Interviews

High-intermediate

In what ways do hairstyles, including unconventional colors, contribute to individual self-expression and identity?

Here are some words and expressions that appear in the video:

be a pain (in the neck) (expression): annoying or difficult to deal with, troublesome
– Washing and drying long hair can sometimes be a real pain.

compliment (noun): an expression of praise, (verb): politely congratulate or praise
– I received several compliments on my new hairstyle.
– My boss complimented everyone on their presentations at the conference.

Now, watch the interview and answer the comprehension questions. You can also turn on the automatically-generated captions for the video once you start it.

Randall: In this video, Aubrey, Let’s talk about hairstyles, and when people watch the video they see you with blue hair. Of course, people enjoy different types of hairstyles. It represents many things about them and, uh, their preferences. What about you?

Aubrey: Yeah, so I’ve always wanted to have blue hair and I’ve done it before in the past, you know, it just feels like me. Um, one thing to know about, though, if you’re going to dye your hair a fashion color or, you know, a crayon color, uh, is that it is a pain to maintain. Right. Because it is going to wash out when you wash it. And there are different ways you can maintain it, like with color depositing conditioners. Um, it’s expensive to get it dyed like this if you get it done professionally, and you do have to go in and get it touched up, but I think it’s worth it. Blue is my favorite color. It’s fun. I get a lot of compliments. I just . . . I just love having this hair color.

Randall: Great. Thanks for sharing that.

Easy:

1. Why did Aubrey choose to dye her hair blue?
2. How does Aubrey feel about having blue hair?

Intermediate:

1. What is one way to maintain a fashion hair color like blue?
2. What are some challenges associated with maintaining a fashion hair color?
3. How does Aubrey justify the expense and effort required to maintain her blue hair?
4. How does Aubrey respond to compliments she receives for her blue hair?

Advanced:

1. How might societal perceptions of unconventional hairstyles influence individuals’ decisions to experiment with their own hair?
2. Can the choice of a fashion hair color be seen as a form of personal empowerment and rebellion against societal norms? Discuss with reference to Aubrey’s experiences.

The following activities deal with related topics to give you additional language practice.

• Just a Haircut, Please!