Inheritance Tax

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Type: Vocabulary
Originally published on September 20, 2020 and last updated on July 13, 2023

The topic of inheritance tax provides a valuable conversation topic for English learners, facilitating language improvement in multiple ways. Engaging in discussions about this subject allows learners to expand their vocabulary related to taxation, wealth and economics. Additionally, exploring the intricacies of inheritance tax prompts learners to develop critical thinking skills as they analyse its implications on wealth distribution, social equality and economic policies.

Discussing inheritance tax fosters the ability to express opinions, engage in debates and enhances overall communication skills, empowering learners to navigate complex societal issues with confidence and clarity.

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 Inheritance Tax

Inheritance tax, also known as estate tax or death duty, is a subject that sparks interest and debate worldwide. It refers to the tax imposed on the transfer of assets and wealth from a deceased person to their heirs. This tax is often seen as a means of redistributing wealth and addressing income inequality. However, discussions surrounding inheritance tax delve into various aspects, such as tax thresholds, exemptions, fairness and its impact on family businesses and intergenerational wealth.

Exploring the topic of inheritance tax unveils complex fiscal policies and raises thought-provoking questions about wealth distribution and societal values.

Useful Vocabulary

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

  • inheritance (noun)
  • inherit (verb)
  • death (noun)
  • dead (adjective)
  • die (verb)
  • tax (noun)
  • allowance (noun)

Conversation Questions

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  • What is your understanding of inheritance tax? Can you explain how it works in your country?
  • Do you think inheritance tax is a fair way to distribute wealth? Why or why not?
  • What are some potential benefits or drawbacks of implementing inheritance tax?
  • Should inheritance tax rates be higher or lower? Why?
  • Should there be different tax rates based on the value of the inherited assets? Why or why not?
  • How does inheritance tax affect families and individuals?
  • Do you think inheritance tax encourages or discourages economic growth and entrepreneurship?
  • Should inheritance tax be abolished altogether and replaced with a different wealth distribution method?
  • Should inheritance tax be abolished completely? Why or why not?
  • If inheritance tax rates were significantly reduced, how do you think it would impact wealth distribution in society?
  • Should family businesses be exempt from inheritance tax to protect their continuity?
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.