Listening

Warm Up

Helpful Words and Phrases

Listen and repeat.

  1. a burglary
    • ex. There was a burglary at the supermarket. The thieves stole some money.
  2. charge
    • ex. The police charged him with stealing a bike from the park.
  3. break into (something)
    • ex. Some thieves broke into my neighbor's house, but the alarm scared them away.
  4. a suspect
    • ex. The police caught the suspect near the crime scene.
  5. a masterpiece
    • ex. Many people say that the painting is the artist's greatest masterpiece.

Article

Read the article below and answer your tutor's questions.

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A famous artwork by Banksy, a popular British artist, was taken during a burglary at the Grove Gallery in London. Two men were charged with stealing the artwork called “Girl with Balloon.” The Metropolitan Police said that Larry Fraser, 47, and James Love, 53, broke into the gallery. The suspects were seen on camera smashing a glass door to enter and then quickly taking the artwork from the wall.

The police found the painting, which is worth about £270,000 (around ¥51 million). No other items were stolen. Gallery manager Lindor Mehmetaj said he was shocked by the theft but happy to have the artwork back. He hopes the incident might increase the artwork’s value. According to Mehmetaj, when a masterpiece is stolen, its financial value often goes up.

The artwork “Girl with Balloon” shows a child reaching for a heart-shaped balloon. It is one of Banksy’s masterpieces. Banksy, who has never revealed himself, started his career by painting buildings in Bristol, England. He has become one of the world’s most famous artists. His works often sell for millions of dollars, making them common targets for thieves.

Discussion

Choose a topic and discuss the questions with your tutor.

Famous Artworks

  • In your country, what do you think is the most famous artwork? Discuss.
  • Do you like seeing famous masterpieces at museums? Why or why not? Discuss.
  • Imagine that you are an artist. What kind of art would you like to create (ex. pottery, a painting)? Discuss.

Burglary in Museums

  • Why do you think some criminals try to steal masterpieces at museums? Discuss.
  • In your opinion, what punishment should the thieves get for stealing "Girl with Balloon?" Discuss.
  • Imagine that you owned a museum. What would you do to prevent burglary? Discuss.