The school prom is a big event in the American school year. It´s a big party for graduating high school students. It´s the last party before university and takes place after all your exams. Now there are junior proms for leaving elementary school, too. American students start planning the event the year before and spend a lot of time and money on this event.

Prom is short in English for the word ‘promenade’ — a noun that means to show yourself in a public place, to meet or be seen by others — American high school proms are just that: an occasion to get dressed up, socialize with your best friends and dance the night away.

Prom was born in the United States more than 100 years ago, and has spread to other parts of the world. In America, it has become an industry similar to the wedding business. 

Prom Preparations

During the year, an elected prom committee meets up to discuss what the prom will be like. Students discuss the theme, the venue, the music, DJs, and security. Some committees raise money for the prom by having auctions or talent shows. Tickets cost around USD 50 per couple and around USD 100 if you want dinner. Girls plan what they’re going to wear months before, and can spend hundreds of dollars on hairdressers, shoes, and make-up. Guys usually buy tuxedos, or rent them.

Read the facts about American proms. What do you think?

Many schools have a band, a DJ and a restaurant.

You can´t wear jeans and trainers to the prom.

The girls must wear ball gowns.

The boys must wear a tuxedo.

Students must pay for the ticket.

The boys must give flowers to the girls!

Some students go to the prom in a limousine!

Project

Imagine you are going to have a party to celebrate the end of the school year with a prom. Design prom tickets with all the details of your prom including times and dates, the theme, dress code etc.

Matilda Blahová