Legality of Cannabis

green cannabis plant close-up photography
Type: Vocabulary
Originally published on September 23, 2020 and last updated on July 13, 2023

Talking about the legality of cannabis serves as an engaging conversation topic for English learners, providing an opportunity to enhance language skills while exploring cultural, legal and ethical dimensions. Discussing the legality of cannabis allows learners to practice expressing opinions, presenting arguments and using vocabulary related to law, health and societal issues. It encourages critical thinking, as learners consider the impact of legalisation on public health, crime rates and government revenue.

Engaging in such conversations helps learners develop fluency, broaden their knowledge and engage in meaningful discussions relevant to current global trends and social attitudes.

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 Legality of Cannabis

The legality of cannabis has been a highly debated and evolving topic worldwide. Cannabis, also known as marijuana or weed, has been traditionally stigmatized as an illicit substance. However, in recent years, attitudes and laws surrounding cannabis have shifted, with various countries and states legalizing its use for medical and/or recreational purposes.

This complex and multifaceted issue raises questions about the potential benefits, risks, regulation and social implications associated with cannabis. Understanding the legality of cannabis provides an opportunity to explore the intersection of law, health, economics and social attitudes, sparking thought-provoking discussions on a global scale.

Useful Vocabulary

Try and use the following vocabulary when answering the question. Click to look up the definition in the dictionary

  • legal (adjective)
  • benefit (noun)
  • effect (noun)
  • illegal (adjective)
  • recreational (adjective)
  • legalise (verb)
  • detrimental (adjective)
  • in favour of (idiom)

Conversation Questions

My Image
  • Is cannabis illegal where you live?
  • Do you think there are benefits of cannabis? If yes, what?
  • What do you think the negative effects of cannabis use are?
  • What are your thoughts on the legalization of cannabis for medical purposes?
  • Are there any medical conditions or symptoms for which cannabis should be legalized?
  • Should cannabis be legalised for recreational use worldwide?
  • What are some potential challenges or concerns associated with the legalisation of cannabis?
  • How do cultural attitudes and beliefs influence the legality of cannabis in different countries?
  • Should cannabis be regulated similarly to alcohol and tobacco products?
  • Do you think the legalization of cannabis can contribute to reducing the criminalization of drug use?
  • Does the legalisation of cannabis lead to increased use among young people?
Gregory
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.