Age Discrimination at the Workplace

The topic of Age Discrimination at the Workplace is essential for English learners as it addresses a prevalent issue in modern society. Understanding this concept will broaden their knowledge of employment dynamics and social challenges faced by older workers.

Moreover, they will enhance their vocabulary, comprehension and critical thinking skills while exploring potential solutions to create fair and respectful workplaces for all individuals, irrespective of age.

Instructions:

Go through the vocabulary below with your students and ask them to try and use this vocabaulry where possible when discussing the different conversation questions.

About Age Discrimination at the Workplace

Age discrimination at the workplace refers to the unfair treatment of employees or job applicants based on their age, typically affecting older individuals. Despite legal protections in many countries, ageism persists in various industries, with older workers facing challenges related to hiring, promotions and retention. This discriminatory practice can lead to reduced job opportunities, diminished career growth and lower job satisfaction for older employees. Addressing this issue requires awareness, effective policies and a commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment that values the skills and experience of all employees, regardless of age.

Conversation Questions

• Should business owners be allowed to discriminate by age when hiring someone?
• What reasons do you think an employer would prefer to employ a younger person rather than an older person?
• Do you think these reasons are justified?
• Have you ever witnessed or experienced age discrimination at a workplace? Can you share the details of the situation?
• How do you think age discrimination affects older employees' morale and job performance?
• What steps can organisations take to create a more age-inclusive work environment?
• How can coworkers and colleagues contribute to reducing age discrimination in the workplace?
• What are some stereotypes associated with older workers, and how can they be challenged and debunked?
• Should there be stricter penalties for companies found guilty of age discrimination in their hiring or promotion practices?
• Is age discrimination a bigger issue in larger corporations or in smaller businesses?
• Should age be a factor in determining eligibility for certain job positions, or should qualifications and skills be the primary criteria?
• What role does media and advertising play in perpetuating age-related stereotypes, and how can it be addressed?

This conversation topic was prepared by Gregory

Gregory is a qualified TEFL teacher who has been teaching English as a Foreign Language (ESL) for over a decade. He has taught in-person classes in Spain and to English learners around the world online.