Vocabulary:
- parameters – any factor that defines a system and determines (or limits) its performance
In handling this situation, we have to follow the parameters set by the company. - biological – related by blood
He is my biological father. - desolate – bleak/gloomy
Stories about war, hunger and poverty make me feel desolate.
Stork’s cradle was established in May 2006 at Jikei Hospital in Kumamoto city. It is a baby deposit box where women having unwanted or unexpected pregnancies can safely leave their children. Ten years after it was established, Jikei hospital has become known for taking care of abandoned babies and has plans to expand their services by allowing desperate women to give birth anonymously. The hospital will discuss the parameters of the additional service to Kumamoto city officials.
Based on Germany’s “Babyklappe”, the current system of Stork’s cradle denies the child an opportunity to meet his or her biological mother. The system has gained both praise and criticsm because of this. The new system will let a pregnant woman give birth anonymously, for the safety of both mother and child, then the child will be adopted. The mother will present her identity in a sealed document, which can only be opened once the child has reached a certain age. Jikei hospital states that this system is their response to the desolate situation pregnant women face.
True or False:
- Stork’s cradle was established in 2006.
- Jikei hospital is known for taking care of abandoned babies.
- Stork’s cradle is based on Germany’s “Kinderland.”
- The new system will keep the mother’s identity even if the child has reached a certain age.
- After being born, the child will be abandoned by Stork’s Cradle.
Express your opinion:
- What are your thoughts on Stork’s Cradle?
- Do you think the system will work in other countries? Please explain your answer.
- Why do you think some pregnant women resort to this kind of service?
- Do you think that this system will decrease the need for abortion? Please explain your answer.
- How do you think will the government respond to the needs of neglected children?
Defend your argument:
- Sending babies to the Stork’s cradle or Babyklappe system tolerates insensitivity.
- Mothers resorting to the Stork’s cradle or Babyklappe system are more likely to be ostracized.
- “A mother is a child’s first looking glass into the world” – Richard E. Goodrich