Real or Fake #30

(1) Read the story. (2) Tell the story in your own words. (3) Ask the questions.
Furniture Toss
In the Hillbrow district of Johannesburg, New Year’s Eve isn’t just about fireworks—it’s about the “Furniture Toss.” To symbolize “out with the old, in with the new,” residents have been known to throw everything from fridges and TVs to couches, beds, and other household items from their windows and balconies. In 2003, 46 pedestrians were struck by falling furniture and other objects. The practice became so dangerous that South African police began patrolling the streets in armored vehicles and helicopters, removing “appliance caches” before they could hit the pavement.

These days, there’s far less chance of seeing a fridge plummet from a 12th-story apartment, but the tradition remains well known. Local residents say it’s a literal way of clearing out the old to make room for the new.
Comprehension Questions
  1. Why are the items tossed out the window?
  2. Name 3 items that might get tossed.
  3. How many people were hit by objects in 2003?
Discussion Questions
  1. Have you ever tossed anything out the window?
  2. What do you do with old furniture and appliances?
  3. What is one thing that you should probably throw away?
  4. What new thing are you most looking forward to?
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