When Adora Svitak was twelve years old, she spoke on the TED stage, saying she hates the word "childish" if it's being used to describe irrational (不合理的)demands or irresponsible behavior. She said she has seen enough of that in the adult world, so she knows irrational demands and irresponsible behavior aren't limited to children. In fact, she made the point that adults could learn a thing or two if they'd only open their mind to the possibility that kids have a lot to offer the world.
Even as a kid, Svitak often spoke to educators, making the point that there should be more of a reciprocal (互惠的)relationship between teachers and students. "It shouldn't just be teachers at the head of the classroom telling them to do this or that. The students should teach their teachers," she said.
But she wasn't naive(幼稚的), and she knew that isn't how many classrooms and schools operate in that way. Her theory is that it's all about trust. Adults always seem to have a restrictive (约束的)attitude towards kids. "Kids have no or very little say in making the rules," Svitak joked.
As a young child, Svitak loved to write. When her mom gave her a computer she wrote over 300 short stories on it. She wanted to get them published, and she was lucky because her parents were on her side. Even though she was turned down by many publishers, eventually she did have a book of short stories published. She was only seven years old then.
After that first success, Svitak has gone on to do more impressive things, something she wishes more kids had the support to do. She says it's important for kids to be heard and contribute when they're young, so they grow up to become a better kind of adult. "The goal is not to turn kids into your kind of adults, but rather better adults than you guys have been. Progress happens because new generations and new eras grow and develop, and they become better than the previous ones. It's the reason we aren't in the Dark Ages anymore," she said.
12. What does Svitak think of using "childish" to describe irrational demands?
A.It is unfair for children. | B.It can lead to positive effects. |
C.It takes no account of adults' needs. | D.It can result in irresponsible behavior. |
13. What is a good reciprocal relationship between teachers and students according to Svitak?
A.Students get along with teachers. | B.Students teach instead of learning. |
C.Teachers keep telling students what to do. | D.Teachers and students learn from each other. |
14. How did Svitak's parents react to her dream?
A.They supported her. | B.They had doubt about it. |
C.They were greatly shocked. | D.They hardly took it seriously. |
15. What can we infer from the last paragraph?
A.Children need to stick to their dreams. |
B.Parents should satisfy their children's needs. |
C.Children are advised to imitate their parents. |
D.Parents should support and expect more from children. |