 

(L'enseignant va proposer un extrait pour traduction). 

The Land of the Free: Is Freedom a Central Element of American Identity?

1. Freedom as a Foundational Concept in the United States

Freedom has been embedded in the United States’ identity since its creation. The Declaration of Independence (1776) affirmed that every person is born with basic rights, including liberty. The U.S. Constitution and its first ten amendments—known as the Bill of Rights—reinforce these values by protecting free speech, religion, and the press, among others.

The concept of liberty remains a defining part of how Americans see themselves and their country.

Symbols and Leaders That Embody American Freedom

2. National Emblems and U.S. Presidents

Several symbols and figures represent this idea of freedom. The Statue of Liberty, a gift from France, stands at the entrance to New York Harbor, welcoming immigrants and symbolizing hope and liberty.

American presidents have also embraced and defended this ideal. Franklin D. Roosevelt, for instance, emphasized the “Four Freedoms” in a famous speech in 1941: freedom of speech, freedom of worship, freedom from want, and freedom from fear. These values later influenced the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Social Inequalities and Challenges to Freedom

3. The Struggle for Equal Rights

Despite the national focus on liberty, not everyone in the U.S. has historically enjoyed the same freedoms. For a long time, African Americans were denied equal rights and opportunities. Segregation laws kept Black people apart from white citizens in many public places.

The Civil Rights Act of 1964 marked a major step forward by banning discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. This helped bring legal protection to all citizens, but disparities remain in areas like income, education, and policing.

Modern Reflections: Is Freedom Fully Realized Today?

4. Who Truly Enjoys Liberty in the U.S. Today?

Today, some question whether freedom is accessible to everyone. Historically, only white male landowners were considered full citizens. It wasn’t until 1920 that women gained the right to vote with the 19th Amendment. Even now, debates continue over who can fully enjoy civil liberties in practice.

Issues like voter suppression, economic inequality, and racial profiling suggest that freedom is still not equally experienced by all Americans.

Focus Section: Guns – A Liberty or a Risk?

The Second Amendment to the Constitution gives Americans the right to bear arms. Some people defend gun ownership as a form of personal freedom, while others argue it puts public safety at risk.

A 2020 survey showed differences in opinions based on gender, ethnicity, community type, and political affiliation. For example, women and people living in urban areas were more likely to see guns as a threat than men or rural residents.

We’re Experts in Fascism.
We’re Leaving the U.S. | NYT Opinion

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IXR9PByA9SY

(00:03) I’m a historian of totalitarianism. I look at fascist rhetoric. I’ve been thinking about the sources of the worst kinds of history for a quarter of a century. “Experts say the constitutional crisis is here now.” ”The Trump administration deporting hundreds of men without a trial.” "A massive purge at the F.B.I." "To make people afraid of speaking out against him." I’m leaving to the University of Toronto because I want

(00:34) to do my work without the fear that I will be punished for my words. The lesson of 1933 is you get out sooner rather than later. I’ve spent a lot of time in the last decade trying to prepare people if Trump were elected once, let alone twice. "Look what happened. Is this crazy?" [CHEERING] I did not flee Trump. But if people are going to leave the United States or leave American universities, there are reasons for that.

(01:03) One thing you can definitely learn from Russians — — is that it’s essential to set up centers of resistance in places of relative safety. We want to make sure that if there is a political crisis in the U.S., that Americans are organized. ”We’ve just gotten started. You haven’t even seen anything yet. It’s all just kicking in.” My colleagues and friends, they were walking around and saying, "We have checks and balances.

(01:30) So let’s inhale, checks and balances, exhale, checks and balances." And I thought, my God, we’re like people on the Titanic saying our ship can’t sink. We’ve got the best ship. We’ve got the strongest ship. We’ve got the biggest ship. Our ship can’t sink. And what you know as a historian is that there is no such thing as a ship that can’t sink. "The golden age of America has only just begun.” America has long had an exceptionalist narrative —

(02:03) fascism can happen elsewhere, but not here. But talking about American exceptionalism is basically a way to get people to fall into line. If you think that there’s this thing out there called America and it’s exceptional, that means that you don’t have to do anything. Whatever is happening, it must be freedom. And so then what your definition of freedom is just gets narrowed and narrowed and narrowed and narrowed,

(02:28) and soon, you’re using the word freedom — what you’re talking about is authoritarianism. Toni Morrison warned us: “The descent into a final solution is not a jump. It’s one step. And then another. And then another.” We are seeing those steps accelerated right now. There are some words in Russian in particular that I feel help us to understand what’s happening in the United States because we now have those phenomena.

(03:14) "Proizvol": It’s the idea that the powers that be can do anything they want to and you have no recourse. This not knowing who is next creates a state of paralysis in society. The Tufts student whose visa was removed because she co-authored an article in the Tufts student newspaper. [DESPERATE YELLING] I thought, what would I do if guys in masks tried to grab my student? Would I scream? Would I run away? Would I try to pull the mask off?

(03:49) Would I try to videotape the scene? Would I try to pull the guys off of her? Maybe I would get scared and run away. The truth is, I don’t know. Not knowing terrified me. It’s a deliberate act of terror. It’s not necessary. It’s just being done to create a spirit of us and them. "Prodazhnost": It’s a word in Russian for corruption, but it’s larger than corruption. It refers to a kind of existential state in which not

(04:20) only everything but everyone can be bought or sold. "Critics are calling this a quid pro quo deal between Adams and President Trump." "I’m committed to buying and owning Gaza." "He made $2.5 billion today, and he made $900 million." There’s an expression in Polish: "I found myself at the very bottom, and then I heard knocking from below." In Russian, that gets abbreviated to "There is no bottom." "We cannot allow a handful of communist radical left judges

(04:53) to obstruct the enforcement of our laws." What starts to matter is not what is concealed but what has been normalized. There is no limit to the depravity — ”President Trump did not rule out the possibility of a third term.” — and the sadism — “The White House released this video titled ASMR Illegal Alien Deportation Flight.” — and the cruelty that we are watching now play out in real time. “This facility is one of the tools in our tool kit that we

(05:21) will use.” You have to continually ask yourself the question, "Is this OK? Is there a line I wouldn’t cross? Is there something I would not do?" People say, oh, the Democrats should be doing more. They should be fixing things. But if you want the Democrats to do things, you have to create the platform for them. You have to create the spectacle, the pageantry, the positive energy, the physical place where they can

(05:51) come to you. Poland recently went through a shift towards authoritarianism. Unlike in Russia, unlike in Hungary, the media remained a place, in Poland, where you could criticize the regime. And as a result, democracy returned. The moral of Poland is that our democratic institutions — the media, the university, and the courts — are essential. You know you’re living in a fascist society when you’re constantly going over in your head the reasons

(06:39) why you're safe. What we want is a country where none of us have to feel that way.

1. “Is the idea of American exceptionalism still valid in today’s world?”

💬 The video suggests that belief in U.S. exceptionalism prevents citizens from recognizing signs of democratic decline. Do you agree that this belief is dangerous? Can a democracy become blind to its own weaknesses?

Objective: Encourage students to evaluate the myth of exceptionalism and compare it with current global realities.

2. “What role should intellectuals, artists, and students play in resisting authoritarianism?”

💬 The speakers in the video mention leaving the U.S. to continue their work freely and helping to organize resistance abroad. Do intellectuals and students have a duty to act when democracy is under threat? Why or why not?

Objective: Promote reflection on civic responsibility, freedom of expression, and moral courage in difficult political climates.

3. “Where is the line between national security and civil liberty?”

💬 The video mentions mass deportations, surveillance, and the removal of student visas for writing an article. In your opinion, what actions by a government are justified in the name of national security? What should never be allowed?

Objective: Help students examine the balance between safety and freedom, and develop critical thinking about state power.

Debate: “Is America Still Exceptional — or Are We Sliding Toward Fascism?”

👤 Elena – History professor, anti-authoritarian activist

“I study authoritarian regimes. I’ve seen the warning signs — and I see them now in the U.S. When a president threatens the press, disrespects the rule of law, and encourages violence, that’s not patriotism. That’s authoritarianism. We cannot keep telling ourselves ‘it can’t happen here.’ That’s what Germans said in the 1930s. America is not immune.”

🧢 Kyle – Proud MAGA voter, truck driver

“I’m not an expert, but I know what I feel. Under Trump, I could afford gas. I had work. He says what we think but can’t say. I don’t care about what some professor says about history — I care about today. If people want to leave, let ’em. We’re not becoming fascist, we’re just finally putting Americans first.”

On American Exceptionalism

Elena: “American exceptionalism has become a blinder. It keeps us from noticing when our institutions fail. People say, ‘We have checks and balances,’ like it’s a magic spell. But systems only work if people defend them.”

Kyle: “I believe in America. We’re different for a reason. We’ve helped the world more than any other country. Just because someone disagrees with how things are going doesn’t mean we’re collapsing.”

On the Role of Intellectuals and Students

Elena: “It’s our responsibility — teachers, students, artists — to speak out. When freedoms are threatened, silence is complicity. Some of us are leaving not to escape, but to keep fighting where it’s still safe.”

Kyle: “That sounds dramatic. Most Americans just want to get through the day. People like me don’t get heard unless someone like Trump gives us a voice. I’m tired of being told I’m part of the problem because I want my country to work for me.”

On Civil Liberties vs National Security

Elena: “Deporting people without trials, canceling visas over a student article — that’s not security. That’s fear. That’s power used to silence, not protect.”

Kyle: “Look, we need to feel safe. If someone’s breaking the law or hurting our country, they should be gone. It’s not about cruelty — it’s about order. You can’t run a country on feelings.”

SUJET STYLE BAC

Le sujet porte sur la thématique xxxx

Partie 1 (16pts)

Prenez connaissance des documents A, B, C (xxxxxxx) et traitez le sujet suivant en anglais en environ 500 mots.   

Taking into account their specificities, explain what the above documents and videos reveal about the xxxxxxxxx. 

(L'enseignant, à partir de ses grandes lignes, va proposer un sujet plus nuancé et plus précise le jour de l'écrit) 

Partie 2 (4pts)

Traduisez en français le passage suivant de l'article du xxxxxxxx. 

(L'enseignant va proposer un extrait pour traduction). 

B1 Summary – Bridgerton and Race: A Fantasy or a Problem?

The Bridgerton series, and especially the spin-off Queen Charlotte, are known for showing a world where Black and white people live as equals in 18th-century Britain. Many viewers appreciate this diverse casting. They enjoy seeing Black characters as queens, lords, and members of high society. For some, it’s refreshing and empowering.

However, not everyone agrees. Some historians and critics say this kind of “Black fantasy” can be problematic. They believe it creates a false version of history. For example, during Queen Charlotte’s time, slavery was still legal, and most Black people in Britain were poor or enslaved. In reality, there were very few wealthy Black people in the 1700s.

The series does not talk about slavery, colonisation, or the violence of the past. This silence worries some people. They say it hides the truth and gives the wrong idea — as if racism didn’t exist.

Other productions, like Queen Cleopatra or Sanditon, also include Black characters in powerful roles. This helps representation, but some fear it might confuse the public. If viewers believe these stories are historically accurate, they might think Black people always had freedom and status, which is not true.

Some experts suggest a better solution: either tell real stories of historical Black figures — like the film Chevalier does — or be honest about the fact that historical dramas are fiction, not reality.

In short, Bridgerton starts an important conversation. But it also shows how complex it is to mix race, history, and fantasy in entertainment.

HOST : Good evening. I'm Bradford Kingsley and this is the Media Hour. 

Tonight we’re discussing the Netflix hit series Bridgerton, and also its spin-off series Queen Charlotte. 

We'll be discussing whether these shows represent progress for diversity in media, or do they distort history and the difficult truths about our past ? 

With me tonight are two guests : first of all, to my left, Rachel Clarke, British TV Producer and an enthusiastic fan of the Bridgerton books and TV-adaptations. 

And with us by video call, Angela Mboya, American Civil Rights Activist and author of "Hands Off Our Histories".

First of all Rachel : tell us a little about the place Bridgerton holds in your viewing habits.

RACHEL : Thank you, Bradford. First of all, I admire Bridgerton enormously, and I’ll say it clearly : Shonda Rhimes is a genius. 

What she’s done is groundbreaking. For the first time in a mainstream historical drama, we see people of colour — Black women especially — as queens, duchesses, leaders. They are not just maids or background characters. They are powerful, sensual, and complex.

And let’s talk about the women. We see strong women who challenge the roles society gave them. Women who speak their minds, who take control of their desires, who don’t fit the size-zero model but still command the screen. That matters — because girls are watching. Representation is not just about race; it’s about shape, age, and agency.

ANGELA : Representation matters, yes. But not at the cost of truth. 

Bridgerton is a fantasy — and that would be fine if it didn’t pretend to be set in the real world. In the 18th century, most Black people in Britain were enslaved, poor, or invisible in elite society. This show erases that history.

It gives a false picture. It lets people — especially those on the far right — say: “Look, everything was fine back then. Stop complaining.” It’s harmful. It helps people deny the trauma, the injustice, and the ongoing fight for civil rights. 

You can’t rewrite the past and pretend that’s progress.

RACHEL : But no one is saying it’s a documentary! We all know it's fiction. This is an imaginative reconstruction — a “what if?” that allows Black women to finally see themselves in powerful roles. We’re not erasing history; we’re building hope.

ANGELA : But when you rewrite history without context, you invite ignorance. Imagine if someone made a show where the Holocaust never happened, or apartheid never existed — just so we could have a “positive” story. That would be unacceptable.

I do agree it’s beautiful to see diverse bodies, voices, and desires on screen. But don’t confuse that with justice. Real justice means telling the truth, even when it’s ugly.

HOST : Okay, our time is up. Thank you both. Rachel sees fiction as liberation, Angela sees it as a dangerous mask. 

Perhaps the real challenge is to tell stories that inspire and educate — without forgetting the truths that shaped us.

Thank you to our listeners and goodnight from us all here in the studio.

SUJET STYLE BAC

Le sujet porte sur la thématique xxxx

Partie 1 (16pts)

Prenez connaissance des documents A, B, C (xxxxxxx) et traitez le sujet suivant en anglais en environ 500 mots.   

Taking into account their specificities, explain what the above documents and videos reveal about the xxxxxxxxx. 

(L'enseignant, à partir de ses grandes lignes, va proposer un sujet plus nuancé et plus précise le jour de l'écrit) 

Partie 2 (4pts)

Traduisez en français le passage suivant de l'article du xxxxxxxx. 

(L'enseignant va proposer un extrait pour traduction).