Spark Study Buddy (Challenger): Disneyland becomes study spot for students in Hong Kong, mainland China
The story on this page has some tougher vocabulary words and questions to improve your understanding and English grammar
Students are increasingly studying at Disneyland, finding the joyful environment and annual memberships beneficial for motivation and comfort. Photo: SCMP composite/RedNote
Content provided by British Council
[1] More Chinese youth are buying annual memberships for Disneyland. They see it as a unique way to study while participating in the idea of “doing the hardest work at the happiest place in the world.” The trend started last March when some young people shared their experiences studying at Disneyland parks in Shanghai and Hong Kong.
[2] A university student from Hong Kong told Haibao News that she chose the theme park as her study spot because the uplifting music throughout the park provided comfort during the stress of her academic work. She purchased the top-tier Platinum annual pass. It costs HK$4,998 and gives her access to the park all year round.
[3] The more economical annual memberships are available at HK$1,568 for Hong Kong Disneyland and 1,399 yuan (HK$1,499) for the Shanghai location, allowing entry on most weekdays. A single-day ticket to Disneyland can cost several hundred yuan, so many students find the annual membership a valuable investment if they plan to study there regularly.
[4] A graduate student in Shanghai said that the nightly fireworks display was a significant draw for her studying at Disneyland. She shared that the fireworks instilled a sense of hope in her, even amid uncertainties about the outcome of her studies: “We all have a bright future.”
[5] Students studying in theme parks recognise that such environments may not be the most effective for serious study. However, they prefer to focus on simpler, repetitive tasks, like memorising English vocabulary.
[6] Many individuals shared their Disneyland study experiences on RedNote. They offered advice on the “best spots” for studying. These locations are often quieter, less-frequented diners and lounging areas. They are ideally equipped with power outlets so students can make the most of their day there. Outdoor spaces are also favoured, especially during summer, as a pleasant breeze adds to the experience.
[7] Professor Xiao Longhai, an education expert at Zhejiang University, said theme parks could be an effective starting point for young people seeking joy and motivation in their studies. “However, if they aim to delve deeper into their studies, it’s essential to do so in a quiet environment where they can focus entirely,” he advised.
[8] Some critics of this trend argue that it disrupts the enjoyment of those visiting the parks for leisure. “They occupy tables all day long, making it difficult for genuine diners to find a seat,” one user complained on RedNote.
Source: South China Morning Post, February 11
Questions
1. Where does the “happiest place in the world” in paragraph 1 refer to?
2. According to paragraph 2, Platinum members can …
A. enter the park anytime.
B. stay in the park after closing hours.
C. bring an unlimited number of guests for free.
D. none of the above
3. Which word can replace “more economical” in paragraph 3?
A. thrifty
B. extravagant
C. costly
D. cheaper
4. What did the student mentioned in paragraph 3 enjoy about studying at Disneyland, and why?
5. According to paragraph 8, why are some park visitors annoyed with the students?
6. Combine the sentences using the conjunction provided. (2 marks)
(i) Students want to make the most of their day studying at Disneyland. They have to find locations equipped with power outlets.
In order for ...
(ii) Students want to study more seriously. They have to find a quiet place to focus.
In order for ...
Answers
1. Disneyland
2. A
3. D
4. She enjoyed the nightly fireworks display because it instilled a sense of hope in her, even amid uncertainties about the outcome of her studies.
5. because the students occupy tables all day long, making it difficult for visitors to find a seat to dine or rest (accept all similar answers)
6. (i) In order for students to make the most of their day studying at Disneyland, they have to find locations equipped with power outlets.
(ii) In order for students to study more seriously, they have to find a quiet place to focus.