Topic 40 想获得的奖

1. In China, what rewards do children often get from school?
Children often get small rewards, like stickers, pencils, or notebooks, when they do well in school. It’s been so long since I was a young student. But I remember that when we did really well on a test, my primary school teachers usually gave us a red flower sticker. It made us so happy. Sometimes children also get special privileges357. For example, when you did well in school, you could have less homework than other students.

2. Should children be given rewards? What are the disadvantages of it?
Yes, children should be given rewards, within reason358. It’s not a bad thing to treat them359 when they do something well. For example, if they achieve good grades, it’s nice to give them some kind of present. But then their motivations might not be so great anymore. If they only do things to get rewards,they may become very greedy.

3. Should parents push their children to get prizes?
I don’t think so. I mean, it’s nice to give their children a sense of ambition360. It’s not good to have a lazy kid who doesn’t care about doing well. But if parents push their kids too hard, they might develop anxiety and not want to do work at all. So I suppose that parents should find a healthy balance.

4. What kinds of rewards do companies often offer to their outstanding employees?
I think companies usually give their employees raises361 when they do well. Money does a good job of motivating employees. After all, almost everyone works for money. Some companies also give their outstanding employees paid vacation time362 or even a promotion363. Those are also good ways to recognize employees’ achievements and efforts.

5. What are the advantages of giving rewards to employees?
One advantage is that they’ll probably work harder. If they know they can get a special reward, they’ll work hard to get it. After all, everyone likes getting something nice. Another advantage is that they’ll feel appreciated. It feels good to be recognized for the work you do364. When employees are happy, they are usually more productive.

6. Other than money, what can motivate employees to be more active at work? What other ways can make people work harder?
Well, there are lots of other ways to motivate employees. For example, vacation time is a good way to get employees working harder. After all, everyone likes holidays. Besides, you can give them positive feedback. Having that encouragement can make them more productive. Plus, you can also make their work environment very welcoming365. People work well when they’re comfortable.

357 get special privileges：获得特权
358 within reason：适度的，合理的
359 treat them: 犒劳一下他们，奖励一下他们
360 a sense of ambition：灌输追求理想和目标的意识
361 give their employees raises：给员工加薪
362 paid vacation time：带薪假期
363 a promotion: 升职
364 be recognized for the work you do：自己所做的工作被认可
365 welcoming: 温暖友好的