PARLIAMENT

Welcome to our "parliamentary week"...
This week will be almost entirely dedicated to 'A day in the life of a demcracy'...
Yes, let's see how democracy works by looking into one of its pillars: the Parliament.


Since it is not that easy to go to London we'll have to do with BBC's DEMOCRACY LIVE to pay a visit to the House of Commons. You can do it any time you please, comfortably sitting at home. Together, on Monday morning,we will listen to the Queen's speech...

As for the Portuguese Parliament, next Wednesday, take a pen and a note pad (remember, your cell phone is not allowed in) and keep your eyes and ears wide open (but your mouth zipped) while we listen to our MPs. Check the agenda for Wednesday, 25th  here.

Our focus in either case will be:
- The 'House of Lords' & The 'House of Commons' and the Portuguese Hemiciclo. The buildings, the 'rituals' and procedures. Differences and similarities between the two parliaments. Be ready to describe and discuss.

- The Speakers - the Speeches - the Audience: Purpose of speeches; main arguments and theses. Language markers/features. Impact of speeches.
- Overall impressions - the ambience, the importance or relevance of the debate and the speeches, the background work that underlies what we can see and hear.
Beware of your own assumptions...be ready to change your lenses now and then!

I hope you'll have a good time :-)